Forza Horizon 6 plans January expansion on PS5, paired with a cross-save system, as Xbox updates Mafia 3.
The big news in the Xbox world is Forza Horizon 6’s strategic cross-platform expansion plans. Playground Games has announced that the first Premium Expansion for Forza Horizon 6 is set to release on January 21, 2027, coinciding with the game’s launch on the PlayStation 5. While PS5 owners can expect the full game launch on January 26, they have the option for early access on the 21st through a paid package. This expansion marks an interesting move towards inclusivity with full cross-platform and cross-save functionality across PS5, Xbox, and Steam. As Horizon continues to evolve, this new step embodies the shifting dynamics of console gaming.
In addition to the planned expansion, Forza Horizon 6 is collaborating with 7-Eleven to offer a unique in-game event. This “Horizon Meets” update introduces a 7-Eleven themed store in the game’s Nangan region, providing players with a virtual convenience store experience within the racing platform. Such content can only deepen the game’s immersion and engagement, aligning with Playground Games’ continuous update strategy.
Mafia 3 Gets a Next-Gen Upgrade
Mafia 3 has received an upgrade for the Xbox Series X|S, a pleasant surprise for long-time fans of the series. According to purexbox.com, digital owners of Mafia 3 Definitive Edition from the Xbox One days can now download an updated version for Xbox Series X|S at no additional cost. This upgrade is aimed at improving game visuals and performance, providing a fresh experience of the classic title for new-generation console users.
Xbox Addresses Developer Frustrations
In other industry news, Xbox CTO Scott Van Vliet has publicly acknowledged issues brought up by developers regarding the hurdles faced when publishing games on the Xbox platform. Van Vliet’s statement, as reported by purexbox.com, emphasizes that the Xbox team is committed to streamlining the process to encourage more titles and content diversity on Xbox.
Minor Titles and Releases
- Tape to Tape, a popular hockey game formerly only available on Steam, is set to release on Xbox by the end of the month. This release brings variety to a genre in need of attention beyond the EA Sports NHL series.
- Dragon’s Dogma 2: Dark Arisen promises new narratives and challenges, although specifics from TheXboxHub remain vague.
- Hidden Objects Adventure and HORSE CLUB Ride West both present new genres and settings, although details are sparse. Neither seems set to shake the gaming landscape dramatically at this point.
