The hype around Forza Horizon 6 is real, and for good reason. The next entry in the hugely popular racing series is moving to Japan, promising a fresh open world packed with scenic roads, neon-lit cities, mountain passes, and seasonal changes.
But before you start dreaming about drifting through Tokyo streets, there’s one big question every PC gamer is asking right now: will your PC be able to run it?
Microsoft and Playground Games have officially revealed the minimum PC requirements, giving players a solid idea of what kind of system is needed to jump in. While the recommended specs are still not fully confirmed, there is already enough information to help you plan ahead.
Here’s a detailed and easy-to-understand breakdown of the Forza Horizon 6 PC requirements, along with what they mean for real-world performance.
Minimum PC Requirements for Forza Horizon 6
These are the official minimum system requirements needed to run Forza Horizon 6 on PC. Meeting these specs should allow the game to run at lower graphics settings.
Forza Horizon 6 Minimum PC Requirements
| Component | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Operating System | Windows 10 22H2 (Build 19045) or newer, 64-bit |
| Processor (CPU) | Intel Core i5-8400 or AMD Ryzen 5 1600 |
| Memory (RAM) | 16 GB |
| Graphics Card (GPU) | NVIDIA GTX 1650 / AMD RX 6500 XT / Intel Arc A380 or Arc B390 |
| DirectX | Version 12 |
| Storage | SSD required |
| Internet | Broadband connection recommended |
One thing that immediately stands out is the mandatory SSD requirement. Unlike older Horizon games, installing Forza Horizon 6 on a traditional hard drive will not be supported. This signals a clear push toward faster loading and smoother world streaming.
What Kind of Performance Can You Expect?
If your PC meets the minimum requirements listed above, you should expect the game to be playable, but not maxed out.
Most systems at this level should be able to handle:
- 1080p resolution
- Low to medium graphics settings
- Stable frame rates during races
- Occasional compromises in visual effects
Advanced features like ultra shadows, high-quality reflections, and dense crowds may need to be turned down. That said, Forza Horizon games are known for solid optimization, so even lower settings should still look impressive.
Expected Recommended PC Requirements (Not Final)
At the time of writing, Playground Games has not published the official recommended PC requirements. However, based on modern AAA standards and past Forza Horizon titles, the following setup is widely expected for smoother gameplay at higher settings.
Forza Horizon 6 Recommended PC Requirements (Expected)
| Component | Expected Specification |
|---|---|
| Operating System | Windows 10 22H2 (Build 19045) or newer, 64-bit |
| Processor (CPU) | Intel Core i7-11700K or AMD Ryzen 7 5800X |
| Memory (RAM) | 16 GB (32 GB recommended for higher settings) |
| Graphics Card (GPU) | NVIDIA RTX 2060 / RTX 3070 or AMD RX 6600 / RX 6800 |
| DirectX | Version 12 |
| Storage | SSD with 100 GB or more free space |
| Internet | Broadband connection recommended |
With this kind of hardware, players can expect:
- Higher graphics presets
- Better lighting and reflections
- Smoother frame rates
- Support for 1440p or even 4K resolution
Keep in mind that these specs are based on expectations, not final confirmation. Official recommended requirements are expected closer to launch.
Why an SSD Is Required for Forza Horizon 6
The SSD requirement is not just a suggestion. It’s a necessity.
Forza Horizon 6 is being designed as a fully next-generation open-world experience, with faster cars, denser environments, and more detailed landscapes. An SSD helps the game:
- Load races and events faster
- Stream the open world smoothly at high speeds
- Reduce texture pop-in
- Handle frequent updates and expansions
If you’re still gaming on an HDD, this might be the upgrade that finally becomes unavoidable.
How Demanding Is Forza Horizon 6 Compared to Older Games?
Compared to Forza Horizon 4 and 5, the new game clearly raises the bar. The jump to newer GPUs, higher RAM, and mandatory SSD storage reflects:
- Larger and more complex maps
- Improved lighting and weather systems
- Better car detail and physics
- More online and live-service features
In short, it’s built for modern hardware.
Release Date and PC Platforms
Forza Horizon 6 is officially set to launch on May 19, 2026, for PC and Xbox Series X|S. Players who purchase the Premium Edition will get early access starting May 15, 2026.
On PC, the game will be available through:
Final Verdict
Forza Horizon 6 looks ready to push the series forward in a big way. While the minimum PC requirements may feel steep for some players, they reflect the reality of next-gen open-world gaming.
If your system already runs recent AAA titles comfortably, you should be in a good spot. If not, upgrading to an SSD or a mid-range GPU could make all the difference.
Planning to upgrade your PC for Forza Horizon 6? Save this guide and check back for final recommended specs, performance benchmarks, and PC optimization tips as we get closer to launch.
