Forza Horizon 6 – Everything You Need to Know Before It Hits

If you’ve been counting down to the next big open‑world racing game, you’re in the right place. Forza Horizon 6 promises bigger maps, sharper graphics, and a ton of new ways to race. Below you’ll find the most useful info – from release dates to quick‑start tips – so you can hit the road with confidence.

When is Forza Horizon 6 arriving?

The official launch window is set for early 2026, with a soft‑launch on select platforms expected in late 2025. Microsoft has confirmed that the game will be available on Xbox Series X|S and PC via the Xbox Game Pass. If you’re already a Game Pass subscriber, you’ll get the title the day it drops, no extra charge.

What’s new in the open world?

Forza Horizon 6 expands the map to cover three distinct regions: a sun‑kissed coastline, a rugged mountain range, and a sprawling desert. Each zone has its own dynamic weather, which can change mid‑race and affect handling. The game also introduces a live‑event system that streams community challenges in real time, meaning there’s always something fresh to try.

One of the biggest upgrades is the new “Crew Customizer.” You can design your own club livery, choose a crew name, and even set up private leaderboards. This makes multiplayer feel more personal, and you can invite friends to race or just cruise together.

Cars get a major visual overhaul. Ray tracing now works on the entire environment, giving reflections that look almost photographic. The sound team has recorded over 200 real‑world engine notes, so each car feels distinct when you hit the throttle.

Quick‑start tips for new players

1. Pick the right car early. The game’s progression rewards you with performance points that you can spend on upgrades. Starting with a balanced car – like the 2025 Toyota GR Supra – gives you enough power to tackle early challenges while you learn the handling quirks of each region.

2. Master weather changes. Rain makes the desert slick and the coastline slippery. Spend a few minutes in the practice mode to get a feel for how braking distances shift. A slight adjustment to your braking line can mean the difference between a perfect drift and a spin.

3. Use the map’s shortcuts. Each region hides hidden paths that cut travel time by up to 30%. Look for a subtle trail of dust or a faded signpost – those are often clues to a shortcut.

4. Join a crew early. Crews give you extra XP for group events and often share insider tips on hidden collectibles. If you’re playing solo, the AI‑guided “Rookie Crew” will still hand out daily challenges to keep you earning.

5. Keep an eye on the live‑event calendar. Special races, like “Nighttime Neon Run,” only appear for a few hours. Setting a reminder on your phone ensures you don’t miss the chance to earn exclusive liveries.

Finally, don’t forget to explore for collectibles. There are over 500 hidden items across the three zones – each one unlocks a unique visual upgrade or a small boost of in‑game currency. The hunt adds a nice break from the high‑speed action and rewards curiosity.

With these basics in place, you’ll be ready to dive into Forza Horizon 6 as soon as it launches. Keep an eye on official channels for patch notes and community events, and remember that the best races are the ones you share with friends.