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  5. Horizon Zero Dawn

Horizon Zero Dawn

Overall Rating: 4.28 • 3753 reviews

Step into the breathtaking world of Horizon Zero Dawn, where lush landscapes and futuristic mysteries collide. Unravel the enigma of mechanized creatures and discover the secrets behind a forgotten civilization. Ideal for gamers who crave immersive narratives and captivating exploration, this game offers a perfect escape into a richly detailed universe. Whether you’re battling awe-inspiring robots or uncovering ancient lore, Horizon Zero Dawn promises an adventure that’s both thrilling and unforgettable.

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Details

Some of the particulars and information about Horizon Zero Dawn.
Developer: Guerrilla Games
Release Date: February 28, 2017
How Long to Beat: 23 hrs

Ratings

Some of the ratings and scores for Horizon Zero Dawn.
89 Metacritic
9.3 IGN
-- Our Score

Genres

Action
Adventure
Open World
Role-Playing Game

Systems

Here's where you can find Horizon Zero Dawn and play.

ESRB: Teen

Blood
Language
Violence
Overview
Why Play?
How Much Time?
Overview

In the expansive world of Horizon Zero Dawn, players are invited to embark on an unforgettable journey where nature and machine collide in awe-inspiring harmony.

Why Play?

This game effortlessly captures the imagination by combining a beautifully rendered post-apocalyptic world with an enticing blend of action and exploration.

How Much Time?

When considering how much time you might invest in playing Horizon Zero Dawn, it's essential to account for the game's expansive nature and the variety of activities available.

A Vast Open World Awaits

Horizon Zero Dawn offers an expansive world that’s both majestic and perilous, set in a distant future where nature has reclaimed the planet. As players step into the shoes of Aloy, a young hunter with a knack for survival, they are immediately immersed in lush landscapes and awe-inspiring vistas. This game provides a refreshing take on open-world adventures, allowing players to explore diverse terrains from thick forests to arid deserts. The attention to detail in crafting the environment makes every expedition memorable, capturing the essence of nature’s beauty and its hidden dangers. With each journey, there’s something new to discover, be it remnants of the past or the vibrant wildlife that roams freely.

Dynamic Combat and Strategy

At the heart of Horizon Zero Dawn is its compelling combat system, blending traditional weaponry with futuristic technology. Players are equipped with a bow and an array of high-tech gadgets, enabling creative and tactical approaches to combat. The game doesn’t just pit you against regular foes; instead, it introduces towering, mechanical beasts that require keen observation and strategy to defeat. Each encounter is a thrilling test of skill and preparation, pushing players to adapt and think on their feet. The mechanics encourage experimentation, offering a satisfying depth that keeps battles engaging and rewarding throughout the journey.

An Intriguing Narrative Journey

Featuring a rich narrative that unfolds with every discovery, Horizon Zero Dawn captivates players with its intriguing storyline and well-developed characters. Aloy’s quest to uncover her origins is riddled with mysteries and unexpected twists that drive the narrative forward. The lore of this world is meticulously crafted, weaving a tale that seamlessly combines elements of science fiction and fantasy. Character interactions are meaningful, providing deeper insight into Aloy’s world and the societies within it. This narrative depth ensures an immersive experience, keeping players invested in the unfolding story as they explore the wonders and secrets of Horizon Zero Dawn.

Immersive Exploration and Discovery

For those who crave exploration, Horizon Zero Dawn offers a rich tapestry of environments that beckon players to wander off the beaten path. The game’s intricate world encourages curiosity, revealing hidden locations and secrets for those willing to explore. Each area is distinct, featuring myriad microenvironments filled with unique flora and fauna. This invites players to engage their sense of wonder and adventure, while the interactive map helps track discoveries and aid navigation. The seamless integration of environmental storytelling enhances replayability and keeps the game world fresh and intriguing, making it a captivating choice for gamers who love immersing themselves in detailed landscapes.

Craftsmanship and Resource Management

Another compelling reason to play Horizon Zero Dawn is its engaging crafting and resource management system, which adds depth to the gameplay. Players gather materials from the world, harvested from both nature and the remains of fallen machines. These resources are critical for crafting ammunition, traps, and equipment upgrades. This system rewards strategic planning, allowing players to tailor their approach and adapt to various challenges. Crafting is intuitive and satisfying, giving gamers a sense of accomplishment as they prepare for the next big adventure. This element enriches the gameplay, adding layers of strategy without overwhelming players who prefer a balanced experience.

