Aloy’s Ride: A Comprehensive Guide to Mountable Machines in Horizon

Aloy, the fierce and resourceful protagonist of the Horizon series, isn’t just a skilled hunter and warrior; she’s also adept at taming the mechanical beasts that roam the post-apocalyptic world. In both Horizon Zero Dawn and Horizon Forbidden West, Aloy can override certain machines, bending them to her will and, most importantly, using them as mounts to traverse the vast landscapes.

Specifically, Aloy can ride the following machines:

• Charger: The first mount Aloy can acquire, providing a good balance of speed and agility in Horizon Zero Dawn.
• Strider: Another mountable machine from Horizon Zero Dawn, similar to the Charger in capabilities.
• Broadhead: This machine, also from Horizon Zero Dawn, is a larger, more robust mount suitable for rough terrain.
• Bristleback: Introduced in Horizon Forbidden West, the Bristleback is a sturdy, boar-like machine perfect for combat and carrying heavy loads.
• Clawstrider: A raptor-like machine that provides speed and agility for navigating treacherous landscapes, available in Horizon Forbidden West.
• Sunwing: Arguably the most coveted mount, the Sunwing allows Aloy to take to the skies in Horizon Forbidden West, offering unparalleled exploration possibilities.
• Waterwing: Exclusive to the Burning Shores DLC for Horizon Forbidden West, the Waterwing allows Aloy to fly and dive underwater.

These mounts not only offer a significant advantage in traversing the game world but also add a unique layer of gameplay, allowing players to experience the environment from different perspectives and engage in combat in new and exciting ways.

Understanding Machine Overrides

Cauldrons and the Override Mechanic

The ability to override machines is central to Aloy’s ability to ride them. This skill isn’t innate; it’s acquired through exploring ancient facilities known as Cauldrons. Each Cauldron contains the knowledge and technology necessary to reprogram specific types of machines. Completing a Cauldron unlocks the ability to override the machines it houses. In Horizon Forbidden West, there is also the added requirement of unlocking them via your base.

Skill Tree Investments

Overriding isn’t just about completing Cauldrons. Aloy’s skill tree offers various upgrades that enhance her overriding abilities. These skills can reduce the time it takes to override a machine, increase the duration of the override, and even unlock new combat maneuvers while mounted. Investing in these skills is crucial for maximizing the effectiveness of mountable machines.

Beyond Mounts: Strategic Overrides

While the focus here is on rideable machines, it’s important to remember that overriding extends to many other types of machines. Overriding a powerful machine like a Thunderjaw can turn the tide of a battle, providing Aloy with a formidable ally. The strategic use of overrides is a key element of Horizon’s gameplay.

Mountable Machines in Detail

Charger, Strider, and Broadhead (Horizon Zero Dawn)

These three machines are the foundation of Aloy’s mount options in Horizon Zero Dawn. They are all relatively easy to override and provide a significant improvement in speed and mobility compared to traveling on foot. The Charger and Strider are similar in capabilities, offering good speed and agility, while the Broadhead is a sturdier option, better suited for navigating rough terrain.

Bristleback (Horizon Forbidden West)

The Bristleback is a significant upgrade from the early mounts in Horizon Zero Dawn. This boar-like machine is not only faster but also more resilient, capable of withstanding more damage. Its robust build makes it ideal for traversing hazardous environments and engaging in combat.

Clawstrider (Horizon Forbidden West)

The Clawstrider is a fast, agile, and deadly mount. Resembling a velociraptor, it offers exceptional speed and maneuverability, allowing Aloy to quickly navigate complex terrains and outmaneuver enemies. The Clawstrider’s offensive capabilities make it a formidable combat mount.

Sunwing (Horizon Forbidden West)

The Sunwing is a game-changer. Unlocking the ability to fly is one of the most rewarding experiences in Horizon Forbidden West. The Sunwing allows Aloy to soar above the landscape, discovering hidden locations and bypassing treacherous terrain. Flight also opens up new combat possibilities, allowing Aloy to attack enemies from above. To obtain the Sunwing override, you’ll need to complete the Gemini main story mission and initiate the Wings of the Ten quest.

Waterwing (Horizon Forbidden West: Burning Shores DLC)

Exclusive to the Burning Shores DLC, the Waterwing is a unique flying machine that can also dive underwater. This provides Aloy with unparalleled exploration capabilities, allowing her to seamlessly transition between aerial and aquatic environments. The Waterwing is essential for uncovering the secrets of the Burning Shores and completing its challenges.

