PGC NEWS

The reveal of Horizon Zero Dawn at E3 2015 drew thunderous applause and captivated PlayStation fans worldwide. The breathtaking demonstration from Guerrilla Games, known for the Killzone FPS series, showcased a mysterious new action RPG featuring a fierce battle between a colossal robot and the intriguing protagonist, Aloy. This initial glimpse sparked immense anticipation, despite some concerns following the less-than-stellar reception of Killzone: Shadow Fall. Subsequent appearances at E3 2016 and other events further fueled the hype, leaving gamers wondering if Horizon Zero Dawn would live up to expectations. This review delves into the world of Horizon Zero Dawn to determine if it truly delivers on its promise.

A World Blending Tribalpunk and Cyberpunk

Horizon Zero Dawn immediately immerses players in its captivating world. The post-apocalyptic setting seamlessly blends “tribalpunk” and “cyberpunk” aesthetics, where remnants of ancient tribal cultures coexist with futuristic technology. Lush landscapes, overgrown ruins, and vibrant tribal settlements create a visually stunning and unique environment. The game’s art direction is exceptional, with every vista offering a picturesque opportunity perfect for Photomode.

Aloy overlooking a lush valley

The Decima engine renders breathtaking weather effects, including rain, fog, sandstorms, and blizzards, along with a dynamic day-night cycle and realistic cloud formations. Advanced lighting techniques like volumetric lighting, ambient occlusion, and reflections further enhance the visual fidelity, making Horizon Zero Dawn one of the most beautiful games on the PlayStation 4, especially on the PS4 Pro.

Mechanical Marvels and Immersive Soundscapes

Guerrilla Games has meticulously crafted 26 distinct robot creatures, each with unique animations and attack patterns. From the majestic Tallnecks to the ferocious Sawtooths, these mechanical behemoths are visually impressive and offer challenging encounters. The animations are fluid and impactful, conveying the weight and power of each robot’s movements.

Aloy facing off against a mechanical beast

The game’s sound design is equally impressive. The soundtrack perfectly complements the game’s atmosphere, blending evocative vocals with orchestral arrangements to create a memorable and immersive experience. Ambient sounds, from distant robot roars to the chirping of birds, bring the world to life. The voice acting is top-notch, adding depth and emotion to the narrative and character interactions.

Aloy in a snowy environment

Aloy’s Compelling Journey

Aloy, the game’s protagonist, is a compelling character with a mysterious past. Raised as an outcast, she embarks on a journey of self-discovery and unravels the secrets of her world. The narrative is engaging and well-paced, driven by Aloy’s quest for answers and her interactions with a diverse cast of characters. The dialogue is well-written and offers meaningful choices that impact Aloy’s relationships and the story’s progression.

Aloy interacting with a character

Engaging Gameplay and Deep Combat

Horizon Zero Dawn’s gameplay seamlessly blends exploration, combat, and storytelling. The open world is filled with quests, activities, and secrets to discover. The mission design borrows elements from successful open-world games like The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt, but maintains its unique identity through its captivating setting and narrative.

Aloy aiming her bow

The combat system is dynamic and strategic. Players can utilize a variety of weapons and tactics, including stealth, traps, and elemental attacks, to take down the robotic creatures. Aloy’s skill tree offers further customization, allowing players to tailor their playstyle.

Aloy's skill tree

Minor Shortcomings

While Horizon Zero Dawn excels in many areas, it does have a few minor flaws. The side quests, while enjoyable, are somewhat limited in number and complexity. The enemy AI can be predictable at times, and the lack of mini-games and deeper environmental interactions feels like a missed opportunity. Occasional glitches, such as robots performing unexpected animations, can detract from the immersion.

Aloy riding a mechanical mount

Conclusion

Despite its minor shortcomings, Horizon Zero Dawn is a remarkable achievement. The stunning visuals, engaging story, and deep combat create an unforgettable experience. Guerrilla Games has successfully crafted a unique and captivating world that will leave players wanting more. Horizon Zero Dawn is a must-play for any PlayStation 4 owner.