Hands-on: Forza Horizon 6 is on track to be another exceptional open-world racer

April 8, 2026 - 20:01

The highly anticipated next installment of the beloved open-world racing series, Forza Horizon, is shifting its vibrant festival to the shores of Japan. Early hands-on impressions suggest this change of scenery is a masterstroke, providing a breathtaking new canvas that pushes the series' visual fidelity to staggering new heights.

Playground Games is leveraging the diverse Japanese landscape to create its most dynamic and visually arresting world yet. Drivers can expect to weave through neon-drenched, rain-slicked city streets reminiscent of Tokyo's bustling districts, then carve through routes flanked by serene bamboo forests and ancient temples. The iconic silhouette of Mount Fuji provides a majestic backdrop, while winding mountain passes and scenic coastal roads promise unparalleled driving diversity.

This environmental variety isn't just for show; it's foundational to the Horizon experience. The shift in locale promises to influence every aspect of the game, from the curated soundtrack and festival atmosphere to the garages filled with Japan's most celebrated automotive icons. The detailed cityscapes and lush, vibrant countryside demonstrate a clear leap in environmental detail and lighting, setting a new benchmark for the series.

While the core tenets of celebration and freedom remain, the Japanese setting injects a fresh cultural energy. All indications are that the developers are using this new location not just as a backdrop, but as a core inspiration to refine their already exceptional formula, promising a rich and immersive racing playground that feels both familiar and thrillingly new.