Horizon Forbidden West, the highly anticipated sequel to Horizon Zero Dawn, continues the journey of Aloy, a young huntress in a world dominated by colossal, animalistic machines. Developed by Guerrilla Games and published by Sony Interactive Entertainment, this action RPG builds upon its predecessor's foundation, delivering an expansive, visually stunning world, an engaging narrative, and refined gameplay mechanics.
Narrative and World-Building
Set in a post-apocalyptic future where humanity has regressed to a tribal society, Forbidden West sees Aloy venture into the uncharted western territories to uncover the mysteries behind a new threat to the world. The narrative is compelling, weaving together themes of environmentalism, ancient technology, and human resilience. The writing is sharp, with well-developed characters and a story that keeps players invested from start to finish.
The world of Forbidden West is richly detailed, featuring diverse biomes ranging from lush forests and arid deserts to snow-capped mountains and underwater environments. Each area feels alive, teeming with wildlife, both mechanical and organic, and filled with secrets waiting to be discovered. The developers have clearly put immense effort into creating a living, breathing world that rewards exploration.
Gameplay and Mechanics
Building on the solid gameplay mechanics of Horizon Zero Dawn, Forbidden West introduces new features and improvements that enhance the overall experience. The combat system remains a highlight, combining strategic planning with fast-paced action. Players must learn the strengths and weaknesses of various machines, using a variety of weapons and tools to exploit these vulnerabilities.
New to Forbidden West are the Valor Surges, powerful abilities that can be unlocked and customized to suit different playstyles. These add a new layer of depth to combat, allowing for more strategic options in encounters. Additionally, the melee combat has been significantly improved, making it a more viable option in battles.
Traversal in the game has also seen enhancements. Aloy can now climb freely on designated surfaces, use a grappling hook to reach higher areas, and glide using a Shieldwing, adding a new dimension to exploration. These tools make navigating the world more dynamic and enjoyable, encouraging players to seek out hidden locations and secrets.
Visuals and Performance
Horizon Forbidden West is a visual masterpiece, showcasing the capabilities of the PlayStation 5. The game's graphics are breathtaking, with highly detailed environments, realistic lighting, and intricate character models. The attention to detail is astounding, from the way light filters through the trees to the fluid animations of Aloy and the machines.
The game runs smoothly, maintaining a consistent frame rate even during intense action sequences. The loading times are minimal, thanks to the PS5's SSD, allowing for a more seamless and immersive experience. On the PS4, while the game doesn't reach the same graphical heights, it still performs admirably, ensuring that players on both platforms can enjoy the adventure.
Sound and Music
The audio design in Forbidden West is top-notch, with a hauntingly beautiful score composed by Joris de Man, The Flight, Niels van der Leest, and Oleksa Lozowchuk. The music perfectly complements the game's atmosphere, heightening the emotional impact of key moments. The sound effects are equally impressive, from the mechanical roars of the machines to the ambient sounds of nature.
Voice acting is another strong point, with Ashly Burch delivering a standout performance as Aloy. The supporting cast also does an excellent job, bringing the game's characters to life with believable and nuanced performances.
Conclusion
Horizon Forbidden West is a triumphant sequel that successfully builds on the strengths of its predecessor while introducing meaningful improvements. Its captivating narrative, stunning visuals, and refined gameplay make it a must-play for fans of the series and newcomers alike. Guerrilla Games has crafted a world that is both beautiful and dangerous, inviting players to lose themselves in its mysteries and adventures. Whether you're exploring the breathtaking landscapes, battling formidable machines, or unraveling the story's secrets, Horizon Forbidden West offers an unforgettable gaming experience.