Does Horizon Forbidden West Deluxe Edition Include DLC?
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The short answer is: partially. The Deluxe Edition of Horizon Forbidden West includes the base game and Season Pass One, but not all DLC released for the game. Specifically, it does not include the Burning Shores DLC, which is a separate, paid expansion. To get the complete Horizon Forbidden West experience with all DLC, you’d need to purchase the Complete Edition or buy the Burning Shores DLC separately in addition to the Deluxe Edition.
Understanding Horizon Forbidden West Editions and DLC
Navigating the world of video game editions and downloadable content (DLC) can feel like traversing a dense jungle. With various versions offering different perks and add-ons, it’s crucial to understand what you’re getting before you invest your hard-earned money. In the case of Horizon Forbidden West, several editions exist, each with a different package of goodies. Understanding the differences will help you choose the version that best suits your needs.
The Standard Edition
This is the most basic version of the game. It includes only the base game: Horizon Forbidden West. If you’re simply looking to experience the core story and gameplay without any extra frills, the Standard Edition is a perfectly fine choice.
The Deluxe Edition
The Deluxe Edition offers more than just the base game. It includes:
- The Base Game
- Season Pass One
- The Carja Behemoth Elite and Nora Thunder Elite outfits.
- The Carja Behemoth Short Bow and Nora Thunder Sling weapons.
- The Nora Legacy outfit and spear.
- An In-Game Resources Pack including ammunition, potions, and travel packs.
While the Deluxe Edition provides some enticing extras, remember that it does not come with all DLC. It gets you some additional content but you will be missing out.
The Complete Edition
As the name suggests, the Complete Edition is the most comprehensive offering. It bundles the base game with all available DLC, ensuring you experience the entirety of Aloy’s journey in the Forbidden West and beyond. This includes:
- The Base Game
- Burning Shores DLC
- All the digital goodies found in the Deluxe Edition
The Burning Shores DLC
The Burning Shores DLC is a significant expansion to the Horizon Forbidden West storyline. It takes Aloy to a new region – the ruins of Los Angeles – and introduces new characters, machines, and challenges. Crucially, it’s a separate purchase unless you opt for the Complete Edition. It is only available on PS5.
Why Choose the Right Edition?
Choosing the right edition depends on your gaming preferences and budget.
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For the Minimalist: The Standard Edition is ideal if you want the core experience without extra costs.
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For the Value Seeker: The Deluxe Edition provides extra in-game items and content beyond the base game, but it will not allow you to play the Burning Shores DLC.
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For the Completionist: The Complete Edition ensures you have access to all content, including the crucial Burning Shores DLC, for the most immersive experience.
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For the DLC Lover: If you purchase the standard or deluxe edition, but really love Horizon and want more, you can purchase the DLC.
The Importance of DLC in Gaming
Downloadable content has become a staple in modern gaming. DLC allows developers to extend the lifespan of a game, adding new storylines, characters, gameplay mechanics, and sometimes even entirely new regions to explore. DLC can enrich the gaming experience and offer players additional value for their investment.
The Burning Shores DLC, for example, not only expands the map and introduces new challenges but also delves deeper into Aloy’s character development, offering insights into her relationships and motivations.
Games can be used for learning as well. To further research the power of games, explore resources from the Games Learning Society at GamesLearningSociety.org.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What exactly is DLC?
DLC stands for Downloadable Content. It’s additional content, such as new storylines, characters, items, or maps, that you can add to a video game after its initial release.
2. How much does the Burning Shores DLC cost?
The Burning Shores DLC typically costs around $20-$25. Prices may vary depending on your region and platform.
3. Do I need Horizon Forbidden West to play Burning Shores?
Yes, you absolutely need the base game, Horizon Forbidden West, to play the Burning Shores DLC. The DLC continues the story after the events of the main game. You have to complete the main story of Horizon Forbidden West to access the Burning Shores quests.
4. Is the Burning Shores DLC available on PS4?
No, the Burning Shores DLC is exclusively available on the PlayStation 5 (PS5).
5. How long does it take to beat the Burning Shores DLC?
The Burning Shores DLC typically takes around 8-10 hours to complete the main storyline. Completionists who explore every nook and cranny can expect to spend considerably longer.
6. What level should I be before starting Burning Shores?
The recommended level for the first Burning Shores quest is 38, but the final quest is around level 50. However, having the Burning Shores DLC installed increases the game’s level cap to 60.
7. Does the Complete Edition include anything not available separately?
No, the Complete Edition doesn’t include any exclusive content. It’s simply a bundle containing the base game and all currently released DLC.
8. Can I upgrade from the Standard Edition to the Complete Edition?
Yes, you can upgrade by purchasing the Burning Shores DLC separately and downloading any digital bonuses you want. Alternatively, you can purchase the Complete Edition.
9. What happens if I buy the Deluxe Edition and then the Burning Shores DLC?
You will have the same content as the Complete Edition. You will have both the base game, additional weapons and outfits and the ability to continue the story through the Burning Shores DLC.
10. Is Horizon Forbidden West likely to get another DLC expansion?
While it’s always possible, it seems unlikely that Horizon Forbidden West will receive a second DLC expansion. Horizon Zero Dawn, the first game in the series, only had one major DLC (The Frozen Wilds).
11. What are some of the new features in the Burning Shores DLC?
The Burning Shores DLC introduces new characters, machines, storylines, and gameplay mechanics. One of the most notable additions is the ability to fly on a Sunwing mount, making traversing the new region much faster and more enjoyable.
12. What if I pre-ordered Horizon Forbidden West? How do I claim my pre-order bonuses?
Once you reach the open world, visit any Stash location and collect your pre-order bonus items from the Weapons and Outfits tabs.
13. Is the Burning Shores DLC worth the price?
Whether the Burning Shores DLC is worth the price depends on your personal preferences. If you enjoyed Horizon Forbidden West and are eager for more Aloy adventures, new challenges, and a compelling story extension, then it’s likely a worthwhile purchase.
14. Why can’t I start the Burning Shores DLC?
Ensure you have completed the main story of Horizon Forbidden West. The DLC only becomes accessible after finishing the main narrative.
15. Where does the Burning Shores DLC take place?
The Burning Shores DLC takes place in the ruins of Los Angeles, a new region south of the Tenakth Clan Lands.