Forza Horizon 6 Early Build Leak Triggers Developer Crackdown: Hardware Bans Threatened

An early build of Forza Horizon 6 leaked online over the weekend, allowing some players to access the game weeks ahead of its official launch. The full release is scheduled for May 19, with the Premium Edition available starting May 15.

Gameplay footage has already surfaced on platforms like YouTube and Twitch, prompting the developers to take action. The leak appears to stem from a 155 GB unencrypted early access review build that appeared on SteamDB.

How Did the Leak Happen?

Playground Games, the developer behind Forza Horizon 6, confirmed that the leak was not due to a pre-load issue. The company suspects a content creator or reviewer with early access may have broken embargo terms, making the build publicly accessible.

Developer Response: Strict Enforcement Ahead

"We are taking strict enforcement action against any individuals found accessing this build including franchise-wide and hardware bans. We encourage fans to sit tight for the game’s release on May 19."

The full game is now reportedly circulating on piracy sites. Interestingly, some players claim they gained access simply by pre-ordering the game. The individual who first cracked the build stated that the files were unencrypted, sparking a debate over accountability.

Will Players Face Bans for Early Access?

Playground Games has warned that it may issue bans to players who accessed the leaked build. Some players argue they should not be penalized, claiming the leak was the studio’s responsibility. However, those who pirated the game have no grounds for complaint.

Players are advised to wait for the official release—whether on May 15 (Premium Edition) or May 19 (standard edition)—to avoid potential enforcement actions.