Was Sylens a Banuk? Unraveling the Enigma of Horizon’s Most Complex Character
The short answer is yes, but with a significant caveat. Sylens was originally a Banuk. However, his time among them was marked by a deep fascination with knowledge, particularly of the Old Ones, which ultimately led him down a different path. He is not a conventional Banuk member, adhering to their shamanistic traditions only insofar as it suited his purposes. While his appearance, particularly the blue cables stitched into his skin, strongly suggests a Banuk origin, his motivations and actions set him far apart from the tribe’s usual customs.
Sylens’ Banuk Origins: A Shaman’s Deception
Sylens’ connection to the Banuk is deeply rooted in his past. As a young man driven by an insatiable thirst for knowledge, he ventured into Ban-Ur, the territory of the Banuk tribe and the main setting for the “Frozen Wilds” DLC in Horizon Zero Dawn. He presented himself as a shaman hailing from Owl’s Watch, a northern Banuk group that rarely visited Ban-Ur. His claims as a shaman were, at least partially, true. The blue cables that adorn his face are indeed a custom among Banuk shamans, signifying an attempt to contain the ‘Blue Light’ within.
His Banuk origins are further reinforced by Ourea in The Frozen Wilds DLC. When Aloy becomes the Werak chieftain, inquiring about Sylens with Ourea will reveal this connection. She confirms that the individual known as Sylens was once a Banuk shaman. This crucial piece of information directly links his identity to the tribe.
However, Sylens used his Banuk background as a means to an end. He leveraged the tribe’s belief system, particularly the shamanistic practices, to gain trust and access to information. While his appearance and claims placed him within the Banuk structure, his personal ambition to uncover and exploit ancient technology fundamentally separated him from his purported tribe.
The Quest for Knowledge Beyond Tradition
Sylens’ true allegiance wasn’t to the Banuk, but to knowledge itself. His time among them served only to further his goals, using their culture and practices as a stepping stone. This self-serving focus on knowledge eventually led him away from any tribal affiliation, transforming him into the enigmatic and independent figure we see in the Horizon series. While Sylens’ early life saw him as a Banuk shaman, his later actions suggest he no longer identifies with or adheres to their ways. He retains the physical markings as a nod to his past but not the philosophical or tribal loyalty of one. He is, therefore, an ex-Banuk, a distinction of vital importance.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Sylens and the Banuk
Here are 15 frequently asked questions about Sylens, covering his past and connection to the Banuk tribe and more:
1. What tribe is Sylens really from?
While he initially presents himself as a shaman from Owl’s Watch, a Banuk group, his actions and motivations demonstrate he is primarily loyal to himself and his pursuit of knowledge. His actual tribal identity is essentially dissolved as he becomes a self-serving entity. His beginnings were Banuk, but he is no longer aligned with them in any meaningful way.
2. Is Sylens human?
Yes, Sylens is undoubtedly human. He is described as one of the most intelligent humans in the post-apocalyptic world of Horizon, possessing a vast understanding of the Old Ones. His humanity is never in question.
3. What is the significance of the blue cables on Sylens’ head and face?
The blue cables are a customary practice of Banuk shamans, reflecting their attempt to channel and contain the ‘Blue Light,’ which they associate with spiritual power. Sylens adopts this practice to appear as a legitimate shaman, despite his own motives.
4. Why did Sylens steal HADES?
Sylens did not “steal” HADES in the way one might imagine. He instead discovered HADES, and as the sentient AI held vast knowledge, Sylens sought to extract this knowledge by restoring a network of Focuses. This allowed him to study HADES and learn from the Old Ones’ secrets.
5. Is Sylens more intelligent than Aloy?
Sylens is undeniably extremely intelligent and cunning, possessing an unparalleled grasp of the Old Ones’ technology. However, Aloy is a quick learner and an exceptional hunter and warrior. While Sylens might hold more theoretical knowledge, Aloy’s practical skills and adaptability make her formidable.
6. Was Sylens the “bad guy” in Horizon Zero Dawn?
Sylens is not a traditional villain. He is a rational actor who prioritizes knowledge and power. While his actions often cause negative consequences, he does not seek destruction for its own sake. He’s best described as a chaotic neutral character.
7. Is Sylens good or bad?
The terms “good” and “bad” don’t fit Sylens well. He lacks a moral compass, but he doesn’t intentionally cause harm. His actions are primarily self-serving, making him a chaotic neutral character.
8. What is Sylens’ motivation with the blue wires?
The blue wires are not for any specific technological or practical reason. They are a Banuk shamanic custom, adopted by Sylens to appear legitimate within the tribe, and reflect the idea of containing inner power, though it is not a direct link to the old world tech.
9. What did Sylens do with HADES at the end of Horizon Zero Dawn?
Sylens established a connection with HADES and helped it understand the current world. In return, HADES gave him information on the old world. He also helped HADES reactivate the machines that were buried from the apocalypse, creating a plan to cultivate a human cult following for HADES.
10. Does Sylens have a genuine interest in Aloy?
Sylens’ interest in Aloy is largely driven by her connection to the Old Ones and her potential as a tool for his own goals. Initially, he is callous towards her, but he does eventually show respect and acknowledges her abilities. He is interested in anything that might pose a threat to HADES, which includes Aloy.
11. Was Sylens in the Frozen Wilds DLC?
Yes, while not always seen, Sylens’s past is central to the narrative in the Frozen Wilds DLC. His origins as a shaman who traveled to Ban-Ur are explored, and his influence can be felt within the story. The DLC provides valuable context for his character.
12. How was Aloy born?
Aloy is a unique individual, created using the genetic material of Dr. Elisabet Sobeck. This process was initiated by GAIA’s subordinate function, ELEUTHIA, in hopes of providing a solution to reboot GAIA after the AI destroyed itself in a bid to stop HADES.
13. Why is Aloy often angry with Sylens?
Aloy’s anger towards Sylens stems from his manipulative nature, his tendency to operate in secrecy, and his consistent exploitation of her and other humans for his goals. His constant use of spyware on her Focus also irritates her.
14. Does Sylens leave Earth?
At the end of Horizon Forbidden West, Sylens originally intends to leave earth, viewing the planet as a lost cause and ignoring the impending threats against them. Upon seeing Aloy’s team victorious against the Zenith’s he decides to stay for the coming storm. He never acts from good intentions.
15. Will we see Sylens in Horizon 3?
While no specific details are available, the end of Horizon Forbidden West indicates that Sylens will likely play a role in future games. His decision to stay on Earth, combined with his continued pursuit of knowledge, suggests he will remain a significant character in the Horizon universe. The ending also suggests there will be further threats for them to deal with which Sylens would want to be aware of.
In conclusion, Sylens’ Banuk origins are a fundamental part of his complex character, providing a backdrop against which his ambitions and choices are defined. While he may have started as a Banuk shaman, he became something far more enigmatic and morally ambiguous, a testament to the power of knowledge and the complex nature of the Horizon universe.