Horizon Forbidden West is one of Sony's flagship games for 2022. This sequel to the smash hit Horizon Zero Dawn is here, and fans of Aloy and her robo-dino-destroying exploits have another epic action RPG to enjoy. In this Horizon Forbidden West guide, we're going to answer some common questions about Horizon Forbidden West so you can stay informed about the game.
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Horizon Forbidden West: What Is It?
Horizon Forbidden West is an action RPG developed by Guerrilla Games. It's a direct sequel to Horizon Zero Dawn, picking up where the story left off and continuing the adventures of Aloy in a far-future landscape. The series is known for its iconic protagonist and her journey of self-discovery in a world dominated by machines — lifelike robots that resemble various animals, from deer to birds to dinosaurs. Horizon Forbidden West will have you fighting these dangerous foes, as well as human threats, while you explore an expansive and beautiful open world.
Horizon Forbidden West: What Is the Release Date?
Horizon Forbidden West's release date is 18th February, 2022. It's available now worldwide, both physically and digitally.
Horizon Forbidden West: What Platforms Is It On?
Horizon Forbidden West is available on both PS5 and PS4.
Horizon Forbidden West: What Are the Differences Between the PS5 and PS4 Versions?
The PS5 and PS4 versions of Horizon Forbidden West are, by and large, the same game. You'll play through the same open world, story, and missions regardless of platform. However, the PS5 version will have some advantages over the last-gen version. These include:
- Extra graphical polish thanks to PS5's superior power
- A choice of two visual modes, one focusing on performance (60 frames-per-second) and the other emphasising higher resolution (full 4K) at a lower framerate
- Dramatically reduced loading times
- Support for the DualSense's various features like haptic feedback and adaptive triggers
- 3D audio
- Activity Cards
Horizon Forbidden West: Is There a Free Upgrade from PS4 to PS5?
Yes — those who purchase Horizon Forbidden West on PS4 will be able to claim the digital PS5 version at no additional cost.
Horizon Forbidden West: Does It Support Save Data Transfer from PS4 to PS5?
Yes. Any progress you make in the PS4 version of Horizon Forbidden West can be carried over to the PS5 version. You won't have to start over — you'll be able to pick up where you left off.
Horizon Forbidden West: Is It Coming to PC?
Currently, Horizon Forbidden West is exclusive to PlayStation platforms, available only on PS5 and PS4. However, given Sony's investment into PC ports of its older first-party games, we imagine Horizon Forbidden West will eventually migrate to PC. It'll probably be at least a couple of years before that happens, though.
Horizon Forbidden West: How Much Does It Cost?
Horizon Forbidden West is a full-price game, retailing for the RRP of $69.99/£69.99 on PS5 and $59.99/£59.99 on PS4.
Horizon Forbidden West: Are There Any Pre-Order Bonuses?
On PlayStation Store and at participating retailers, pre-ordering Horizon Forbidden West will earn you a couple of in-game items: the Nora Legacy outfit and the Nora Legacy spear. It's not known if these items afford any gameplay benefits or are merely cosmetic. They will unlock via story progression.
Horizon Forbidden West: Is There a Special Edition?
Yes. In fact, there are multiple ways to purchase Horizon Forbidden West. Here are all the different editions you can buy:
Horizon Forbidden West Standard Edition
This is the bog-standard version of the game, featuring the game itself and nothing more.
Horizon Forbidden West Digital Deluxe Edition
The Digital Deluxe Edition comes with access to the PS5 and PS4 version of the game, as well as two special outfits and matching weapons, in-game resources pack, Apex Clawstrider Machine Strike Piece (for use in the in-universe mini game, Strike), digital art book and soundtrack, and The Sunhawk, a digital graphic novel.
Horizon Forbidden West Special Edition
This physical version of the game comes in a lovely SteelBook case and comes with the digital soundtrack and mini art book.
Horizon Forbidden West Collector's Edition
The Collector's Edition comes with all the benefits of the Digital Deluxe Edition and Special Edition combined, plus some pretty nice Tremortusk and Aloy statues.
Horizon Forbidden West Regalla Edition
The Regalla Edition also packs in all the goodies found in the Digital Deluxe and Special Editions, plus the following: a canvas map, two art cards, two physical Strike playing pieces, replica Focus and stand, and a special Regalla Tremortusk and Aloy statue.
Horizon Forbidden West: What Is the Story?
The story of Horizon Forbidden West picks up six months following the first game's ending. Aloy, who has now learned the history of what happened to the world and how she fits into it, is faced with a new threat. The land is suffering from extreme weather and a mysterious red blight, threatening all life, and no one knows how to stop it. The redhead heroine travels to the Forbidden West, a new and dangerous location full of new threats, both man and machine, to try and stop another mass extinction.
