Forza Horizon 6 managed to slip in a sly reference to Pokémon.
Xbox and Playground Games’ beloved racing franchise has returned, and it’s arguably better than ever. Forza Horizon 6 takes the series to Japan, a long-requested setting amongst fans. Not only is Japan a beautiful location for any game, but it has a very strong and thriving car culture. After years of fleshing out the franchise, Playground finally felt comfortable in taking on the setting and making the biggest Forza game yet.
As a result, Forza embraces Japan in all kinds of different ways. Of course, there’s an emphasis on drifting in the game, there are cherry blossom trees that are so culturally significant they can’t be destroyed, and there are all kinds of references to Japanese culture. One of the game’s most notable events even sees the player racing a giant mech through the streets of Japan. It’s outrageous, but right in line with the tone of Forza. Perhaps one of the most notable Japanese references is a nod to Pokémon, Nintendo’s beloved video game franchise.
While listening to the in-game radio, you may hear the radio hosts suggest that players take some pictures while exploring Japan. They then use the term, “Snap ’em all,” a play on Pokémon’s legendary tagline, “Gotta catch ’em all.”
The radio hosts then note that it’s, “like that Japanese collecting game we’re not allowed to name for legal reasons.” It’s a fun reference that has been amusing fans, especially since Nintendo is a very litigious company that will act against anyone who infringes on Pokémon’s rights.
Pokemon mentioned in Forza Horizon 6 💀 pic.twitter.com/Pbg6IYfRBh
— ຸ (@wxrry) May 16, 2026
In related news, Pokémon turns 30 this year, and there’s been no shortage of ways to celebrate. Target recently teamed up with Kellanova to produce a limited-edition line of Pokémon Pop-Tarts. As you might imagine, they have been the target of scalpers, who have been snatching up stock and reselling them for four or five times their normal retail price.
Cade Onder is a freelancer for IGN’s news team. He covers all things entertainment, including gaming, film, and more. You can find him on Twitter @Cade_Onder.
