Playground Games has issued a stern warning to anyone using pirated copies of Forza Horizon 6, threatening severe consequences including franchise-wide bans and hardware-level restrictions. This comes after an early build of the game leaked online, giving unauthorized players nearly two weeks of early access before the official launch on May 19, 2026.
Forza Horizon 6 Pirates Face Franchise-Wide and Hardware Bans
The Microsoft-owned developer confirmed that a playable build of Forza Horizon 6 has been circulating online, not due to any preload error but because of a leak from an insider with early access. This unauthorized distribution has allowed pirates to experience the game’s streets of Japan prematurely, much to Playground Games’ dismay.
To combat this, Playground Games announced on social media that anyone caught accessing or sharing the leaked build will face stringent penalties. These include bans that affect all Forza titles linked to the user’s account and hardware bans that lock out the offending device from playing any game in the franchise. Related coverage: Controversial SuperSega Creator Unveils V3 Wooden PC with Sega.
Hardware bans are particularly severe as they target the unique device ID, meaning that simply creating a new account or purchasing the game on another platform from the same device will not circumvent the restriction.
Details on the Leak and Enforcement
Originally thought to be a Steam preload mishap, the leak is now attributed to an individual with early access, such as a tester or reviewer. SteamDB added context by suggesting the leak came from a reviewer, while also clarifying that they do not distribute game keys or files.
In one reported incident, a YouTuber who uploaded 45 minutes of gameplay footage was hit with a hardware ban lasting 8,000 years, illustrating the seriousness of Playground Games’ crackdown.
Why Players Should Avoid Using Leaked Builds
Besides the obvious ethical and legal implications, players who opt to use pirated versions risk losing access to the entire Forza franchise on their devices. This ban extends beyond just Forza Horizon 6 and is designed to protect the integrity of the game’s launch and the studio’s business.
Playground Games encourages fans to wait for the official release on Xbox Series S|X, PC, and Game Pass, which offers multiple editions ranging from $69.99 to $119.99, including early access starting May 15 for premium buyers.
Playground Games’ Message to the Community
Playground Games’ direct approach serves as a strong deterrent against piracy. By publicly naming the consequences of using leaked content, the studio hopes to maintain a fair gaming environment and protect its intellectual property.
Fans are urged to respect the official release schedule and avoid unauthorized copies, ensuring they can enjoy Forza Horizon 6 safely and without risking permanent bans.
(Via)
