Unencrypted Steam Preload Leads to Early Release of Forza Horizon 6 Files

Major Leak Hits Forza Horizon 6 Ahead of Global Launch

On May 9, 2025, an unencrypted version of Forza Horizon 6 was accidentally uploaded to Steam, a full ten days before its scheduled global release on May 19. The 155-gigabyte repository contained files that allowed users to download and run the game prior to its official debut.

The leak originated from the game's preload process on Steam. Typically, preload files are encrypted and only decrypted upon official release. In this incident, sources indicate that both the preload and the decryption update were released prematurely, exposing unencrypted files. The cause is attributed to a human error during the upload process, where encryption was not applied.

Reports of the leak quickly surfaced on social media and forums, including CrackWatch. Users shared screenshots and a short gameplay video on YouTube. The downloaded files, which appeared on file-sharing sites, were subsequently cracked by third parties.

"Both the preload and the decryption update were released prematurely, exposing the game files without encryption."

This marks the second known instance of a major game leaking via an unencrypted Steam preload in 2025, following a similar incident involving Death Stranding 2 in March. The game's availability on piracy websites was referenced in a Reddit thread that was later removed by Reddit's Legal Operations team. Streams of the gameplay are now being broadcast early.

Despite the leak, Forza Horizon 6 remains the second top-selling game by revenue on Steam and the third most-wishlisted title. Pre-purchases suggest that significant sales will continue despite the early access.

The game is set to launch on PC, Xbox, and Game Pass. An early access period is scheduled to begin May 15, with the official global release on May 19.

• Setting: Japan and Tokyo, described as the largest map in the series.
• Vehicles: Over 550 cars at launch.
• Platforms: A PS5 version is planned for a later date.

As of the time of reporting, neither Playground Games nor Microsoft have issued a public comment on the leak. Reports indicate that Microsoft is working to contain the leak, but it remains unclear whether the incident will affect the official launch plans.