Guerrilla Games’ 2017 masterpiece, Horizon Zero Dawn, has been revitalized with a remastered edition for PlayStation 5 and PC, offering both newcomers and returning players an enhanced journey through its post-apocalyptic landscape.
Visual Enhancements
The remaster elevates the game’s already impressive visuals to new heights. Character models exhibit increased detail, with lifelike skin textures and intricate armor designs. The environment benefits from dynamic lighting and more realistic foliage, creating a vibrant and immersive world. These improvements bring the game’s graphics on par with its sequel, Horizon Forbidden West.
Performance Upgrades
Players can choose between performance modes, including options for 30, 40, and 60 frames per second on PC, ensuring smooth gameplay tailored to individual preferences. The PlayStation 5 version offers a consistent 60 FPS experience. These enhancements make combat and exploration more fluid and responsive.
DualSense Integration
The PlayStation 5’s DualSense controller features are fully utilized, with adaptive triggers and haptic feedback adding a tactile dimension to gameplay. Drawing Aloy’s bow or setting traps feels more immersive, enhancing the overall experience.
Audio Improvements
The remaster boasts a revamped sound mix, supporting 3D audio for a more immersive auditory experience. Over 10 hours of in-game dialogue have been re-recorded, improving the quality of character interactions and storytelling.
Accessibility Features
In line with modern gaming standards, the remaster includes a suite of accessibility options, such as remappable controls and haptic cues, ensuring a more inclusive experience for all players.
Additional Content
This edition includes the critically acclaimed Frozen Wilds expansion, offering additional narrative and gameplay content that delves deeper into Aloy’s story and the game’s rich lore.
Conclusion
Horizon Zero Dawn Remastered stands as the definitive edition of an already exceptional game. With its visual and performance enhancements, along with thoughtful integration of new technologies, it offers a compelling reason to (re)experience Aloy’s adventure. Existing owners can upgrade for a nominal fee, making it an accessible enhancement for returning players.