Forza Horizon 6: Features, Early Access and Start Times — Here’s What to Know

May 4, 2026 - 15:32

The next entry in the open-world racing series is finally here. Forza Horizon 6 takes players to Japan, offering a massive map that stretches from the neon-lit streets of Tokyo to the winding roads of Mount Fuji and the coastal highways of Okinawa. This setting has been a long-time request from the community, and the developers have delivered a landscape that changes with the seasons in dramatic ways.

New gameplay features include a deep vehicle customization system that now allows for widebody kits, active aero adjustments, and engine swaps that affect handling in real time. A new "Drift Mode" has been added, complete with its own physics engine and scoring system, while a "Rally Expansion" is available at launch for those who prefer dirt and gravel roads. The Horizon Festival returns, but this time players can build their own festival sites, choosing which events to host and how to decorate the grounds.

For those eager to jump in early, the Premium Edition offers early access starting on March 6, 2025, at 12:00 AM local time. Standard edition players can join on March 9, 2025. The game is available on Xbox Series X|S and PC, with full cross-play support. Start times for the global rollout will vary by region, but players in North America can expect the servers to go live at 9:00 AM PT on the respective launch days. With a new setting, deeper customization, and fresh modes, Forza Horizon 6 looks to set a new standard for the franchise.