Horizon’s Future: Co-op Focus and the Long Wait for Horizon 3
The announcement of Horizon Hunters Gathering initially excited many fans, particularly due to Guerrilla Games’ emphasis on the game being fully canon within the Horizon universe. However, recent reports have tempered that enthusiasm, suggesting a shift in studio priorities.
Developers Shifted to Support Co-op Title
Sources speaking with Kotaku indicate that Guerrilla Games has reassigned developers from Horizon 3 to assist with Hunters Gathering. While the studio previously indicated a commitment to single-player games, the next major solo adventure featuring Aloy appears to be on hold.
Is Horizon 3 Years Away?
A second source suggests that Horizon 3 could be three to five years away. This timeline would potentially align the game with a new generation of hardware. Rumors point to Sony aiming to launch the PlayStation 6 around 2027, positioning Horizon 3 as a potential cross-generation or even next-generation title.
This strategy isn’t unprecedented. Horizon Forbidden West was released on both PS4 and PS5 in 2022, and Sony has demonstrated a willingness to employ this approach with major first-party releases.
Hunters Gathering Takes Center Stage
Currently, Horizon Hunters Gathering appears to be the primary Horizon project. The co-op game will feature a closed playtest on PS5 and PC later this month, allowing players to experience three different Hunters. While a release date remains unconfirmed, Guerrilla has confirmed post-launch support, including additional story content.
The Rise of Co-op and the Evolving AAA Landscape
The shift towards a co-op focused Horizon title reflects a broader trend in the AAA gaming space. Developers are increasingly exploring cooperative experiences, driven by player demand and the potential for increased engagement and monetization.
This move also highlights the challenges of maintaining a consistent release schedule for large-scale, single-player games. Development cycles are lengthening, and studios are often forced to balance multiple projects simultaneously.
Impact on Single-Player Narratives
The delay of Horizon 3 raises questions about the future of single-player narratives in AAA gaming. While co-op experiences offer unique benefits, they often require a different design philosophy than story-driven adventures. Maintaining a compelling narrative within a cooperative framework can be a significant challenge.
Horizon Hunters Gathering: What We Grasp
Horizon Hunters Gathering is a cooperative action game for PS5 and PC, allowing up to three players to team up as Hunters to defend a world threatened by deadly machines. Combat is described as tactical, reactive, and skill-based, building upon the precision of previous Horizon games while incorporating team dynamics. The game centers around challenging and replayable hunts, with a vibrant social hub for players to meet, prepare, and customize their Hunters.
FAQ
Q: Will Aloy be playable in Horizon Hunters Gathering?
A: No, players will select from a roster of unique Hunters, each with different abilities and weapons.
Q: Is Horizon Hunters Gathering a fully canon story?
A: Yes, Guerrilla Games has confirmed that Hunters Gathering is a fully canon story and will be updated post-launch.
Q: When can we expect Horizon 3?
A: Current estimates suggest a release window of three to five years, potentially aligning with the launch of the PlayStation 6.
Q: What platforms will Horizon Hunters Gathering be available on?
A: Horizon Hunters Gathering will launch on both PS5 and PC.
Stay tuned for more updates on Horizon Hunters Gathering and the future of the Horizon franchise. Explore our other articles for more gaming news and analysis. Sign up for our newsletter to receive the latest updates directly to your inbox.
