Playground Games has come a long way since I first visited in 2014. Back then, the studio was sharing space with other businesses. Fast forward to 2026, and they’ve expanded to three buildings in Leamington Spa, all dedicated to Forza Horizon. The original building is now fully focused on the development of Forza Horizon 6.
Forza Horizon 6 takes place in Japan, offering the largest and most layered map yet. Playground Games’ version of Tokyo City is set to be five times bigger than the urban area in Forza Horizon 5. Seeing it come to life is thrilling. The cover car, a bright red GR GT, glides through the city, showcasing new features like auto-drive for easier navigation. This allows players to save energy for more intense race events.
The game isn’t a carbon copy of Japan but an imaginative mashup, capturing the essence of various locations. Art director Don Arceta emphasizes that they wanted to maintain authenticity while providing playful surprises. The setting is alive with cherry blossom trees, ensuring spring feels special rather than overwhelming.
Design director Torben Ellert notes that choosing Japan for the setting was a big decision. “This was the first time we felt ready to take a shot at it,” he shares. The team wanted to push boundaries, introducing new features rather than relying solely on the location itself.
Tokyo City is not just about speed—it demands a different driving style. Ellert notes that navigating the city involves intricate technical driving, contrasting with the more open routes in previous games. As a major hub, Tokyo offers a variety of experiences. The diverse architecture and vibrant streets are crafted with considerable detail, ensuring authenticity.
The city is divided into several districts: suburbs, terminals, an industrial area, and downtown. Each has its own flair, with specific areas tailored for racing events. The suburbs offer a peaceful vibe, while the dockyard promises exciting stunts and drifting.
The developers invested significantly in creating the city’s aesthetics. For instance, they introduced detailed telegraph pole technology to capture the unique urban environment authentically.
Foreseeing challenges, the team crafted a mix of environments. Unlike past games, where biomes were separated, Forza Horizon 6 adopts a more integrated approach. Regions transition smoothly from urban settings to natural landscapes, keeping the map cohesive.
With excitement building around Forza Horizon 6, fans are eager to explore the rich landscapes and diverse biomes. For many, this game represents a chance to vicariously experience Japan through the immersive world that Playground Games has created.
Ellert and Arceta are particularly eager to understand how players perceive their crafted environments. They hope that both those familiar with Japan and newcomers will find something to resonate with.
For more on Forza Horizon 6, including gameplay features and customization options, stay tuned to IGN.
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