Stunning Visuals and Audio Experience

Horizon Zero Dawn doesn’t just deliver on gameplay; it excels in its audiovisual presentation. The stunning graphics capture breathtaking landscapes, from panoramic mountainous vistas to the intricate details of rustling leaves. The dynamic lighting and weather effects further enhance this visual splendor, creating a living, breathing world. Complementing the visuals is a masterful soundtrack that sets the mood and amplifies the emotional resonance of Aloy’s journey. Sound effects enhance the realism, with every gust of wind, creature call, and clash of metal adding to the immersion. For gamers seeking a visually and aurally captivating experience, this game stands as a remarkable achievement in storytelling through sensory engagement.

Estimated Completion Times

The time it takes to complete Horizon Zero Dawn varies significantly based on individual playstyle and objectives. Players focusing solely on the main storyline can expect to invest around 20 to 25 hours. This involves Aloy’s core journey as she navigates through pivotal plot points, tackles main missions, and encounters primary obstacles. The story-driven gameplay is crafted to maintain engagement, balancing exploration with a series of exhilarating confrontations, which ensures a captivating pace throughout.

Exploration and Side Quests

For those who relish thorough exploration and uncovering every hidden area, the playtime extends considerably. Delving into side quests, which offer rich narrative threads and additional challenges, can bring the total up to 40 or more hours. Each side mission in Horizon Zero Dawn is designed to add context to the overarching story, expanding on character lore and environmental storytelling. This complements the main storyline, offering a more nuanced understanding of the post-apocalyptic world and deepening the overall gaming experience.

Completionist Journey

For gamers aiming for a completionist approach, the journey can demand up to 60 hours or beyond. This involves collecting all in-game collectibles, perfecting hunting techniques against various mechanical beasts, and indulging in the crafting system to its fullest. Completing all achievements and unlocking every trophy takes meticulous planning and perseverance. Horizon Zero Dawn truly rewards those who are committed to experiencing everything the game has to offer, providing countless memorable moments along the way.

Trailer

A Quick Look at Horizon Zero Dawn

Curious what Horizon Zero Dawn is all about? The trailer gives you a great first look at the world, the vibe, and the kind of story you're stepping into.

Horizon Zero Dawn Trailer
Videos

Related videos for Horizon Zero Dawn

These videos give some tips and pointers on getting started with Horizon Zero Dawn

Horizon Zero Dawn - Before You Buy

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Horizon Zero Dawn Remastered - Before You Buy

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Horizon Zero Dawn Remastered - 15 Things You Absolutely NEED TO KNOW Before You Buy

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Screenshots

Screenshots of Horizon Zero Dawn

Want to see what Horizon Zero Dawn actually looks like in-game? These screenshots will hopefully give you a feel for what the world of Horizon Zero Dawn is like.

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Extras

Downloadable Content for Horizon Zero Dawn

DLC just means more of a good thing. Here are some for Horizon Zero Dawn

Horizon Zero Dawn Remastered
Horizon Zero Dawn Remastered
Horizon Zero Dawn Complete Edition
Horizon Zero Dawn Complete Edition

Horizon Zero Dawn Remastered

Rediscover a Gorgeous Post-Apocalyptic World

Experience the stunning landscapes of a reimagined world with Horizon Zero Dawn Remastered. This DLC provides a fresh layer of visual fidelity that enhances your journey through a ravished Earth. Expect richly detailed environments, from lush forests to arid deserts, all teeming with dynamic weather effects that make every adventure feel invigorating and new. Whether you’re witnessing a breathtaking sunrise over the mountains or encountering the eerie beauty of a robotic-infested valley, this remaster elevates the original game’s visuals to captivating new heights, sure to immerse you from the first moment you step into Aloy’s shoes.

Enhanced Gameplay for a Seamless Experience

Horizon Zero Dawn Remastered not only refines the visual appeal but also optimizes gameplay mechanics for a more fluid experience. Enjoy quicker load times and improved frame rates that make exploration and combat more enjoyable than ever. The intuitive control enhancements mean you can savor each battle sequence without the frustration of lag or slowdown, allowing you to truly appreciate Aloy’s skillset in overcoming the mechanical beasts that roam the land. The remaster strikes a perfect balance, bringing both new players and die-hard fans an upgrade to the beloved mechanics, ensuring every confrontation and puzzle solve flows seamlessly.

An Immersive Journey for Every Type of Gamer

Whether you’re a seasoned player returning to the lands of the Carja and Nora or a newcomer exploring this breathtaking universe for the first time, Horizon Zero Dawn Remastered offers a compelling and memorable gaming experience. The deeper story elements, which delve into themes of survival and identity, become more engaging with enhanced cutscenes and voice acting clarity. Additions to the original content, including new quests and items, keep the gameplay fresh and provide new avenues for discovery. This DLC ensures that whether you have a few hours to spare or are ready to dive into a weekend gaming marathon, you’ll find delight and fulfillment in Aloy’s world.