Horizon Forbidden West: Do You Need to Play Horizon Zero Dawn to Understand the Story?
We would definitely recommend playing through the first game, as it establishes a lot about Aloy and the world she inhabits. If you're able to, we suggest playing through Horizon Zero Dawn before starting Horizon Forbidden West.
If you don't have time for that, you can always read our Horizon Zero Dawn: Full Story Recap to get yourself up to speed. All that said, the sequel does cover the major points at the start with a brief summary, but please do check the above story recap for much more detail.
Horizon Forbidden West: Where In the World Does It Take Place?
Like Horizon Zero Dawn, Horizon Forbidden West takes place in a distant future version of the USA. As the sequel's name implies, it brings Aloy to a different part of the country as she heads west. This means we're heading to what remains of Utah, Nevada, and California, and we know for a fact that Aloy will explore the ruins of San Francisco.
Horizon Zero Dawn mostly took place in what we know as Colorado and Utah, with many real-world buildings and landmarks included on the map, so we expect a similarly well-observed open world in Forbidden West.
Horizon Forbidden West: What New Gameplay Features Are There?
The gameplay found in Horizon Forbidden West looks to be largely the same as in the previous game, but there are naturally a few new features and refinements in the sequel.
Firstly, Aloy's melee combat abilities have been seriously upgraded. You'll have many more options when wielding her spear, especially against human enemies. This includes the new Valor Surges — powerful special abilities that build up as you engage in combat. There are also new combat items and options, such as throwing grenades of adhesive that slow down machines.
It seems as though a lot of the game's new features revolve around traversal. Aloy is outfitted with a glider and a grappling hook in the sequel, allowing her to drift from one area to another, and zip up to new vantage points. Another major change is Aloy's improved swimming abilities, letting you explore deep underwater areas.
We also know about an in-universe board game called Machine Strike, which you'll be able to play in the game's larger settlements. Furthermore, you'll be able to upgrade Aloy's equipment and weapons at a work bench.
Horizon Forbidden West: Are There Any New Machines?
Yes, there will be many new Machines to discover and fight in the sequel. Several of them have been revealed already:
- Sunwing: Pterodactyl-like flying machine with solar panel wings
- Tremortusk: A huge, heavily armoured, mammoth-like beast
- Slitherfang: A large, snake-like machine that spits poisonous venom
- Rollerback: An armadillo-like machine that rolls around at high speeds
- Burrower: Akin to the first game's Watchers, this is similar to an otter, and will alert other nearby machines
- Bristleback: A boar-like beast that digs for resources using big tusks
- Clamberjaw: Baboon-like machines that are highly agile and attack in groups
- Clawstrider: These resemble velociraptors and travel in packs. When downed, it's possible to take one over and use it as a mount
- Shellsnapper: This giant tortoise-like machine is a combat unit with a huge protective shell and dangerous water attacks
- Tideripper: An aquatic machine that resembles a plesiosaur. Amphibious, meaning it can attack on land as easily as it can underwater
Are you excited to play Horizon Forbidden West on PS5 and PS4? Tell us in the comments section below, and take a look at our huge Horizon Forbidden West guide for much more.
Comments 53
There you have it guys and gals. Buy the ps4 version. Upgrade to ps5 free. Save $10.
Digital Deluxe PS5 version for me, very excited.
Why don't you list the $79 price for the digital deluxe edition?
If I buy the standard digital PS4 edition for $60 then upgrade to the $70 PS5 standard digital edition can I still play on the PS4?
I have a new PS5 hooked up to my 4k tv, I have my old PS4 Slim hooked up to my old 1080p TV in my kids room. While I doubt we'd ever play at the same time it would be nice if we could so my kid doesn't have to kick me out of my basement to play.
If the $60 digital PS4 edition doesn't let us play at the same time on 2 consoles b/c it gets turned off on the PS4 would the $80 digital deluxe edition let us play on both since the description says it's BOTH the PS4 & PS5 versions?
Digital Deluxe Edition
PS5
Horizon Forbidden West™ PS4 & PS5
The wording on the deluxe ed makes it seem like I'm buying both copies and should be able to play whenever I want on either console.
What I need to know: A review score to check it's not a flop. Other than that nothing, want to go in a blind as possible.
Looking forward to playing this on PS5. Too bad that this game's full potential will be held back by PS4 limitations. But still very much looking forward to playing this.
@lolwhatno To be fair, my kid has never kicked me out of the basement, it's always more like -
Me: "OK, housework is done, what should I do know? Maybe I'll go downstairs and ..."
Kid: sound of running - "Going downstairs to play video games."
Timing is everything, and mine is always off.
I'm old school, I like physical, but I'm getting even older now and I like not having to get off of the couch to swap discs. So I was probably going digital on this 1 anyway, now trying to decide between $60 PS4 version then hopefully upgrade to PS5 yet still be able to lay on PS4, or $80 Deluxe version and maybe be able to play on both consoles at the same time since it's $80. Rest of the digital stuff doesn't really appeal to me. "Extras in Photo Mode". Ye-haw I guess?
