Horizon Forbidden West Complete Edition stands out as an action RPG that transports players to a post-apocalyptic world filled with mechanical beasts and ancient mysteries. In this PC version, you step into the role of Aloy, a skilled hunter navigating vast landscapes threatened by environmental catastrophes and hostile machines. The game emphasizes exploration, strategic combat, and narrative depth, making it a compelling choice for those who enjoy open-world adventures with RPG progression.
Gameplay
At its core, Horizon Forbidden West revolves around third-person action where Aloy uses a mix of ranged weapons like bows and slings alongside melee attacks to take down robotic enemies. Combat requires scanning machines to identify weak points, then exploiting them with elemental arrows or traps for efficient takedowns. Exploration plays a huge role, with players climbing towering structures, swimming through underwater ruins, and gliding across terrains using tools like the Pullcaster or Shieldwing.
RPG elements shine through in the skill tree system, divided into branches such as Warrior for close-quarters fighting, Trapper for setting ambushes, and Infiltrator for stealth approaches. Crafting and upgrading gear is essential, involving gathering resources from defeated machines or the environment to improve weapons and outfits. The game also features override mechanics, allowing Aloy to hack certain machines and turn them into mounts or allies during battles.
Game Modes
This title focuses on a single-player campaign that unfolds through a main storyline, complemented by numerous side quests and activities. Players can engage in hunting grounds challenges that test combat skills against timed machine hunts, or participate in melee pits to hone fighting techniques against human opponents.
For those seeking replayability, New Game+ mode lets you carry over progress into a fresh playthrough with adjusted difficulties, while an arena mode offers coliseum-style battles against waves of enemies for rewards.
World and Factions
The Forbidden West introduces diverse biomes ranging from lush forests to arid deserts, each populated by unique tribes with their own cultures and conflicts. Factions like the Tenakth, known for their warrior clans, and the Utaru, who emphasize harmony with nature, play key roles in the story. Aloy must navigate alliances and rivalries among these groups to uncover secrets tied to the world's decay.
Mechanics extend to environmental interactions, such as using the Focus device to scan surroundings for clues or hidden paths, adding layers to puzzle-solving and lore discovery.
Is It Worth Playing?
With an 87% positive rating from over 10,000 user reviews, Horizon Forbidden West Complete Edition has earned strong praise for its visuals, story, and combat on PC. The port includes technical enhancements like DLSS 3 support and unlocked frame rates, ensuring smooth performance on compatible hardware.
If you thrive on action RPGs with deep world-building and tactical fights against massive foes, this game delivers a satisfying experience. It's particularly appealing for solo players who appreciate narrative-driven titles, though it might feel overwhelming for those preferring shorter, linear games. The inclusion of the Burning Shores expansion extends the adventure, making it a solid pick for fans of the genre.
