Highlights
- Horizon Forbidden West reveals a malevolent AI threat to Earth, meaning Aloy must save humanity again.
- Guerrilla Games could offer multiple playable protagonists in Horizon 3 to revitalize the gameplay.
- Introducing multiple protagonists could bring fresh perspectives but may complicate the elaborate plot.
The Horizon franchise is far from over. Horizon Forbidden West ends with the threat of a malevolent AI on its way to Earth to extinguish humanity. Once again, it is up to Aloy and her friends to save life on Earth.
With Horizon Forbidden West, Guerrilla Games proved it could start with the baseline of Horizon Zero Dawn and do things bigger and better. However, that may not be enough for Horizon 3. It may be a good idea to switch things up and offer multiple playable protagonists, although this comes with some possible downsides.
Why Horizon Forbidden West’s PC Sales Performance is a Big Deal
Horizon Forbidden West came to Steam just a few weeks ago, and its new wave of success could actually be a much bigger deal than it first seems.
The Pros of Having Multiple Protagonists in Horizon 3
Although Aloy is born and raised as an outcast, she earns a few friends throughout her adventures. This includes folks like the Oseram Erend Vanguardsman, Kotallo from the Tenakth tribe, Alva from the Quen tribe, and even Sylens, a character that continues to be a mysterious figure and something of a rival to Aloy. Playing as one of Aloy’s friends will give players a different perspective on events, as Aloy’s friends are members of varying tribes.
It would also emphasize one of the main themes of the franchise, which is that, despite her upbringing, Aloy is not an outcast, and she is not alone. Most importantly, she cannot do what she needs to accomplish alone, and she needs the help of her friends. There’s a strong cast of characters to choose from, and each of them could offer insight that may not be obvious to Aloy while applying their unique skillsets in new game mechanics.
The Tribes of the Horizon Franchise
There are several tribes Aloy comes across during her journey. Each of the tribes have differing worldviews and ways of living which set them apart. For instance, the sun-worshipping Carja tribe is one of the biggest and most advanced, while the Nora tribe seldom leave their Sacred Land. The fierce Banuk tribe live in The Cut which is snowy, and the Quen are obsessed with the Old Ones and their relics.
The Cons of Having Multiple Protagonists in Horizon 3
Aloy is a beloved character, and she has become one of the most recognizable protagonists in PlayStation’s roster. This is not for nothing. She’s fierce, independent, and unrelenting when it comes to accomplishing her goals. Playing as a different character may be unpopular with players who want to stick with the iconic heroine.
Another problem that arises is that things could get confusing if there are multiple protagonists. The franchise’s plot is complex enough as it is, considering the full story spans centuries and stretches to outer space with the Far Zeniths. Switching away from Aloy and introducing even more perspectives could increase the complexity too much, making the story harder than ever to follow.
What’s in the Horizon Franchise’s Future?
Although a third Horizon game has yet to be officially confirmed, Forbidden West ends on a cliffhanger that all but confirms a threequel is on the way. Guerrilla Games has also confirmed that a multiplayer Horizon game is in development. It will reportedly feature a new cast of characters and a unique stylized look.
There are many directions the third mainline Horizon game could go, and having multiple playable characters is one of the options. It could be a fantastic choice for Guerrilla Games to make if implemented correctly, but there are several potential pitfalls to look out for as well.
Horizon Forbidden West
Aloy returns in the sequel to Horizon Zero Dawn. Forbidden West follows the now iconic machine-hunter as she embarks to the aptly named Forbidden West to attempt to find the source of a powerful plague that is destroying all that it infects.
- Released
- February 18, 2022
- Engine
- Decima
- ESRB
- T for Teen: Blood, Language, Use of Alcohol, Violence
- How Long To Beat
- 29 Hours
- Metascore
- 88
- PS Plus Availability
- Extra & Premium