Mastering Mounted Combat

Riding machines isn’t just about getting from point A to point B; it’s also about combat. Aloy can use her bow and other weapons while mounted, turning her ride into a mobile weapons platform. Mastering mounted combat requires practice and skill, but the rewards are significant. A well-timed shot from atop a speeding Clawstrider can cripple an enemy machine and turn the tide of battle.

The Allure of Non-Mountable Machines

While riding machines is a core mechanic, it’s important to acknowledge the appeal of overriding machines that can’t be ridden. Imagine having a Thunderjaw or Tremortusk fighting alongside you. While these machines can’t be mounted, their raw power and destructive capabilities make them invaluable allies.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can you ride every machine in Horizon Forbidden West?

No, Aloy can only ride specific machines that are designed as mounts. These include the Bristleback, Clawstrider, Sunwing, and Waterwing, alongside the Charger, Strider, and Broadhead from the previous game. You need to override them first, which requires completing specific Cauldrons and unlocking the override at your base in Horizon Forbidden West.

2. How do you unlock the ability to override machines?

You unlock the ability to override machines by exploring and completing Cauldrons. Each Cauldron contains the override codes for specific types of machines. Once you complete a Cauldron, you can override the machines it controls. You’ll also need to unlock the override at your base in Horizon Forbidden West.

3. Can Aloy ride flying machines?

Yes, in Horizon Forbidden West, Aloy can ride the Sunwing and the Waterwing. The Sunwing allows her to fly across the map, while the Waterwing (from the Burning Shores DLC) can both fly and dive underwater.

4. How do you get the Sunwing?

To get the Sunwing, you must complete the Gemini main story mission in Horizon Forbidden West. This mission unlocks the Sunwing override key. After that, you need to initiate the Wings of the Ten mission, which will lead you to a Sunwing that you can override.

5. Can you ride a Thunderjaw?

No, you cannot ride a Thunderjaw. While you can override it to fight alongside you, it’s too large and unwieldy to be used as a mount.

6. Can you mount a Stormbird?

While you can override a Stormbird, you cannot mount it in either Horizon Zero Dawn or Horizon Forbidden West. The Sunwing serves as the primary flying mount in Forbidden West.

7. Can you override a Sawtooth?

Yes, you can override a Sawtooth in Horizon Zero Dawn after completing Cauldron SIGMA. However, you cannot ride it.

8. What is the toughest machine in Horizon Zero Dawn?

Many players consider the Rockbreaker and the Fireclaw to be among the toughest machines in Horizon Zero Dawn. Their powerful attacks and unique abilities make them challenging to defeat.

9. What is the hardest machine in Horizon Forbidden West?

The Shellsnapper, Thunderjaw, and Tremortusk are widely considered some of the most difficult machines to beat in Horizon Forbidden West, requiring strategic planning and skillful execution.

10. Can you mount Glinthawks?

Unfortunately, no, you cannot mount Glinthawks in either Horizon Zero Dawn or Horizon Forbidden West.

11. How many machines can Aloy ride in total across both games?

Across both games, Aloy can ride a total of seven different machines: Charger, Strider, Broadhead, Bristleback, Clawstrider, Sunwing, and Waterwing.

12. How does Aloy override machines initially?

Initially, Aloy gains the ability to override machines after defeating a “Demon” and acquiring a piece of it to attach to her spear. This allows her to begin overriding machines early in the first game and then expanding on the skill as the series progresses.

13. Are there any benefits to letting Regalla live in Forbidden West?

If you choose to let Regalla live in Horizon Forbidden West, she will assist you in the final battle against the Zeniths. However, killing her rewards you with a powerful weapon. The choice depends on your preferred gameplay style and moral alignment.

14. What animals can you ride in Horizon?

While the machines resemble animals, they are not technically animals. You can ride machines that resemble horses (Charger, Strider), a boar (Bristleback), and raptors (Clawstrider). The Sunwing also resembles a pterodactyl.

15. What is the rarest machine in Horizon Forbidden West?

The Dreadwing is considered one of the rarest machines in Horizon Forbidden West, often appearing in specific locations and presenting a significant challenge to defeat.

The Horizon franchise provides players with an immersive experience that goes beyond just action and adventure. The game incorporates elements of strategy, problem-solving, and resource management, which can be valuable learning tools. Resources like the Games Learning Society (https://www.gameslearningsociety.org/) explore the educational potential of video games and how they can be used to foster critical thinking and creativity. GamesLearningSociety.org offers invaluable insights into how games can positively impact learning and development.