Horizon Zero Dawn took the world by storm when it debuted on PlayStation 4 consoles in February 2017. Developed by Guerrilla Games and published by Sony Interactive Entertainment, the new IP was well-received by critics and fans, proving that the Dutch-based studio could make more than just Killzone games.
In August 2020, Horizon Zero Dawn finally came to PC with the previously released The Frozen Wilds expansion content as one complete package. Fast-forward to this past September and the announcement of Horizon Zero Dawn Remastered for PlayStation 5 consoles and PC. Is this the definitive way to experience Aloy’s first adventure? Before we answer that question, let’s briefly dive into what this game is and what new players to the series can expect.
An Epic Adventure
Horizon Zero Dawn is a third-person perspective action role-playing game set in a post-apocalyptic world. The story revolves around the lead protagonist Aloy, a hunter cast out of the Nora tribe at birth and on a quest for self-discovery while navigating a hostile environment filled with machines. Players can expect plenty of action and a gripping storyline to keep them on the edge of their seats.
Nothing of major significance has been added to the storyline for this remaster, which makes sense. Aloy is a popular character whose ongoing storyline is some of Guerrilla Games’ best work. If you didn’t play this game several years ago and own a PS5 or PC, this remaster is a great starting point before diving into Horizon Forbidden West.
Exploring Mother’s Heart And Beyond
Horizon Zero Dawn already looked spectacular when it launched several years ago. Making full use of the Decima engine and implementing techniques learned from developing Horizon Forbidden West, Guerilla Games ups the ante for Horizon Zero Dawn Remastered by making several key improvements.
For starters, foilage-enhanced environments, upgraded terrain and buildings, and improved world and cinematic lighting have all been added to this remaster. Additional NPCs are now found conducting activities throughout various settings. Character models are also more detailed thanks to new facial and body animations aided by over 10 hours of motion-captured footage. This meticulous attention to detail allows players to feel even more immersed in this world unlike ever before.
As expected, Horizon Zero Dawn Remastered is fully supported by the DualSense controller. Players will feel every vibration of Aloy’s adventure from start to finish right in the palm of their hands. There weren’t any noticeable gameplay improvements beyond this as the main changes come from the visual enhancements I detailed above.
Guerrila’s decision to focus primarily on upgrading the visual aesthetics from the original game makes sense for this remaster. Given how outstanding Horizon Forbidden West looked and felt on PS5, there certainly was an opportunity to explore which results in a game that feels very much equal to its predecessor. I look forward to seeing how they will build upon this world even further in future installments.
Final Verdict
Horizon Zero Dawn Remastered is a solid remaster and the definitive way to experience Aloy’s origin story if you haven’t done so already. If you played the original game this remaster may be a harder sell. Regardless, if you have a PS4, PC, or PS5, this game is worth checking out.
This review was written based on a digital review copy of Horizon Zero Dawn Remastered for PlayStation 5 provided by Sony Interactive Entertainment.
