Forza Horizon 6 Breaks Player Count Records
In a remarkable turn of events, the early access release of Forza Horizon 6 has set a new benchmark for the series, more than tripling the previous Steam player count record. As the standard edition became available, the game reached an impressive peak of 273,148 players on Steam, a figure that is anticipated to rise further throughout the day.
The excitement began with the premium version’s launch on Friday, May 15, followed by a broader release on Tuesday, May 19. Prior to this, Forza Horizon 5 held the record for concurrent players on Steam with 81,096 at its launch, while Forza Horizon 4 peaked at 75,689. The current numbers for Forza Horizon 6, as reported by SteamDB, signify a significant leap in engagement.
Adding to the game’s appeal is its availability on Game Pass, allowing many players to experience the title without the upfront cost. Although the premium version was not included in the subscription service, the standard edition is now accessible to subscribers at no additional charge. This factor alone suggests that the total player count could exceed half a million, particularly with many opting for the Game Pass route.
Several elements contribute to this surge in player interest. The game’s captivating Japan setting has long been a fan request, resonating deeply with the gaming community. Historical trends, as seen with franchises like Assassin’s Creed, indicate that such settings often enhance a game’s popularity. Additionally, the strong review scores—like the 9/10 rating from Aaron in our review—coupled with positive fan sentiment since the premium edition’s launch, have undoubtedly fueled the game’s momentum.
Forza Horizon 6 is currently available on both Game Pass and Steam, and the player count is expected to continue its upward trajectory in the coming days.