A Vibrant New Setting
Forza Horizon 6's new map, set in Japan, stands out as the best in the series so far. This vibrant landscape brings a fresh feel to the franchise, showcasing a condensed version of Tokyo that sprawls like no previous urban center in a Forza game.
During a recent preview, I explored 84 of the map's 673 roads and crashed into 7 of 200 XP boards. The sheer volume of content is undeniably impressive, with over 550 cars available at launch. The mapping of Tokyo integrates narrow, winding lanes with wide arterial roads, allowing for a diverse driving experience.
Urban and Rural Blend
The cityscape captures Tokyo's essence, featuring a mix of narrow streets and expansive highways surrounded by bustling districts. As I navigated the streets, I was constantly rewarded with XP for my driving antics—whether crashing or narrowly avoiding obstacles.
Playground Games has done an admirable job bringing Tokyo to life, adding details like EV charging stations and busy pedestrian lanes. The iconic Shuto Expressway, adorned with neon lights, offers a surreal driving experience that immerses players in the heart of Tokyo.
Exploring the Countryside
However, the real appeal may lie in Japan's countryside, where players can unleash their cars' full potential. The Hokubu region is a standout, with flat rice fields framed by lush mountains and dotted with the elevated tracks of the famous bullet train.