Horizon Zero Dawn Complete Edition

Explore an Immersive Post-Apocalyptic World

In the Horizon Zero Dawn Complete Edition, players are transported to a breathtaking open-world landscape set in a lush, post-apocalyptic setting where nature has reclaimed the earth, and towering mechanical beasts roam freely. This edition includes the full original game along with the expansion The Frozen Wilds, offering hours of engaging content to explore. Players assume the role of Aloy, a skilled hunter seeking to uncover her past and the mysterious source of the world’s mechanized creatures. Offering rich storytelling and a vivid environment, this edition invites gamers to embark on an unforgettable journey filled with discovery and intrigue.

Enhanced Gameplay with The Frozen Wilds

The inclusion of The Frozen Wilds expansion in the Horizon Zero Dawn Complete Edition introduces new regions to explore beyond the base game’s expansive landscapes. Set in the icy reaches of The Cut, this extension plunges players into a new chapter filled with unique challenges and chilling beauty. The terrain is treacherous and requires Aloy to adapt her strategies and tactics to face formidable new machines and uncover ancient secrets buried beneath the snow. With its captivating narrative and additional quests, The Frozen Wilds integrates seamlessly into the original storyline, enhancing the complete gaming experience.

Perfect for Casual Yet Engrossing Play

Designed with the average adult gamer in mind, the Horizon Zero Dawn Complete Edition balances engaging gameplay with immersive storytelling, making it an ideal choice for those seeking captivating adventures without the need for intense competition. The game’s blend of exploration, combat, and puzzle-solving nourishes a sense of discovery, catering to players who savor leisurely yet satisfying gaming sessions. With its lush visuals, compelling characters, and intuitive mechanics, this edition offers an accessible yet richly rewarding experience, ideal for those who appreciate storytelling as much as action.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Have Questions About Horizon Zero Dawn?

What are the basic gameplay mechanics and controls in Horizon Zero Dawn?

Horizon Zero Dawn features a rich blend of action, exploration, and role-playing elements. Players control Aloy, a skilled hunter, as she traverses a lush, post-apocalyptic world populated by robotic creatures. The game uses a third-person perspective, featuring a mix of melee combat and ranged attacks with bows and slingshots, alongside stealth and strategy elements. Mastering the controls involves effectively using Aloy’s Focus device to analyze enemies and utilizing the environment to your advantage.

What are the system requirements or performance considerations for playing Horizon Zero Dawn on PC?

To enjoy Horizon Zero Dawn on PC, you’ll need a system that meets at least the minimum requirements: a Windows 10 OS, an Intel Core i5-2500K or AMD FX 6300 CPU, 8GB of RAM, and an NVIDIA GeForce GTX 780 or AMD Radeon R9 290 graphics card. For an optimal experience, the recommended specs include an Intel Core i7-4770K or Ryzen 5 1500X, 16GB of RAM, and a GeForce GTX 1060 or Radeon RX 580. It’s important to ensure your drivers are up to date to prevent performance issues such as crashes or frame drops.

How long is the story in Horizon Zero Dawn and does it have good replay value?

The main story of Horizon Zero Dawn typically takes around 25 to 30 hours to complete, depending on your playstyle and difficulty setting. For those who enjoy exploring every nook and cranny, engaging in side quests, and discovering all the secrets, the game can easily extend to 60 hours or more. The game offers considerable replay value with its New Game+ mode and multiple difficulty settings, allowing players to experience the story again with enhanced challenges.

Does Horizon Zero Dawn have any multiplayer or online features?

Horizon Zero Dawn is primarily a single-player experience and does not include any multiplayer or online features. The game focuses on delivering a rich narrative and immersive world for players to explore on their own. As a result, the community is more centered around sharing tips, strategies, and fan art rather than multiplayer gameplay.

On which platforms can I play Horizon Zero Dawn, and are there any differences between them?

Horizon Zero Dawn is available on both PlayStation 4 and PC. The PlayStation 4 version includes stunning visuals optimized for the console, while the PC version offers enhanced graphics options such as unlocked frame rates and ultra-wide screen support. The Complete Edition on both platforms includes the Frozen Wilds expansion, adding extra content to the base game. You can purchase the game digitally via the PlayStation Store, Steam, or the Epic Games Store, depending on your platform of choice.

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