Horizon: Zero Dawn Review - Beautiful. Thrilling. One of my all-time top games.
I came to Horizon: Zero Dawn late—several years late, in fact. It wasn't until a buddy of mine turned me on to the game that I even knew it existed.
The concept seemed a bit strange, if intriguing. As an epic fantasy writer, I naturally tend toward fantasy settings, and though Horizon is solidly science fiction, it felt like sci-fi treated with fantasy gloves. Machine hunting via bow and arrow, different elements acting almost as a magic system, a tribalistic, naturalistic society—I was quickly convinced this could be a game I enjoyed.
Boy, did I underestimate how much I'd love it.
First off, the visuals are absolutely stunning. From the environment to the lighting to the characters and machines, they all contribute to make this version of Earth a fantastical place indeed.
Then there's the gameplay. I'd never played anything like it, nor have I still (other than its sequels). It's dynamic, exciting, challenging, yet ultimately rewarding while refraining from being frustrating (unless I've chosen to challenge myself with the ridiculously difficult hard modes). Even having played Forbidden West now, Zero Dawn holds its own in terms of combat.
But what really makes the game have a lasting impact are its characters and relationships, and its world steeped in stories. Aloy herself is a poignant and enthralling character. From the first moment we follow her as a child, I was invested in this inquisitive, competent, and tough individual. I think often of her discovery in the ruins ("Daddy sure does love his little big man.") and how it touches on the thing she's missing most at that point in time: a sense of belonging.
Aloy's character development doesn't slow down for the rest of the story, either. You have to admire her tenacity as she takes on her society, then the world at large, never slowing no matter the setback she faces. In fact, I love her character so much she was the inspiration for a protagonist in one of my books, The Last Ranger.
There are only a few things that hold back Horizon: Zero Dawn for me, and they're fairly minor. I'll admit to tiring of some of the repetitive side aspects to the game, and some of the side quests were less enthralling than others. But none of these truly detract from this towering success of a game.
If you haven't played Horizon: Zero Dawn yet, do yourself a favor and snatch up a copy. You're in for the adventure of a lifetime.
As I alluded to above, I’ve written a fantasy book series inspired by the Horizon games called Ranger of the Titan Wilds. Learn more about the series or pick up your copies through the button below!