Sadly still have a PS4 so actually am looking forward to seeing how much Horizon Forbidden West can push the system until I finally can get my hands on the PS5.
@lolwhatno Oh yeah, I'm sure you're right about that. I've still never seen a PS5 in person and have no intention on playing anything new on my PS4 pro. I'll just keep chipping away at my backlog until the 5 is available to me. And I agree it does sound a little messed up, but there's nothing wrong with wanting to segregate your blues, whites, or greens..
@PenguinL oof yeah that sounds no bueno. I'll probably end up buying the PS5 version anyway because it'll be on sale by the time I see a PS5.
I still can't understand why they're selling a £70 PS5 version. Is it really just to rip people off?
Is there any reason at all why I would want to buy that over the £60 PS4+PS5 version? (I'll buy digital).
It's an amazing game.
We look forward to it.
I don’t buy collectors editions often, but I’m gonna pay the ten extra bucks and get the physical special edition.
All in!!
Collector's Edition pre-ordered.
This will be a great birthday gift! 😎
Can't wait to get my hands on the game and regularly enjoy seeing my Tremortusk 👌
Snagging the Digital Deluxe Version for PS5. Already own a PS5 so there is no need to buy the PS4 version. Plus it comes with the PS4 version. SO A WIN no matter what.
PS5 physical version with bonus pre-ordered for £59.85 and free delivery
@lolwhatno XD XD
I'll be buying the PS5 physical version of course, need to play the best version!
So I buy the cheaper PS4 version physically and then upgrade for free to post the full fat PS5 version. That's dumb. So many people are going to over pay without knowing.
@WexMajor meh it's $10. I want that ps5 case and my ps5 seems to always have two different copies on the home screen when I buy ps4 versions
@PenguinL
That is very annoying, I hate seeing the PS4 version of a disc game constantly asking to be installed, but even more, I hate seeing two icons on the home screen.
This doesn't happen with digital copies though.
@Barryburton97
Nope, it's just to confuse people and hope they buy it on PS5. Plus, the store on the PS5 doesn't show the PS4 version, so you'll only see that on the mobile/PC storefront or the PS4 storefront.
Sony still trying to squeeze that extra $10 out of gamers. 🙄
@Muttt
Exactly what Sony is hoping for.
I pre-ordered the game yesterday! The wait is unbearable.
For all the other Horizon fans out there, do you guys wanna see Aratak again after Frozen Wilds, or is it just me?! A lot of familiar faces are coming back, I'm a little sad there's no sign of him (understandable from a story standpoint though,)
Got to give props to the tribes in this game for coming up with such great names for the machines.
@XOF
I’ve got two main questions that I hope are answered in Forbidden West.
1. Who or What the hell sent that signal that gave the Gaia sub functions true sentience that kicked off the first games events? And is this same entity responsible for the Blight?
2. What is Sylen’s real angle? What’s his ultimate goal. He always gave me early RE Ada Wong vibes. I don’t think he’s an all out villain (although Forbidden West’s marketing is certainly making him out to be one) but he isn’t altruistic either. I want to know what his ultimate goal is.
I think question one will be answered at some point in the game. Question 2, I’m feeling like they’re gonna hold that one until the final act of what seems to be a trilogy.
Also regardless of cost I’m getting the PS5 Special Edition physical. I want a PS5 disc and I want it to be a PS5 case.
@TheRedComet I feel you, your first question really seems to be at the center of Forbidden West (especially with the new trailer and Tilda the new character) so I'm almost sure we'll get a clue, if not a full-blown answer.
As for Sylens, the mystery is really intriguing. To me, at least so far, Sylens sounds like someone like Ted Faro, except minus the "Corporate boss" part. His pursuit of knowledge is definitely going to be either his downfall or humanity's and I think that makes for a good parallel. And I think you're right, he might be something like The Illusive Man from Mass Effect.
I remember the overall premise of the first game and the major story beats, I’m torn between pre playing the first or jumping straight into the sequel.
Leaning toward the sequel so not to be burnt out for it but I regret now not having a replay last year.
@KidBoruto Even if you buy the PS4 physical you can still play the ps5 version. Sony’s just getting greedy.
If you buy the ps5 version you are spending an extra £10 for literally NO reason.
@KidBoruto also it’s explain in this very article you commented on lol. How did you miss that!!!
Mine arrived this morning 😁 already installed it, just got to wait to finish work now, roll on 5pm. Can't wait now, working from home today and so tempted to put it on but have a meeting at 3pm so don't want to play a bit and have to go to merting lol. And got friday anx monday off so going to havr a good session for the next few days
@Daleaf not jealous in the slightest 😂 I'm hoping mine comes today (got despatched yesterday), but going by previous day one purchases I'll be getting it tomorrow or Saturday!
