Forza Horizon 6 lets players fine‑tune how collisions affect their cars, offering three distinct damage modes that can change the feel of every race. Accessible on Xbox Series X|S and PC now, the game also lets you adjust AI difficulty to boost credit rewards.

Simulation Mode penalizes even minor wall contacts

The most hardcore option, Simulation, applies realistic wear: a light tap against a barrier can sap acceleration, pull the car to one side, or even cause the engine to stall, according to the game’s settings menu. This mode forces players to adopt a careful driving style and rewards precision over reckless speed.

Simplified setting offers a middle ground

Simplified reduces the severity of damage while still imposing performance penalties for crashes, creating a compromise for gamers who want some realism without the full penalty of Simulation. As the source notes, this configuration still “introduces some performance impact from crashes,” making it popular among those who enjoy a bit of risk.

Cosmetic Only mode shows dents but preserves handling

Cosmetic Only displays visual scratches and dents but leaves handling untouched, allowing racers to race for fun while still seeing the visual wear of a hard‑fought event. this option caters to players who prioritize visual immersion over mechanical consequences.

Drivatar difficulty ties AI challenge to credit earnings

Beyond damage, the Difficulty menu lets you raise Drivatar AI levels; defeating tougher AI yields higher credit payouts,a crucial factor for acquiring premium cars and upgrades, as highlighted in the guide. This synergy between AI difficulty and in‑game economy adds another layer of strategic planning.

What’s still unclear about the upcoming PS5 version?

The source confirms a PlayStation 5 port is slated for later in 2026, but provvides no details on whether the damage settings or Drivatar adjustments will differ on that platform. Additionally, it does not specify if any exclusive content will accompany the console release.