Written by Lunar_95
Horizon Zero Dawn was developed by Guerrilla Games and released on February 28th, 2017. The game takes place in a post-apocalyptic world where robotic creatures roam the earth, and humanity has regressed to tribal societies. The world is breathtaking, from dense forests to ruined cities overrun by nature. The contrast between the lush environment and mechanical foes creates a captivating, dynamic world.
You play as Aloy, a young woman raised by the Nora tribe, who embarks on a journey to uncover the mysteries of her origins and the world around her. As you explore, you uncover secrets about ancient human civilization and the robotic creatures that threaten your existence. Your goal is to uncover the truth about the machines while battling mechanical beasts, solving puzzles, and gaining allies in a world on the brink of collapse.
The game features open-world exploration with a focus on ranged combat, stealth, and crafting. Aloy uses a variety of weapons, including a bow and arrow, to hunt robotic enemies. Combat involves strategy as each machine has unique weaknesses that you must exploit to survive. What makes Horizon Zero Dawn stand out is its engaging combat and exploration. The ability to override and control certain machines adds a layer of strategy, and the open-world is full of variety and surprises.
Aloy can level up and upgrade her skills to gain new abilities that enhance combat, exploration, and survival. Crafting plays a big role, as you gather resources to improve your gear and weapons. The game's unique setting of robotic creatures in a world reclaimed by nature provides a fascinating dynamic, and the story's blend of mystery, ancient technology, and tribal society is deeply engaging.
Horizon Zero Dawn is a beautifully crafted open-world adventure that combines rich storytelling with engaging gameplay. The mix of exploration, combat, and mystery makes it a standout title in the genre. I rate this game as "Above-average" on our five-tiered scale (Bad, Below Average, Average, Above Average, Excellent).