Sony has officially unveiled Guerrilla Games’ new multiplayer live service title, Horizon Hunters Gathering, slated for release on PlayStation 5 and PC. A limited closed playtest is scheduled for late February, with registration available through the PlayStation Beta Program. While there’s currently no confirmed release date or pricing model, players can anticipate features such as crossplay and cross-progression.
The debut trailer showcases the game’s distinct cartoony art style, a departure from the photorealistic aesthetics of the mainline Horizon series, suggesting a more whimsical approach akin to popular games like Monster Hunter. In a PlayStation Blog post, game director Arjan Bak explained that players will engage in tactical three-player co-op battles against dangerous machines, emphasizing a skill-based combat system built on the tactical foundation of previous Horizon titles.
Bak elaborated on two key game modes: Machine Incursion, which involves intense missions where players face waves of machines and a powerful boss, and Cauldron Descent, a multi-stage trial featuring dynamic environments and fierce machine encounters. Both modes are set to be featured in the upcoming playtest.
Players can choose from various Hunters, each equipped with unique melee or ranged fighting styles and weapons, alongside a rogue-lite perk system for personalized builds. Bak hinted at a narrative campaign that promises to introduce new characters, threats, and mysteries, affirming that the game’s story is canon and will continue to evolve post-launch.
The social element is highlighted through the vibrantly crafted hub, Hunters Gathering, where players can connect, customize their characters, manage gear upgrades, and prepare for upcoming quests.
In addition to Horizon Hunters Gathering, there are plans for another multiplayer experience set within the Horizon universe: a mobile MMORPG titled Horizon Steel Frontiers, currently in development by NCSoft, which promises close collaboration with Guerrilla Games. Meanwhile, the highly anticipated Horizon 3 remains in the works, with expectations set for a possible release in late 2024. Additionally, Sony is aiming to start production on a live-action adaptation of Horizon Zero Dawn this year, targeted for release in 2027, further expanding the franchise’s reach.
As excitement builds around these diverse offerings in the Horizon series, fans can look forward to new adventures in a familiar yet fresh gameplay environment.