Microsoft has confirmed the release date of Forza Horizon 6 during today's Xbox Developer Direct livestream — and there's only a few months to go.

It's a big day for Xbox fans, with Microsoft finally offering a closer look at some of its most anticipated titles, courtesy of its first Developer Direct of the year. And that began with a fresh peek at Forza Horizon 6, bringing word of a 19th May release date on PC and Xbox, with a PS5 launch coming later this year.

From the biggest city in the series yet to reworked progression and base-building elements – here are the top reasons why fans are excited about FH6.

Forza Horizon 6 launches for PC and Xbox Series X|S on May 19 and it'll be coming to PS5 at a later date. Before it launches, you can also check out the revival of the racing game series Screamer in March, for an even more overt tribute to anime.

Forza Horizon fans have been waiting for the series to go to Japan all along, and now, it's happening with a seemingly proper effort from Playground Games.

Your journey in FH6 starts out as a mere tourist, and you'll have to compete in the Horizon Qualifiers to start out. Then, Playground is bringing back the 'Wristband' progression system from the very first Forza Horizon game, where you'll "rise through the ranks" and "complete races and events in faster and more exciting cars" as you progress.

Playground Games' new Forza Horizon game takes the series to Japan, reflecting Japanese culture, seasons, and racing destinations.

Fans believe the Forza Horizon 6 reveal trailer is hinting at the addition of bikes into the game. Here's what you need to know