The announcement took place at the Xbox Tokyo Game Show 2025, where the first teaser was shown. The video contained references to past installments and a brief look at the open world that Playground Games is working on.
Why Japan? According to lead designer Don Arceta and culture consultant Kyoko Yamashita, the decision was natural. Players have long awaited this setting, and the country itself perfectly matches the series' formula, combining tradition and modernity.
In Forza Horizon 6, players will visit vibrant Tokyo and picturesque rural and mountainous areas:
- Neon streets and skyscrapers of the capital - one of the most detailed locations in the series.
- Peaceful villages and natural landscapes of Japan.
Although the map will not be an exact copy of the country, the team strives to convey the core in the Horizon style. Street sounds, architectural details, and the atmosphere, which changes depending on the time of day and season, are taken into account.
Seasonality will once again be important. Japan is famous for the contrast of the seasons - hot summers, snowy winters, and spring with blooming sakura. These cycles will be reflected in both the visuals and the feeling of the world. Additionally, the game will include elements of local car culture: drifting and the cult of tuning.
For maximum authenticity, Playground Games went to Japan. As Yamashita notes, this allowed them to "convey not only the picture but also the feeling of the place." The developers studied the organization of space, everyday habits, and street sounds so that players could feel like they are in a real city.
The studio calls the project a dedication to fans and Japan itself. That's why the announcement was made at the Tokyo Game Show - the main event for the industry in the country. The developers promise not to limit themselves to a beautiful "postcard" but to show a detailed and vibrant world.
Gameplay footage will only be shown in early 2026, hinting at the game's release in the second half of the year.
