The announcement debuted at the Xbox Tokyo Game Show 2025, where the first teaser was revealed. The trailer included nods to previous entries and offered a brief glimpse of the open world Playground Games is crafting.
Why Japan? According to lead designer Don Arseta and cultural consultant Kyoko Yamashita, the choice felt natural. Fans have long wanted this setting, and the country dovetails perfectly with the series’ formula, combining tradition with modernity.
In Forza Horizon 6 players will explore vibrant Tokyo as well as picturesque rural and mountain regions:
- Neon-lit streets and towering skyscrapers of the capital — one of the most intricately realised locations in the series.
- Tranquil villages and Japan’s varied natural scenery.
While the map won’t be a literal replica of the nation, the team aims to capture the Horizon essence. Street sounds, architectural nuances and an atmosphere that shifts with time of day and season have all been carefully considered.
Seasonality will play a central role. Japan is renowned for striking seasonal contrasts — sweltering summers, snowy winters and springs of blooming sakura. These cycles will influence both visuals and the overall feel of the world. The game will also incorporate facets of local car culture, including drifting and tuning scenes.
To achieve authenticity, Playground Games conducted on-site research in Japan. As Yamashita notes, this made it possible to “convey not just the image, but the sense of place.” The developers studied spatial layouts, everyday routines and street soundscapes so players can truly feel immersed in a living city.
The studio describes the project as a tribute to both fans and Japan itself, which is why the announcement was made at the Tokyo Game Show — the country’s leading industry event. The developers promise more than a decorative postcard, aiming instead for a richly detailed, dynamic world.
Gameplay footage is scheduled for early 2026, suggesting a likely launch in the second half of the year.
Source: iXBT.games