Forza Horizon 6 offers Game Pass its next essential title.

      Microsoft’s new open-world racing game premieres on Game Pass today, providing subscribers with a significant first-party title that has a large built-in audience.

      Forza Horizon 6 is now accessible via Game Pass, marking it as one of Microsoft's key additions this month. The game is available on cloud, Xbox Series X/S, handheld devices, and PC for those with Game Pass Ultimate and PC Game Pass subscriptions. This broader reach offers Forza Horizon 6 a more extensive audience than typical console launches, with Microsoft expanding one of its major franchises across multiple screens that it now considers part of its Xbox ecosystem.

      Japan is a standout feature of this installment. Xbox promotes it as the most extensive driving experience in the series to date, and the Japanese backdrop provides the game with a distinctive identity even before players select a vehicle.

      The uniqueness of Japan

      Forza Horizon 6 transports the series to Japan, a location long desired by fans. The map gives the game a distinct character right from launch, showcasing everything from busy city roads to mountainous pathways and scenic rural drives.

      The game utilizes dynamic seasons and weather changes, vibrant neon streets, and features over 550 real-life cars. This blend results in a Game Pass release that's expansive, visually striking, and easy to market amid a busy month of new games.

      Many titles cycle through the catalog, but a Forza set in Japan can encapsulate the fantasy in a single image.

      Who can access it today

      Access is available through Game Pass Ultimate and PC Game Pass, not all tiers offered by Microsoft. Players should carefully check their subscription plans in the app to confirm whether Forza Horizon 6 is included.

      Microsoft is also promoting the game for play beyond just traditional consoles. With cloud functionality and portable availability, this title showcases a series that previously seemed tailored for big screens and controllers.

      For Microsoft, this first-party day-one release solidifies the May lineup. For subscribers, it’s a straightforward opportunity to assess whether their current plan offers the titles they genuinely want to experience.

      What to consider before downloading

      Although Forza Horizon 6 is the primary draw on Game Pass today, it’s important to consider where you will be playing it. Console gamers need an Xbox Series X/S, while PC users need either PC Game Pass or Ultimate.

      If you already have Game Pass Ultimate or PC Game Pass, this should be your top priority for downloading. For those without a subscription, it’s a sensible option for gamers looking to try a major first-party racer before committing to a full purchase.