Forza Horizon 6 Threatens Hardware And Franchise-Wide Ban For Players Using Pirated Copies

Yesterday, a full PC build of Forza Horizon 6 leaked online roughly a week before the game’s scheduled release. Around 155 GB of game files were reportedly uploaded to Steam by mistake, letting people download and play the build early. Now Playground Games has officially confirmed the leak and warned players not to use the pirated version, saying anyone caught playing it could face serious bans.

In a post on X (formerly Twitter), the studio explained, “We are aware of reports that a build of Forza Horizon 6 has been obtained prior to its release and can confirm this is not the result of a pre-load issue. We are taking strict enforcement action against any individuals found accessing this build, including franchise-wide and hardware bans. We encourage fans to sit tight for the game’s release on May 19.”

Hardware bans are especially serious because they target the actual device itself, meaning even if someone later buys a legal copy of the game or creates another account, the banned PC or console may still stay locked out from online play. The “franchise-wide” bans could also remove access to online features across the entire Forza series, meaning affected players may not be able to play previous or future Forza games online, not just Forza Horizon 6.

It’s also worth noting that Playground Games has already started giving out massive bans to players caught using the leaked version, with some users reportedly receiving bans lasting until December 31, 9999, which is basically a lifetime ban. As for the real reason why the leak happened, it is still unknown. Playground Games said the issue does not appear to be connected to Steam preload systems.

In other news, Microsoft is reportedly preparing to launch a Limited-Edition Xbox Wireless Controller and Headset alongside the release of Forza Horizon 6.