Forza Horizon 6 release date leaked for May 2026, set in Japan

We have been asking for it for years, and it looks like Playground Games is finally listening. Forza Horizon 6 is reportedly taking the festival to Japan, and thanks to a new leak, we might know exactly when we can start drifting through Tokyo. According to a report by Video Games Chronicle (VGC), the Forza Horizon 6 release date is targeting 19 May 2026.

The information comes from a Saudi-based X account, Xbox Infinite, which shared an image of what appears to be an in-game advertisement. While leaks should always be taken with a pinch of salt, VGC sources have indicated that this release window is accurate. If true, we are looking at a May 2026 launch on Xbox Series X|S and PC, with the usual day-one drop on Xbox Game Pass.

For gamers in the UAE, the source of the leak adds a bit of local flavour, but the real news is the confirmation of the Japan setting—something fans have wanted since the series left Colorado.

What the leak reveals

The leaked image specifically highlights the Forza Horizon 6 Premium Edition, which offers the standard four-day early access period we have come to expect from Xbox Game Studios titles. If the 19 May 2026 date holds, Premium Edition buyers will be playing as early as 15 May.

It is worth noting that Microsoft is hosting a Developer Direct on 22 January, where we expect official confirmation. This timing lines up with how the industry moves—leaks often precede major showcases. This follows a busy week for gaming news, including major restructuring at Ubisoft, so a big announcement from Xbox would shift the conversation back to games.

Japan: The setting we wanted

The leak corroborates previous reports that the festival is heading to Japan. The game will reportedly feature a mix of dense urban environments—specifically Tokyo City—and serene rural landscapes. This contrast is exactly what the series needs after the diverse but sometimes empty biomes of Mexico in Forza Horizon 5.

For PC players looking to capture those neon-lit Tokyo streets, you will want to ensure your rig is ready. With recent advancements in upscaling, like the latest Nvidia DLSS updates, we expect the game to look stunning even on slightly older hardware.

Editions and content

The leak provided a detailed breakdown of the Premium Edition. While we don't have official UAE pricing yet, we can estimate based on previous releases. Standard editions typically cost Dhs 279, while Premium bundles often land around Dhs 349-399.

Premium Edition contents:

• Early Access: Play 4 days early (from 15 May)
• VIP Membership: Double credits and exclusive bonuses
• Car Packs: Welcome Pack, Car Pass, Time Attack Car Pack
• Future Content: Italian Passion Car Pack and two expansions

The inclusion of an "Italian Passion" pack post-launch suggests a strong focus on Ferrari, Lamborghini, and Alfa Romeo, which fits perfectly with the car culture often associated with Japan's import scene.

Should you pre-order?

If you are a Game Pass subscriber, the Standard Edition will be included in your subscription. However, Microsoft usually offers a "Premium Add-Ons Bundle" for subscribers who want the early access and DLC without buying the full game—usually for about Dhs 170-190. This is often the best value route for Xbox players.

We will know more after the Developer Direct on 22 January. Until then, you can catch up on other gaming adaptations like the God of War show casting news while we wait for the engines to start.

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