Overview

• Microsoft unveiled the next Horizon entry during Tokyo Game Show with a brief teaser, and Playground Games says fuller details and gameplay will arrive in early 2026.
• Developers describe Japan as the series’ biggest and most densely packed map to date, with Tokyo City called its most ambitious urban environment.
• Seasonal systems will return and are designed to shift the world’s tone, activity, and sound across urban Tokyo, rural regions, and mountain routes.
• Playground engaged cultural consultant Kyoko Yamashita early to guide authentic, respectful representation of everyday Japanese culture and detail.
• The reveal followed an early leak when an official Forza Horizon Instagram ad went live ahead of the TGS stream, confirming the Japan setting.