Microsoft accidentally uploaded an unencrypted version of Forza Horizon 6 to Steam over the weekend, allowing pirates to crack and distribute the game a week before its official launch. The 155GB unprotected upload was quickly noticed and shared across social media and piracy sites, with gameplay footage already appearing on YouTube. This follows similar recent incidents with Death Stranding 2 and Hitman 2, highlighting ongoing challenges in game release security.
Background
Game publishers often use pre-loading systems that allow players to download encrypted game files before launch, which are then unlocked with a key on release day. However, mistakes in this process can lead to early leaks and piracy, as seen in previous incidents with other major game releases.
- Source
- Ars Technica
- Published
- May 11, 2026 at 11:29 PM
- Score
- 6.0 / 10