Key Highlights
- Horizon Forbidden West expands on its predecessor with a massive and visually stunning open world filled with diverse ecosystems to explore.
- Encounter a host of deadly new machines, each requiring unique strategies and takedown methods.
- The game introduces fresh ways to traverse the world, including a glider and grappling hook, along with a variety of new weapons.
- PS5 players get a truly next-gen experience with incredible graphics, fast loading, and immersive haptic feedback from the DualSense controller.
- The story continues Aloy’s journey, introducing new tribes, compelling characters, and mysterious threats that set the stage for future adventures like the Burning Shores expansion.
Introduction
If you thought Horizon Zero Dawn was the peak of post-apocalyptic adventure, prepare to be amazed. Following its much-anticipated release date, Horizon Forbidden West arrived as a monumental sequel from developer Guerrilla Games and publisher Sony Interactive Entertainment. It takes the solid foundation of the first game and elevates every single aspect. This isn’t just more of the same; it’s a deeper, richer, and more breathtaking journey that solidifies Aloy’s place as one of gaming’s most iconic heroes.
Unveiling the Forbidden West: Story and Setting
Picking up six months after the first game’s conclusion, Horizon Forbidden West sends Aloy into the uncharted and dangerous distant lands of the west. Her mission is urgent: discover the source of a mysterious plague, a red blight that is poisoning the land, sickening tribes, and starving the wildlife.
The world of Horizon is expanded in incredible ways, presenting a dangerous frontier teeming with new threats and ancient secrets. To succeed, you must join Aloy as she navigates the complex politics of warring tribes and confronts a seemingly undefeatable new enemy. This sets the stage for a closer look at the reimagined world and Aloy’s personal journey.
A Post-Apocalyptic World Reimagined
The Forbidden West is a technical marvel and a triumph of world-building. What makes its world unique compared to Zero Dawn is its sheer diversity and scale. You’ll venture through everything from lush, dense jungles to arid deserts and treacherous, snow-capped mountains. The landscape is scarred by an unstoppable blight and battered by vicious storms, creating a world that feels both beautiful and perilous.
This new territory is home to the scattered remnants of humanity, who have formed distinct tribes with rich cultures. You’ll explore the decaying ruins of the old world, including haunting sunken cities and the shimmering, hologram-filled remains of Las Vegas. Every location tells a story, rewarding your curiosity with insights into the legacy of the ancient past.
Looming over it all are the machines. The game features enormous machines that are more deadly and varied than ever before. From giant mechanical snakes to electrified sea monsters, the fauna of this world is a constant threat. The sheer visual spectacle of these creatures roaming a world reclaimed by nature is something you won’t soon forget.
Aloy’s New Quest and Compelling Characters
Aloy‘s primary motivation in Horizon Forbidden West is to find a way to reboot GAIA, the planetary terraforming AI, to halt the mysterious plague that threatens to extinguish all life. This singular goal drives the main quest forward, but her journey is far from simple. She feels the immense pressure of being the world’s only hope, a chosen one struggling to live up to the legacy of her genetic predecessor.
This time, however, she isn’t entirely alone. While the first game was a largely solitary journey, this sequel introduces a cast of compelling companions. You’ll reunite with old friends like Varl and Erend while meeting fascinating new allies from the new tribes and new factions of the west. These characters are central to Aloy’s success and help her grow beyond her lone-wolf tendencies.
A significant addition is a central home base where you can interact with your companions, learn their backstories, and see your found family grow. This adds a welcome layer of personal connection to the story. As you face off against new enemies and uncover a hidden chapter of the past, having a team to rely on makes Aloy’s daunting quest feel more grounded and emotionally resonant.
Visual Splendor: Graphics and World Design
Prepare to be visually stunned, because Horizon Forbidden West is one of the best-looking games ever made. Thanks to an updated version of the Decima Engine, the level of graphics and incredible detail is simply jaw-dropping. From the way light filters through trees to the individual components on a machine, every element is crafted with breathtaking precision.
The environmental diversity is the true star of the show. Each region feels distinct and alive, beckoning you to explore its every corner. The following sections will provide a closer look at the game’s stunning landscapes and the next-gen enhancements that bring this world to life.
Breathtaking Landscapes and Environmental Diversity
The landscapes of Horizon Forbidden West are far more varied and vibrant than those in the previous game. While Zero Dawn was beautiful, its sequel introduces a much wider array of biomes that make exploration consistently exciting. The world feels more dynamic and alive, with every rustle of vegetation and every weather effect adding to the immersion.
You will traverse environments that are a feast for the eyes. The world is packed with incredible sights, from the highest mountain tops to the deepest underwater caverns. The detail is staggering; you can see small sprigs of leaves on the ground and feel the vegetation rustle as you move through it. This diversity answers the question, “How do environments in Forbidden West differ from the previous game?” by showcasing a world that is grander and more ecologically complex.
Some of the standout environments you’ll explore include:
- Dense, humid jungles with towering trees and hidden ruins.
- Pristine, sparkling coastlines with the ruins of San Francisco half-submerged in the sea.
- Arid, sun-scorched deserts hiding deep canyons and secret caves.
- Shimmering underwater corridors filled with unique flora and aquatic machines.
