Horizon Zero Dawn™ Complete Edition

Developer: Guerrilla
Release: Aug 7th 2020
Platforms:
Action
Adventure
RPG
Immersive
Engaging
Beautiful
Repetitive
Occasional Bugs
Horizon Zero Dawn™ Complete Edition Poster

" Immersive action-adventure RPG with tactical machine combat but repetitive side quests "

Horizon Zero Dawn™ Complete Edition Review

Horizon Zero Dawn™ Complete Edition is widely praised for its captivating open world, impressive graphics, and engaging storyline centered on Aloy, a strong protagonist exploring a post-apocalyptic world where nature and machines collide. Players appreciate the game's rich lore, unique setting, and the blend of RPG elements with action and stealth combat.

The game offers a balanced mix of main story quests and side content, with a variety of combat mechanics focusing on exploiting machine weaknesses. The DLC "The Frozen Wilds" is noted for integrating seamlessly with the main story, adding depth and content. However, some players find the pacing uneven, with repetitive side quests and occasional gameplay frustrations.

Technical issues such as save/load problems and crashes have been reported by a minority, but the overall experience is stable and well-optimized on PC. The game appeals especially to fans of exploration, story-driven RPGs, and strategic combat.

Highlights

Players consistently praise the game's stunning visuals and detailed open world, which remains impressive years after release.

The storyline and character development, especially Aloy's journey and the integration of diverse tribal cultures with futuristic elements, receive high acclaim.

Combat mechanics involving tactical use of weapons and disabling machine components are highlighted as fun and satisfying. The game's worldbuilding and atmospheric soundtrack further enhance immersion.

Criticisms

Common criticisms include repetitive and sometimes uninspired side quests that can feel like busywork.

Some players find the dialogue and character interactions occasionally forced or bland, impacting emotional engagement.

Gameplay issues such as restrictive climbing mechanics, inventory management frustrations, and a sometimes cluttered map detract from the experience.

Difficulty spikes and combat balance can frustrate players, especially those preferring a more aggressive playstyle. A small portion report technical problems like save failures and crashes.

Pros

  • Beautifully crafted open world with breathtaking graphics and environments.
  • Engaging and emotional main storyline with strong protagonist Aloy.
  • Unique setting blending primitive tribes and futuristic machines.
  • Tactical combat focused on exploiting machine weaknesses and components.
  • Seamless integration of DLC content enhancing the main narrative.
  • Rich worldbuilding with diverse cultures and lore.
  • Satisfying crafting and gear customization systems.

Cons

  • Repetitive side quests that can feel like tedious busywork.
  • Dialogue and character interactions sometimes feel forced or bland.
  • Restrictive climbing mechanics and invisible walls limit exploration.
  • Inventory management can be cumbersome due to limited capacity.
  • Combat difficulty spikes frustrating for some playstyles.
  • Map can be cluttered and overwhelming to navigate.
  • Some technical issues reported including save/load failures and crashes.

Rating Criteria

Story
Difficulty
Graphics
Duration
Stability
Worth the Price
Capsule image

Experience Aloy’s legendary quest to unravel the mysteries of a future Earth ruled by Machines. Use devastating tactical attacks against your prey and explore a majestic open world in this award-winning action RPG!

Release Date Aug 7th 2020
Publisher PlayStation Publishing LLC
Developer Guerrilla
Required Age 12+
Platforms

User Reviews

Very Positive (50,820)
90% Positive 10% Negative