Players will once again be driving on the left side of the road this May with the release of Forza Horizon 6. Playground Games has revealed more details about the upcoming title, set in Japan, including a revamped campaign structure designed to offer players a more engaging experience beyond simply showcasing impressive graphics and speedy driving.
Responding to player feedback, Playground Games is introducing a new system of “wristbands” that unlock additional activities and better vehicles, as detailed in a recent post on Forza.net. Unlike previous installments where players commence as established racing professionals, Forza Horizon 6 casts players as tourists with aspirations of joining the Horizon Festival.
“To enter the Horizon Festival, you must complete Horizon Qualifiers and then Horizon Invitational, earning your first wristband,” the developers explained. “In Forza Horizon 6, Festival races are a curated experience, requiring you to participate with a specific set of cars in Road, Dirt, and Cross Country events. With each new wristband earned, you’ll be invited to compete in more events across Japan, and as you rise through the ranks of the Horizon Festival, these races will have car themes – challenging you to master faster and more exciting vehicles. By completing Festival events, as well as activities like PR stunts and skills, you’ll progress towards your next wristband.”
The game will feature a variety of activities beyond racing, including opportunities for exploration and side quests. Players can engage in sightseeing, collect stamps by visiting iconic locations, and even take on delivery jobs.
“Whether you’re taking photos whereas driving around the roads of Japan, delivering food as a side hustle, collecting new cars, or playing through Horizon Stories, you’ll always be making progress towards your next stamp,” developers stated. “As part of Discover Japan, you can also compete in Touge Battles and exciting street races at night, the perfect place to drive cars you might not be able to employ in Festival Events yet.”
Collecting stamps isn’t just for completionists; it also unlocks practical benefits within the game. “As you collect stamps for your collection book, you’ll unlock new player homes around Japan with customizable garages you can purchase, as well as rumors about barn finds and The Estate – a mountain valley where you can build and decorate directly in the open world.”
Forza Horizon 6 is scheduled to launch on May 19 for PC and Xbox Series S/X, and will be included with Game Pass. Players who purchase a more expensive edition will gain early access four days prior. The title is also slated for a later release on PlayStation 5 in 2026. This latest installment in the popular racing franchise promises to be the most feature-rich yet, signaling a continued push for immersive open-world gaming experiences.