Animation, Lighting, and Next-Gen Enhancements
Beyond the static environments, the animation and lighting in Horizon Forbidden West are truly next-generation. Characters move with lifelike fluidity, and the machines are animated with an intimidating grace that makes them feel like real, living creatures. The smoothness of movement, especially in the 60fps performance mode on PlayStation 5, makes combat and traversal feel incredibly responsive.
One of the most noticeable next-gen upgrades is the near-elimination of loading screens. The fast load times mean you can fast travel across the massive map in seconds, keeping you immersed in the action without interruption. The lighting system is also a huge leap forward, creating realistic shadows, stunning sunrises, and deep, atmospheric nights that make the world feel constantly alive.
For PlayStation 5 players, the experience is further enhanced by the DualSense controller. These features are some of the most impressive next-gen upgrades, adding a tangible layer to the gameplay.
|
PS5 Enhancement |
Description |
|---|---|
|
Haptic Feedback |
Feel the sensation of blades of grass brushing past you, the impact of enemy attacks, and the thud of your spear. |
|
Adaptive Triggers |
Experience the tension in the string of your bow as you pull it back or the resistance of the triggers when using heavy weapons. |
|
3D Audio |
Hear the world around you with incredible clarity, from the screech of a machine overhead to the rustle of leaves behind you. |
|
Fast Loading |
Go from the main menu into the game or fast travel across the map in just a few seconds. |
Gameplay Evolution in Horizon Forbidden West
Horizon Forbidden West doesn’t just look and feel better; it plays better too. The core gameplay loop of exploration and combat has been refined and expanded, offering deeper strategic battles and more rewarding activities throughout its vast open world.
Every new tool and mechanic is designed to create a new level of immersion, making you feel more connected to Aloy and her fight for survival. From the feel of your weapons to the freedom of movement, the gameplay has evolved significantly. Let’s examine how the combat mechanics and world traversal have been improved.
Combat Mechanics and Weapon Variety
The combat mechanics are still centered on adrenaline-pumping fights against large mechanical machines, but with more options than ever before. A stealth approach is often wise, allowing you to analyze machines and tag their weak points before initiating a fight. Successfully tearing off components remains incredibly satisfying, especially when you can snatch a machine’s heavy weapon and use it against them.
The game introduces several new weapons to expand your tactical choices. The Spike Thrower lets you hurl explosive javelins, while the Boltcaster acts like a heavy-duty machine gun firing wooden spikes. These additions, along with new ammo types for existing mechanical weapons, allow you to tailor your loadout to your preferred playstyle. The skill trees have also been expanded, offering special Valor Surge abilities that can turn the tide of a difficult battle.
On the PlayStation 5, the DualSense controller enhances every moment of combat. You can feel the resistance of the triggers as you draw the string of your bow or the kickback from a powerful weapon, making each action feel more impactful and visceral.
Exploration, Traversal, and Open-World Activities
Traversal and exploration have received a massive overhaul, making getting around the world faster, smoother, and more fun. The climbing system is more fluid, but the biggest game-changers are the new tools. The Shieldwing allows you to glide safely from great heights, while the Pullcaster acts as a grappling hook to quickly zip up ledges or pull down obstacles. Feeling the pull of your new grappling tool adds a great physical sensation to movement.
The open world is denser with meaningful activities compared to the original game. The side quests are a particular highlight, often featuring compelling stories that reveal more about the world’s lore and its tribes. Many of these quests offer fantastic rewards, including some of the best weapons and armor in the game. You’ll also find plenty of other diversions to keep you busy.
How does it differ from Horizon Zero Dawn? The world is not just bigger, but packed with more engaging content. Activities include:
- Clearing out rebel camps of human enemies.
- Climbing towering Tallnecks to reveal more of the map.
- Solving environmental puzzles in ancient ruins.
- Diving into Cauldrons to unlock new machine overrides.
Conclusion
In conclusion, “Horizon Forbidden West” is not just a game; it’s an immersive experience that challenges players to master the wilds of a captivating post-apocalyptic world. With its stunning graphics and refined gameplay mechanics, it offers both seasoned gamers and newcomers an opportunity to explore rich narratives and engaging challenges. Aloy’s journey through diverse environments and her encounters with compelling characters make for a memorable adventure. Whether you’re battling mechanical beasts or unraveling the mysteries of the past, this game invites you to lose yourself in its beauty and depth. Ready to dive into this extraordinary world? Join the adventure today and experience it for yourself!
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Horizon Forbidden West beginner-friendly for new players?
While Horizon Forbidden West is accessible for newcomers gameplay-wise, the story is a direct continuation. You might miss the impact of the main quest without playing the first game. However, the world is so engaging that it’s still a blast to play.
How does Horizon Forbidden West compare to Zero Dawn?
Horizon Forbidden West is bigger and better than Horizon Zero Dawn in nearly every aspect. It features a more diverse open world, improved combat, more machines, and stunning graphics thanks to the updated version of the Decima Engine, all expanded upon in the Burning Shores DLC.
Are there significant improvements for PS5 players?
Yes, PS5 players get the definitive experience. Enhancements include a 60fps performance mode, near-instant fast load times, and immersive haptic feedback and adaptive triggers through the DualSense controller, making the game feel truly next-gen.