Well, grab the most obnoxiously over-the-top energy drink and strap in for a joyride, because the latest scoop on the sixth chapter of that racing extravaganza has just screeched into the spotlight thanks to today’s Xbox Developer Direct!
Welcome to Japan: No Passport Required!
Forget everything that was known about previous races; this time, get ready to don a virtual tourist hat because players will kick off their joyride in Japan, rather than diving headfirst into the Horizon Festival. That means no awkward family reunions at the festival booth for the first time—just some thrilling sightseeing before aiming for the elite racing club.
The Countdown to Racing Royalty
Mark those calendars! The official release date has been confirmed for May 19, with a Premium Edition available earlier for those who can’t help themselves—early access starts on May 15. So, what’s two days when you’re ready to leap into high-speed action? Apparently, a whole lot for some.
Wristbands Are the New Currency
Once the virtual passport is stamped, it’s time to earn some bling! Players will have to complete Showcases and tackle the all-new Horizon Rush obstacle course just to get their hands on some wristbands. Earn that coveted gold wristband, and voilà, a secret passage to the legendary Legend Island awaits. Bring on those exclusive challenges and races—because who wouldn’t want a taste of racing royalty?
Collector’s Paradise
For wheel enthusiasts, a smorgasbord of over 550 cars awaits at launch. And for those not content with just the basics, additional ones will trickle in through downloadable content because who doesn’t love a good post-launch esperaration? New features also allow players to rummage through neighborhoods, searching for rare aftermarket cars parked where they shouldn’t be—talk about stealing the spotlight, right?
Tokyo: A Playground for Speed Demons
The game boasts a Tokyo region that dwarfs anything Playground Games has concocted in the past, stretching out five times larger. Various districts mean players can finally get that “I’m definitely lost” feeling during high-speed chases!
The Mansion Life Awaits!
For those who like their virtual real estate, cozy eight-player houses can be purchased, serving as Fast Travel points and garages. But that’s not all! An absolutely spectacular Estate awaits, tucked away in the Japanese countryside with enough land to do whatever—unless it involves actual building permits, then good luck with that. Imagining a mountain hideaway or a personal race track would be fun—just don’t expect real-world construction equipment to come along for the ride.
As the Xbox description cheekily puts it, “It’s a flat area where you can build anything—within reason, of course, because in-game currency isn’t magic like that!”
Flex Those Customization Muscles!
Get ready for Car Meets at three fabulous locations where customization comes alive. Whether it’s the Horizon Festival, The Alps, or Daikoku—a place famous for actual car meets—users can show off their personalized rides and even download other players’ stunning paint jobs. Who needs a fancy car show when the competition is just a download away?
It’s Not Just Xbox Anymore
And in a twist that threw everyone for a loop, there’s more! Microsoft teased that not only will it launch on Xbox consoles and PC—but, drumroll please—it’s headed for the PlayStation 5 later in 2026. Try not to start a virtual riot, but it seems like everyone’s invited to this parking lot party!
