Playground Games provided the first extended look at Forza Horizon 6 during the latest Xbox Developer Direct, revealing gameplay, progression changes, expanded customisation and a possible May launch window.

The campaign begins differently from recent entries, with players arriving as a tourist who joins the Horizon festival and climbs the ranks, rather than arriving as an established celebrity. The established wristband progression remains, but Horizon 6 introduces a new Collection Journal system. Inspired by Japanese stamp collecting, the journal lets players build a digital collection of mementos gathered while exploring, including photos of murals, landmarks and scenic sights.

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Japan serves as the series’ largest map to date. Tokyo is the biggest city ever featured in the franchise and contains multiple districts for players to cruise through, with recognisable locations such as Shibuya Crossing, Tokyo Tower and Ginko Avenue. Playground Games emphasised topographical fidelity, aiming to represent countryside, mountains and urban streets with as much authenticity as possible. The seasonal cycle returns, shifting regions from winter to spring and beyond.

Japanese car culture is a major focus. Cars receive deeper customisation options and the roster has been overhauled for improved balance. Playground Games said more vehicles will be available at launch than in any previous entry, and new aftermarket cars — including rare or unique models — will be unlockable at favourable prices.

Forza Horizon 6’s cover cars were revealed as the 2025 GR GT Prototype and the 2025 Toyota Land Cruiser. Building and creation features have been expanded: structures can be built from any location and building is now fully multiplayer, enabling friends to collaborate on creations. Player houses return as unlockable hubs for vehicle storage and display.

The full reveal of these features took place during Xbox Developer Direct, with Playground Games outlining the new systems and world design ahead of the game’s expected release period in May.

Report via Game Informer.