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Can You Upgrade Your Spear in Horizon? A Comprehensive Guide

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The Horizon series, known for its stunning visuals, intricate storylines, and engaging gameplay, often leaves players wondering about the specifics of upgrading their equipment. One question that frequently surfaces is: Can you upgrade your spear in Horizon? The answer depends on which game in the series you’re playing. Let’s break it down.

In Horizon Zero Dawn, you can upgrade Aloy’s spear. This is initially achieved after completing the “In Her Mother’s Footsteps” quest. However, the most significant upgrades become available in The Frozen Wilds DLC.

In Horizon Forbidden West, the spear’s upgrade path is different. You cannot upgrade the spear at Workbenches. Instead, you enhance its capabilities by unlocking Skills from your Warrior Skill Tree. This allows you to improve the spear’s overall stats and effectiveness.

Horizon Zero Dawn Spear Upgrades

Early Game Upgrades

The first opportunity to improve your spear in Horizon Zero Dawn comes fairly early in the game. Completing the “In Her Mother’s Footsteps” side quest, given by Thok, grants you the ability to modify the spear. This involves adding modifications that boost its damage and other attributes.

The Frozen Wilds DLC Spear Upgrades

The real game-changer for the spear in Horizon Zero Dawn is The Frozen Wilds DLC. This expansion introduces Kamut, who provides access to further spear enhancements. To unlock this functionality, you need to obtain a “Rail Part” and speak to Kamut. Once that’s done, the process of upgrading the spear becomes similar to upgrading any other weapon, with two modification slots available. You can access these slots via the Crafting tab in your menu.

Spear Modification Process

Upgrading your spear involves collecting artifact fragments, which are earned by hunting down Cultists within the DLC area. Once you’ve gathered enough fragments, return to the Ancient Forge on Andros (the one visited during the “Memories Awoken” quest) to perform the upgrade.

Horizon Forbidden West Spear Enhancements

Skill Tree Progression

As mentioned, Horizon Forbidden West takes a different approach to spear enhancements. Instead of physical upgrades at workbenches, you improve your spear’s performance by unlocking Skills from the Warrior Skill Tree. These skills can significantly boost the spear’s damage output and provide other combat-related benefits.

Spear Charging Mechanic

One notable aspect of the spear in Horizon Forbidden West is its charging mechanic. As Aloy attacks enemies (both human and machine), the spear accumulates charge, changing color from purple to blue. This indicates that the spear is ready to unleash a more powerful attack.

Oseram Artificer Armor

To further enhance Aloy’s spear-based combat in Horizon Forbidden West, consider acquiring the Oseram Artificer armor. This legendary armor set is designed to maximize melee damage and provides bonuses to power attacks, resonator buildup, and enemy energizing effects. When fully upgraded, the Oseram Artificer set offers the highest melee stats in the game.

FAQs About Spear Upgrades in Horizon

Here are 15 frequently asked questions about upgrading your spear in the Horizon series:

Can Aloy get a better spear in Horizon Zero Dawn?

Yes, Aloy can upgrade her spear in Horizon Zero Dawn, enhancing its permanent damage and adding other benefits. The best enhancements come with The Frozen Wilds DLC.
How do I modify my spear in Horizon Zero Dawn?

After completing the “In Her Mother’s Footsteps” quest and obtaining the “Rail Part” in The Frozen Wilds, talk to Kamut. This unlocks the ability to upgrade the spear using modification slots accessible through the crafting menu.
What are artifact fragments used for in Horizon Zero Dawn?

Artifact fragments are collected by hunting down Cultists in The Frozen Wilds. They are used to upgrade the spear at the Ancient Forge on Andros.
Is there only one spear in Horizon Forbidden West?

There is essentially one spear in Horizon Forbidden West, though its capabilities can be significantly altered through skill tree upgrades and armor choices. There are 3 different ones (unless the melee upgrade from the Enduring turns the spear rarity a different color, then it could technically be counted as a fourth).
How does the spear charging mechanic work in Horizon Forbidden West?

As Aloy attacks enemies, the spear accumulates charge, changing from purple to blue. A fully charged spear attack deals significantly more damage.
What is the best armor for enhancing spear combat in Horizon Forbidden West?

The Oseram Artificer armor is the best choice for maximizing melee damage and enhancing spear combat in Horizon Forbidden West.
Can you buy a new spear in Horizon games?

No, you cannot buy a new spear in either Horizon Zero Dawn or Horizon Forbidden West. Aloy’s spear is a unique, story-related weapon that can only be upgraded or enhanced.
What’s the total length of Aloy’s spear?

The total length of Aloy’s spear is approximately 59 inches, although this can be scaled to fit different needs, such as for cosplay or replica crafting.
How old is Aloy in Horizon Forbidden West?

Aloy is estimated to be 19 or 20 years old in Horizon Forbidden West, as the game takes place about six months after the events of Horizon Zero Dawn.
What is Aloy’s best weapon overall?

While Aloy has access to numerous powerful weapons, the best choice depends on your play style. However, combining the Oseram Artificer armor with a well-upgraded spear can make her a formidable melee combatant.
What is the rarest machine to encounter in Horizon Forbidden West?

The Dreadwing is considered one of the rarest and most challenging aerial machines in Horizon Forbidden West.
Are there any secret codes to unlock areas in Horizon Forbidden West?

Yes, there are codes needed for certain side quests. For example, the Forbidden Legacy side quest requires two six-digit codes: 102023 for the first door and 402625 for the second door.
Is the upgraded spear worth the effort in Horizon Zero Dawn?

Absolutely. The upgraded spear is a valuable weapon, especially when dealing with close-quarters combat and tougher enemies. It’s also useful for hunting and gathering.
What can you create with the upgraded spear in Horizon Zero Dawn?

With the upgraded spear, you can combine two Cloth and one Booze to create an explosive spear, which acts as a Molotov cocktail and can impale targets.
How does the Games Learning Society related to Horizon?

While seemingly unrelated, the intricate world-building and problem-solving elements within games like Horizon offer valuable learning experiences. The Games Learning Society (GamesLearningSociety.org) explores the intersection of games and education, recognizing the potential for games to foster critical thinking, collaboration, and creativity. The Games Learning Society delves into how games can be effectively used as educational tools. The website also researches how games and simulations can enhance learning outcomes and professional development, aligning with the complex problem-solving skills that games like Horizon cultivate.

Conclusion

While the mechanics differ between Horizon Zero Dawn and Horizon Forbidden West, the ability to enhance Aloy’s spear is a crucial part of the gameplay experience. Whether you’re upgrading it with modifications in Horizon Zero Dawn or unlocking skills in Horizon Forbidden West, improving the spear is essential for overcoming the challenges of the Horizon world. Understanding these upgrade paths will ensure that Aloy is always ready for whatever dangers lie ahead.