Forza Horizon 6 continues to dominate gaming charts, even while locked behind a $120 early access fee. The game has already set new franchise records, proving its massive appeal before its full release on May 19.
According to SteamDB, Forza Horizon 6 reached over 170,000 concurrent players during early access. This figure is more than double the peak player count of Forza Horizon 5 at full launch, highlighting the game’s unprecedented demand. These numbers reflect only players who purchased the early access edition, leaving room for even greater growth when the game becomes available to all on May 19.
The game’s aesthetics have been widely praised, capturing the essence of mid-2000s racing games while delivering modern visuals. Forza Horizon 6 has earned a 92 average score, making it the best-reviewed game of 2026 so far.
Why Is Forza Horizon 6 So Popular?
Forza Horizon games have long been celebrated for their:
- Stunning graphics
- Responsive handling
- Extensive car customization
- Open-world maps
- Diverse in-game activities
However, the game’s setting in Japan plays a significant role in its success. Japan remains one of the most romanticized countries in modern pop culture, particularly in car-centric media. Its influence on racing games, movies, and automotive design is undeniable.
Films like Fast & Furious: Tokyo Drift exemplify Japan’s enduring appeal among car enthusiasts. Combined with its current-day cultural dominance, Japan serves as the perfect backdrop for Forza Horizon 6, making it a standout title in the franchise.
Critical Reception and Awards
Forza Horizon 6 has received widespread acclaim, earning a 9 out of 10 from critics. Reviewers have highlighted its breathtaking visuals and polished gameplay as key strengths. With an average score of 92, it stands as the highest-rated game of 2026, a title it is likely to retain after its full release.
The post Forza Horizon 6 is still gated behind its $120 early access, but it’s already breaking franchise records appeared first on Destructoid.
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