Forza Horizon 6 Available Today With XBOX Game Pass, Here's What You Can Expect

After years of rumors, teases, and massive leaks, Forza Horizon 6 is finally here. Early Access went live for Premium Edition owners last week, while everyone else officially jumps into Horizon Japan starting today. Not to forget, the game has also launched day one of Xbox Game Pass today.

Playground Games has now shared a detailed breakdown explaining how players’ first few hours in Horizon Japan will actually work. And honestly, it might be the most compelling Horizon opening Playground has ever built.

Forza Horizon 6 throws players straight into Horizon Japan

The game starts with a massive cinematic-style Prologue that rapidly introduces several regions across Japan. Players first take control of a 2024 Nissan GT-R Nismo while speeding through Hokubu’s countryside. From there, things quickly escalate into snowy off-road racing, Touge mountain roads, rocket launches, and finally a massive convoy sequence featuring the game’s cover car, the 2025 GR GT Prototype.

Once the intro wraps up, the actual progression system begins. Players create their character, adjust assists, and then meet Mei and Jordy before entering the Horizon Festival itself. Interestingly, Playground is heavily leaning into player freedom this time around.

Your first starter car choice includes the 1989 Nissan Silvia K’s, 1994 Toyota Celica GT-Four ST205, or a 1970 GMC Jimmy. However, all three eventually get added to your garage anyway.

Speaking of garages, Forza Horizon 6 appears to massively expand customization. Players can now fully design personal garages with furniture, posters, structures, lighting, and downloadable layouts from other users. The new Estate system also lets players permanently build structures directly into the open world for friends to visit.

Playground also confirmed Treasure Cars, Aftermarket Cars, returning Barn Finds, Touge Battles, Horizon Play multiplayer, and Festival Playlist events right from launch.

Horizon Japan appears to be Playground’s biggest sandbox yet

Forza Horizon 6 appears to be doubling down on player creativity and long-term progression instead of simply focusing on visuals alone. Interestingly, progression is now linked to Wristbands and Discover Japan stamps. Higher-level events only unlock once players continue exploring regions, races, collectibles, and side activities throughout the map. Eventually, earning the Golden Wristband grants access to the exclusive Legend Island area and a brand-new Goliath race.

Needless to say, Playground clearly wants Horizon Japan to feel less like a racing game menu and more like a living automotive playground players continuously grow inside over time.