Horizon Forbidden West: Unlocking the Truth About Cheat Codes
The short answer is a resounding no, there are no traditional cheat codes in Horizon Forbidden West. Unlike some games from previous eras, Guerrilla Games has opted for a different approach to player progression and reward. Forget inputting button combinations or secret phrases; Horizon Forbidden West focuses on rewarding exploration, skillful combat, and strategic resource management. So, while you won’t find any God Mode or unlimited ammo cheats, the game does offer ways to enhance your experience, which we’ll explore further.
What Replaces Cheat Codes in Horizon Forbidden West?
Instead of relying on cheat codes, Horizon Forbidden West presents players with several mechanics that can alter the difficulty and provide advantages:
- New Game Plus (NG+): As the initial article stated, NG+ allows you to carry over previously acquired weapons, skills, and resources into a fresh playthrough. This effectively provides a power boost from the start, making subsequent runs easier. You can then get access to weapons and dyes you did not previously have access to.
- Difficulty Settings: The game offers a range of difficulty settings, from Story Mode to Very Hard. Adjusting these settings can significantly impact enemy damage, health, and aggression, effectively tailoring the challenge to your skill level.
- Skills and Upgrades: Aloy’s skill tree allows you to specialize in different combat styles, unlocking powerful abilities and passive bonuses. Similarly, upgrading your weapons and armor enhances their effectiveness, making you a formidable opponent.
- Weapon and Armor Choices: Selecting the right gear for the job is crucial. Some weapons are more effective against specific machine types, while certain armor sets offer resistance to different damage types. Experimentation is key to finding the optimal loadout for each encounter.
- Exploiting Machine Weaknesses: Each machine in Horizon Forbidden West has unique vulnerabilities. Identifying and exploiting these weaknesses is essential for efficient combat. Using elemental attacks, targeting weak points, and utilizing status effects can turn the tide of battle.
Essentially, Horizon Forbidden West encourages players to engage with its mechanics, rather than bypassing them with cheat codes. This design choice promotes a more rewarding and engaging experience.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are 15 frequently asked questions regarding cheat codes, secret codes, and exploits in Horizon Forbidden West:
1. Are there any secret areas in Horizon Forbidden West?
Yes! As the initial article mentioned, there are several secret areas to discover in Horizon Forbidden West. These hidden locations often contain valuable resources, unique collectibles, or challenging encounters. The castle on the mountain is one such example, accessible with the Sunwing mount. Exploration is heavily rewarded in the game.
2. What are some useful early-game tips and tricks for Horizon Forbidden West?
Focus on completing side quests and errands to gain early XP and resources. Prioritize upgrading your spear and bow. Learn the attack patterns of common machines and exploit their weaknesses. Don’t be afraid to use stealth to your advantage. Craft frequently to keep your supplies stocked.
3. What are the best weapons in Horizon Forbidden West, and how do I obtain them?
The “best” weapon depends on your playstyle and the enemies you’re facing. However, some highly regarded weapons include The Skykiller (Spike Thrower), The Blast Forge (Boltblaster), and Forgefall (Sharpshot Bow). These weapons are typically obtained through completing specific quests, challenges, or purchasing them from merchants. Some may require a certain level to acquire.
4. How do I get unlimited XP and Shards in Horizon Forbidden West?
While there isn’t an “unlimited” method, you can efficiently farm XP and Shards by repeatedly completing certain quests or hunting specific machines. Look for quests with high XP rewards relative to their difficulty. Focus on selling machine parts and resources you don’t need. Utilizing valor surges and weapon techniques can also improve your combat efficiency.
5. What is the code for the Cradle of Echoes in Horizon Forbidden West?
The code for the Cradle of Echoes container is 237. Inputting this code will trigger a cutscene revealing the mysterious “Asset.” This code is consistent across all versions of the game.
6. What are the codes for the locked doors in the Forbidden Legacy Side Quest?
The two six-digit codes required during the Forbidden Legacy Side Quest are:
- First Locked Door Code: 102023
- Second Locked Door Code: 402625
7. What is the red access code in Horizon Forbidden West?
The red access code, used to access a specific lot, is 1705.
8. What is the code for the Restless Weald Relic Ruin?
The code for the Restless Weald Relic Ruin is 1923.
9. What is the code for the Spinebreak door in Horizon Forbidden West?
The door code for the Spinebreak is 2054. This is revealed in the Text Datapoint named “The Other Side.”
10. Where is Stone’s Echo located in Horizon Forbidden West?
Stone’s Echo is located west of Carja Camp and south of Tallneck: Cinnabar Sands.
11. How do I restore power to Cinnabar Sands in Horizon Forbidden West?
To restore power to Cinnabar Sands, locate the Energy Cell on the platform, move it to the lower platform, place it in the generator, and activate the satellite.
12. What is the hardest boss in Horizon Forbidden West?
Many consider Regalla to be the most challenging boss due to her aggressive fighting style and human intelligence. Mastering her attack patterns and exploiting her weaknesses is crucial for victory. However, the Thunderjaw is also a very formidable boss.
13. What is the rarest machine in Horizon Forbidden West?
The Dreadwing is widely considered the rarest and one of the most challenging aerial machines in the game.
14. Are there any romance options in Horizon Forbidden West?
Unfortunately, there are no romance options in Horizon Forbidden West. Aloy does not engage in romantic relationships throughout the game.
15. Does Horizon Forbidden West have DLC, and what does it include?
Yes, Horizon Forbidden West has DLC called Burning Shores. It includes new characters, experiences, and a new area to explore.
Beyond Codes: The Philosophy of Horizon Forbidden West
The absence of traditional cheat codes in Horizon Forbidden West isn’t a mere oversight. It reflects a deliberate design philosophy that prioritizes player engagement, skill-based progression, and meaningful exploration. The developers want players to fully immerse themselves in the world, learn its rules, and overcome its challenges through their own ingenuity and effort.
This approach aligns with the principles of game-based learning, where challenges and rewards are carefully balanced to promote learning and skill development. By mastering the game’s mechanics, players not only progress through the story but also develop valuable problem-solving skills and a deeper understanding of the game world. Games Learning Society, and sites like it, emphasize the educational value of games, highlighting how they can foster critical thinking, creativity, and collaboration. GamesLearningSociety.org promotes the benefits of games, while Horizon Forbidden West exemplifies those benefits through the use of strategic thinking.
While the allure of instant gratification through cheat codes is undeniable, Horizon Forbidden West offers a more sustainable and rewarding path to mastery. By embracing the game’s mechanics, experimenting with different strategies, and persevering through challenges, players can unlock a deeper sense of accomplishment and a more enriching gaming experience. So, leave the cheat codes behind and embrace the challenge – the Forbidden West awaits!