Why does save transfer only work one way in most games? Ubisoft can work both ways with certain games, as does Hitman 3. Is it just laziness?
Got it on order from Currys, not actually been sent yet though, so I won't be playing tomorrow I doubt..
@Waa-Laa haha, yea i never get them early usually, mine was dispatched yesterday too, so might be a good chance for you. Even when i checked amazon this morning it had dispatched, but not out for delivery, then passed the door to make a coffee and there it was 😁 hopefully it arrives today for you too.
@Daleaf I hope you're right 🤞🏻although mine is being delivered by Royal Mail and I don't think they like to break street dates..... They don't mind being late though 🤦🏻♂️
@Waa-Laa mine was royal mail too, im probably getting u all hyped up now then when you get home you will be gutted lol.
Bought PS4 version digitally on PS5 to save me the £10. Only seem to have the PS4 version to download, despite the store description confirming PS5 free upgrade. Any ideas when or how I can claim and download the PS5 version?
@Daleaf nah, just checked my cameras and Royal Mail have been but only looks like bin fodder leaflets 😢 thing is, I have a party to attend tomorrow and I'm busy Saturday so I'll have to wait until sometime Sunday now. Oh well, hope you enjoy the game mate, I know I'm looking forward to it. 👍🏻
@Alfieburns im not 100% sure but im sure i read somewhere that if you buy the ps4 version you have to wait until midnight to be able to download the ps5 version.
@Daleaf Sony don't make it easy do they? Like, why is that a thing? The whole PS4 to PS5 upgrade is a bit of a mess. The fact that they are still selling a PS5 version for £10 more just tells you everything you need to know.
@Alfieburns yea its a bit stupid making you wait to be able to download the ps5 version. Also it would have been better if they just put the ps5 and 4 versions for the same price save all this buy ps4 for cheaper and get ps5 version free, the only people who will buy the ps5 version are those who are unaware or want the ps5 box its just feels a bit stupid to me. But they do make great games so thats the main thing lol.
@Mince I'm buying the physical PS5 version for the PS5 case!
I'm OCD about having the PS5 covers/spines, worth the extra $10 to me personally.
That is my choice as a consumer, despite me "wasting $10".
@KidBoruto To each their own I suppose. Most of my game cases are in a cupboard or just on a shelf somewhere in bedroom, so I would have though about it for just a case.
@KidBoruto I also rent most games to avoid paying more than needed.
@Waa-Laa Synchronising between two save formats is inherently a harder technical challenge than a one-time mono-directional transfer. It's not so much laziness as prioritising stuff that more users will get more out of. There's always more to do, and there are always budgets and deadlines.
I'd bet good money that the only reason Hitman 3 does bi-directional transfer is because VR is only available on the PS4 version. Generally it's expected that 99% of people with both a PS4 and a PS5 are upgrading, never to look back - they'll upgrade their saves on the games they're playing, and then only ever play the PS5 version from then on. The fact that the PS5 version of Hitman 3 is missing a major feature is the only reason they expect players to dive back into the PS4 version in between playing the PS5 one.
[Edit:] I appreciate that some people will have a second console in another room, and that with the pricing and availability of the PS5, there's a strong case for having your second console be the PS4, but this is the exception, not the norm. It's also possible to stream PS5 gameplay to the PS4 over your home network
@theheadofabroom thank you for the detailed reply but it doesn't make sense, Ubisoft can do it with the likes of Far Cry, Watch Dogs and Fenyx so why can't Guerrilla Games? Surely it can't be that hard.
@Waa-Laa It's all that hard, what games have you made?
@theheadofabroom I haven't made any as that's not my profession, but we're talking about multi million dollar companies here 🤷🏻♂️
@Waa-Laa it's not that it's impossible, it's that there are many other things that effort can go to which are likely to be appreciated more by the player-base. I'm sure that in your profession there are plenty of things which would only take a couple of person-months of work to do, but are never going to be a priority versus a worse solution that can be slapped together in a few hours at the end of the project, and will be good enough, if not indistinguishable for 99% of customers.
Hi all. Would appreciate it if anyone could confirm if it's possible to download HORIZON FORBIDDEN WEST PS5 saves from the cloud to the PS4. We have the PS5 in the living room and PS4 Pro in our bedroom and would like to be able to play the same game save on both Systems (obviously at different times). I know you can from PS4 to PS5, but can you do so from PS5 to PS4?
@Liverbirdsarego Seems highly unlikely, but you could always remote play?
@theheadofabroom Yeah it can't be done unfortunately, but I did discover remote play was a thing between PS4 and PS5 and that is working perfectly. Thanks for responding btw
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