Sony has made waves by announcing a new multiplayer game set in the Horizon universe, titled Horizon Hunters Gathering. This game will be available for PlayStation 5 and PC. A closed playtest is set to kick off at the end of February, and you can register through the PlayStation Beta Program. While details on the final release date and pricing remain vague, the game promises exciting features like crossplay and cross-progression.
The trailer showcases a colorful, cartoony art style, which starkly contrasts with the realistic visuals fans expect from the main Horizon series. This change hints at a more lighthearted gameplay experience. Game director Arjan Bak emphasized that the combat will be tactical and skill-based, reminiscent of earlier Horizon games but designed for team play.
Bak highlighted two modes in Horizon Hunters Gathering:
- Machine Incursion: Players face waves of machines, including a challenging boss.
- Cauldron Descent: This multi-stage challenge tests players with unpredictable environments and formidable foes.
Each Hunter has unique skills and weapons, allowing for varied gameplay. There’s also a rogue-lite perk system for personalized builds. Bak noted that the narrative will introduce new stories and characters, and it will expand beyond the initial launch.
Central to the game is a social hub, aptly named “Hunters Gathering.” Here, players can connect, prepare, and customize their characters while celebrating achievements.
Interestingly, there’s another multiplayer title coming up in the Horizon universe—Horizon Steel Frontiers, a mobile MMORPG by NCSoft, made in collaboration with Guerrilla Games. While specifics remain unclear, it’s part of a growing trend in the gaming industry where franchises expand into various formats and platforms.
The excitement around Horizon Hunters Gathering reflects a rising interest in multiplayer gaming. According to recent statistics, about 75% of gamers prefer games that offer social or co-op experiences. This trend highlights a shift in gaming culture towards community engagement and teamwork.
As gaming evolves, it will be fascinating to see how Horizon Hunters Gathering shapes the multiplayer landscape. Stay tuned for more details!
For further updates, check the Sony official PlayStation Blog.
