What is the Coolest Armor in Horizon Zero Dawn?
The coolest armor in Horizon Zero Dawn is undoubtedly the Shield-Weaver outfit. While other armors offer various benefits like increased stealth or elemental resistance, the Shield-Weaver provides something unique: a regenerating energy shield. This armor isn’t just visually striking; it drastically alters gameplay by allowing Aloy to withstand significant damage before needing to recharge. Its combination of powerful protection and its status as a coveted end-game reward makes it the coolest and most sought-after armor in the game. Getting the Shield-Weaver requires dedication, as it’s locked behind a challenging side quest that involves finding all the power cells and solving ancient puzzles. This journey makes obtaining it a satisfying experience for any player.
The Allure of the Shield-Weaver Armor
The Shield-Weaver armor isn’t just about raw stats; it represents a significant shift in how Aloy approaches combat. Unlike traditional armor that provides set damage reduction, the Shield-Weaver generates a force field that completely negates incoming damage. This shield acts as a buffer, allowing Aloy to engage enemies more aggressively, knowing she has a temporary shield of protection. While the shield does have a limit and needs to recharge once depleted, its quick recharge rate makes it a formidable defense mechanism. This unique mechanic changes gameplay by allowing more freedom, as it can often help new and experienced players take bigger risks. Its futuristic and sleek design further adds to its desirability, making it a visual standout compared to other outfits. The process of obtaining the Shield-Weaver, as it involves exploration and puzzle-solving, also makes it a reward that feels truly earned.
How to Obtain the Shield-Weaver Armor
The path to acquiring the Shield-Weaver armor is a significant undertaking. It is not something that can be done at the start of the game. This process is part of the side quest called “Ancient Armory.” The first step involves collecting five Power Cells. These aren’t located in one place; rather, they’re scattered throughout the map in various locations. Once a single Power Cell is obtained, the location of the bunker where the Shield-Weaver is hidden will be marked on your map. After acquiring all five Power Cells, the player must venture inside the bunker. Inside the bunker, there will be two puzzles to solve to unlock the armor. These puzzles require the placement of the Power Cells in a specific way. Once both puzzles are solved, the Shield-Weaver armor is yours. While the armor is a later-game reward, the challenge of obtaining it is worthwhile for the distinct gameplay benefits it provides.
Other Notable Armor Sets
While the Shield-Weaver armor is considered the coolest, other armor sets provide their own unique advantages and therefore cater to different playstyles.
Nora Thunder Warrior
The Nora Thunder Warrior armor is another extremely powerful option, particularly for those who enjoy engaging in combat head-on. This armor is acquired through the Arena for 54 medals. The arena is a place where players can engage in more difficult battles for rewards. This set is known for its high overall stats and its resilience against various damage types, making it an ideal choice for players who prefer a more aggressive style. Its availability through the Arena system also makes it a notable late-game reward.
Nora Silent Hunter
For players who prefer a stealthy approach, the Nora Silent Hunter Heavy armor is invaluable. Its primary strength lies in its high stealth stat, which significantly reduces the likelihood of detection by enemies. This armor is available at various merchants throughout the game and is an exceptional early-game and late-game option. This set is ideal for players who prefer to pick off machines from the shadows or to avoid unnecessary battles.
Oseram Arrowbreaker Heavy
For pure projectile defense, the Oseram Arrowbreaker Heavy armor is an excellent choice. It grants a substantial bonus to projectile resistance, making Aloy more durable against ranged attacks. This armor is perfect for players who often find themselves battling against enemies that rely on arrows or other ranged weaponry. Its higher projectile resistance makes some fights a lot easier.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Where can I find the first Power Cell?
The first Power Cell can be found in the ruins of the All-Mother facility, accessed during the story mission “The Womb of the Mountain.” It is located inside a room, and to get inside, you’ll have to climb some ledges to find an access point.
2. How many Power Cells are required to get the Shield-Weaver armor?
You need to find five Power Cells to unlock the Shield-Weaver armor.
3. Can you buy the Shield-Weaver armor?
No, the Shield-Weaver armor cannot be purchased. It is only obtainable as a reward for completing the “Ancient Armory” side quest.
4. Is the Shield-Weaver armor worth the effort?
Absolutely. The Shield-Weaver’s unique force field makes it extremely valuable, especially in later stages of the game and on higher difficulty levels.
5. What are the Shield-Weaver armor’s weaknesses?
The Shield-Weaver’s shield needs time to recharge once depleted, leaving Aloy temporarily vulnerable. The amount it blocks depends on the game difficulty.
6. Where is the bunker for the Shield-Weaver located?
The bunker’s location will be marked on your map after you obtain the first Power Cell. It is located north-west of the Nora Hunting Grounds near a collapsed radio tower.
7. What is the best armor for a stealth playstyle?
The Nora Silent Hunter Heavy armor is ideal for stealth, as it significantly increases Aloy’s stealth rating.
8. How do I get the Nora Thunder Warrior armor?
You can acquire the Nora Thunder Warrior armor by purchasing it from Dukkah in the Arena for 54 medals.
9. What is the best projectile defense armor?
The Oseram Arrowbreaker Heavy armor provides the best projectile defense.
10. Does the Shield-Weaver armor block all damage?
Yes, the Shield-Weaver blocks 100% of incoming damage until the shield collapses.
11. Is there any secret weapon that can’t be purchased from merchants?
Yes, the Tearblaster is a unique weapon obtainable only as a reward from the side quest “Hunter’s Blind“.
12. What is the best bow in Horizon Zero Dawn?
The Banuk Powershot Bow is considered one of the best bows, especially after the introduction of “The Frozen Wilds” expansion.
13. What is the highest level a player can achieve in Horizon Zero Dawn?
The level cap is 60, with something referred to as a “ghost level” higher than that after the release of “The Frozen Wilds.”
14. Where can I find the Nora Sentinel armor?
The Nora Sentinel armor can be purchased from the Barren Light Stitcher merchant and the hunter in No Man’s Land.
15. What is the most dangerous machine in Horizon Zero Dawn?
The Thunderjaw is widely considered the most dangerous machine due to its massive size, firepower, and aggressive behavior.