2026 is shaping up to be a huge year for Xbox. The gaming giant’s signature trio of Halo, Forza, and Gears will return in 2026, promising an exciting time for both fans of the platform and other gamers.
While none of these titles has received a release window yet, a reliable leaker has just provided a small update pertaining to Forza Horizon 6. It is said that the game will launch during the first six months of 2026.
This update comes from insider NateTheHate2. When asked whether GTA 6’s delay would impact the release window of Forza Horizon 6, the insider noted that Xbox has always targeted a release window during the first half of 2026 for its upcoming racing title.
This target remains intact today, with the GTA 6 delay not impacting the game in any way. Because NateTheHate has proven to be so reliable in the past, Forza Horizon 6 will likely arrive at some point during the first few months of the year. Many are now predicting a March/April release for the title.
This launch would make a lot of sense for Xbox if it intends to space out Halo, Forza, and Gears next year, giving each title the time to shine in the spotlight. If Forza Horizon 6 serves as the big title for Q1 2026, Halo: Campaign Evolved could launch during the middle part of the year, and Gears of War: E-Day could end up being the big Fall title for next year.
In the past, Xbox has typically launched its Forza Horizon titles during the second half of the year. Forza Horizon 5 launched in November 2021, while Forza Horizon 5 arrived in October 2018. Similarly, Forza Horizon 3 launched in September 2016, so an H1 2026 launch for the series’ latest offering would be a departure from this trend.
Ultimately, it seems Xbox intends to space out releases next year to ensure none of the big three are overshadowed by each other. Also, since the likes of Fable are still slated to launch in 2026, the gaming giant might even push a title or two back to avoid saturating its first-party lineup during a single year.
