Forza Horizon 6 Beginner's Guide: The Best Tips For Getting Started

Forza Horizon 6 is bigger, faster, and more expansive than its predecessors.

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Forza Horizon 6 is one of the most popular games of 2026. | © Turn 10 Studios / Playground Games

The open-world map set in Japan offers countless activities, hundreds of cars, and plenty of ways to earn Credits and grow your garage.

For new players, the sheer number of events, challenges, and menus can quickly become overwhelming. To help you avoid missing important features and make efficient progress from the start, we've put together the most important tips for getting started in Forza Horizon 6.

Take Your Time During the First Few Hours

While it may be tempting to explore the entire map right away, it's worth focusing on the introductory events during your first few hours. The tutorial not only explains the core driving mechanics but also unlocks important features step by step.

Many systems, including online events, special race series, and progression mechanics, only become available after completing the early chapters. If you skip the introduction and simply roam the open world, you may miss valuable rewards and progression opportunities.

Adjust the Driving Assists to Your Playstyle

Forza Horizon 6 is designed for both sim racing enthusiasts and casual players. The default settings provide a solid starting point, but it's worth taking a closer look at the driving assists.

If you're new to racing games, features such as steering assist, braking assist, and the racing line can be extremely helpful. More experienced players should consider turning some assists off.

Reducing assists not only gives you greater control over your car but also increases the Credit bonuses you receive after each race. In particular, switching to manual transmission, with or without clutch, can significantly boost your earnings once you become comfortable with the controls.

Spend Your First Credits Wisely

It's tempting to spend your first Credits on expensive supercars, but it's better to save your money early on.

Forza Horizon 6 regularly rewards players with new vehicles through Wheelspins, Festival rewards, and challenges. Only purchase cars you truly need for specific race types or disciplines.

A versatile road racing car, a reliable off-road vehicle, and a dedicated drift car are more than enough to get started.

Don't Use Wheelspins Immediately

Wheelspins are one of the most important reward systems in Forza Horizon 6. They can grant Credits, cars, cosmetic items, and other valuable rewards.

It can be beneficial to save up multiple Wheelspins and redeem them later. This gives you a better overview of your garage and helps you avoid purchasing vehicles you might unlock shortly afterward anyway.

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FH6 is a highlight for every racing game fan. | © Turn 10 Studios / Playground Games

Skill Points Are More Valuable Than You Think

You'll earn experience points through drifts, jumps, overtakes, and Skill Chains. These activities reward you with Skill Points that can be invested in each car's mastery tree.

Some vehicles offer especially valuable perks, including additional Credits, Wheelspins, and experience boosts. Before spending your points randomly, take a closer look at which cars provide the best rewards.

These bonuses can give you a significant advantage during your first few hours.

Explore the Map Actively

The open world of Forza Horizon 6 is packed with hidden content. Experience boards, Fast Travel boards, Barn Finds, and viewpoints all provide useful rewards and make long-term progression easier.

Make time to explore areas away from the main race routes. Every road you discover, challenge you complete, and Fast Travel point you unlock will save you valuable time later.

Try Different Vehicle Classes

Not every car is suited for every discipline. Some vehicles excel on asphalt, while others perform better in off-road races or drift events.

Experiment with different vehicle types and race categories to find your preferred driving style. Forza Horizon 6 rewards versatility and offers suitable cars for nearly every activity.

Trying different classes often leads to unexpected favorites and helps you avoid expensive purchasing mistakes.

Complete Daily and Weekly Challenges

The Festival Playlist is one of the most important features in Forza Horizon 6. Regular challenges offer exclusive cars, Credits, and cosmetic rewards.

Even if you only have limited playtime, it's worth checking the weekly objectives. Many rewards are available for a limited time and may not return later.

Forza Horizon 6 rewards curiosity, variety, and a smart approach to progression. Focus on the introductory content, save your Credits, use Skill Points wisely, and explore the world at your own pace.

By following these tips, you'll build a strong garage quickly and set yourself up for many successful hours on the roads of Japan.

Florian Frick

Flo is studying Sports-journalism and combining his passion for writing and esports at EarlyGame. He is kind of addicted to CS. To say he can get emotional whilst watching his favorite teams would be an understatement....