Leaked Forza Horizon 6 preview addresses gameplay concerns ahead of release date

Anticipation is high as Microsoft prepares to ship its latest open-world racing game. At least one hands-on Forza Horizon 6 preview will go live on April 8th. However, a YouTuber with an Xbox Series X build has already posted his comments. Fans may find that gameplay issues identified in trailers don’t seem to be problematic.

Not surprisingly, the video with the impressions is now offline. Still, Redditors summarized the broadcaster’s experiences in detail. They touch on performance, the density of the Japanese location, and difficulty.

The early code includes one hour of progression, but then racers can explore Tokyo and its surroundings. A much-discussed IGN video depicted barren streets devoid of other cars. Microsoft reassured followers that on the Forza Horizon 6 release date, the racing game would feature a more lively atmosphere. That appears to be the case, as the leaker spotted plenty of traffic and activity.

Does Forza Horizon 6 show Japan in all its glory?

The metropolis is also massive, with the YouTuber claiming it’s five times larger than the Guanajuato map from Forza Horizon 5. If the preview is accurate, players should expect to cruise past numerous identifiable buildings. That said, the playtest version is limited to 4K/30 fps. Series X owners will have an option for a 60fps performance mode, which will likely degrade image clarity somewhat.

Developers assured audiences that their open-world game would offer a sense of progression. Some fans were skeptical, since in prior titles it was easy to collect cars and complete events. While the preview build is an introduction, initial races could pose a greater challenge. Noting no wheel spins yet, the player struggled to finish in the top three in one of the first competitions.

Gamers will hear more opinions on April 8th, but the YouTuber came away impressed. He labeled Forza Horizon 6 as the “most beautiful game he's seen” with addictive gameplay. Sadly, while the title debuts on May 19th on Xbox and PC, PS5 loyalists will need to wait until later in 2026.