Forza Horizon 6 Raises the Bar on PC System Requirements

Forza Horizon 6 Raises the Bar on PC System Requirements

  • , by Mark Verwoert
  • 2 min reading time

Forza Horizon 6 is shaping up as one of the most technically ambitious entries in the open-world racing franchise, and early PC system requirement details reflect that direction. The game’s minimum specifications have increased compared to past titles, signalling a shift toward more modern hardware bases as Playground Games prepares for its 19 May 2026 release on PC and Xbox Series consoles.

Stricter PC Minimums, SSD Now Mandatory

To run Forza Horizon 6 at minimum settings, players will need at least an Intel Core i5-8400 or AMD Ryzen 5 1600 CPU paired with 16 GB of RAM—a step up that aligns with larger open worlds and richer visuals. Graphics requirements include entry-level modern GPUs like the Nvidia GTX 1650, AMD RX 6500 XT, or Intel Arc A380, with integrated support even pegged to the upcoming Intel Arc B390 iGPU. Importantly, an SSD is now required, emphasising the game’s focus on fast loading and seamless world streaming.

While these minimums may seem higher than previous entries, they remain within reach for many mid-range systems released over the past few years. The inclusion of upcoming integrated graphics options also hints at broader PC compatibility—especially for laptops and portable rigs—without demanding top-tier hardware just to launch.

What This Means for PC Racing Fans

The updated requirements suggest Playground Games expects Forza Horizon 6’s expansive environments—with more detailed ecosystems and denser urban landscapes—to push hardware harder than before. As a result, racers on older machines may need to upgrade key components—especially storage and memory—to ensure a smooth experience. Conversely, players with recent discrete GPUs and SSDs should find the minimum spec achievable while still enjoying a playable experience ahead of the full release.

Preparing Your Rig for Launch

With pre-ordering underway and early-access options tied to premium editions, now is a good time for PC players to evaluate their systems against these requirements. Meeting or exceeding the confirmed minimum will help ensure Horizon’s sprawling Japanese landscapes and huge roster of cars run without technical hiccups at launch. For sim racing fans who enjoy community tools and external telemetry, having headroom above the minimum spec also increases the chances of smooth performance with overlays and peripheral integrations.

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