Which Horizon should I play?

by
Quick answer
This page answers Which Horizon should I play? quickly.

Fast answer first. Then use the tabs or video for more detail.

  • Watch the video explanation below for a faster overview.
  • Game mechanics may change with updates or patches.
  • Use this block to get the short answer without scrolling the whole page.
  • Read the FAQ section if the article has one.
  • Use the table of contents to jump straight to the detailed section you need.
  • Watch the video first, then skim the article for specifics.

▶
<!DOCTYPE html>
<html lang="en">
<head>
    <meta charset="UTF-8">
    <meta name="viewport" content="width=device-width, initial-scale=1.0">
    <title>Which Horizon Game Should You Play? A Comprehensive Guide</title>
    <style>
        body {
            font-family: Arial, sans-serif;
            line-height: 1.6;
            margin: 20px;
        }
        h1, h2, h3 {
            color: #333;
        }
        a {
            color: #007bff;
            text-decoration: none;
        }
        a:hover {
            text-decoration: underline;
        }
        strong {
            font-weight: bold;
        }
    </style>
</head>
<body>

<h1>Which Horizon Game Should You Play? A Comprehensive Guide</h1>

<p>The answer, without hesitation, is to start with **Horizon Zero Dawn**. While **Horizon Forbidden West** offers improved gameplay mechanics and stunning visuals, experiencing the narrative and world-building in the intended order is crucial for maximum enjoyment. Jumping straight into the sequel will leave you with a significant gap in understanding the rich lore and character development that makes the Horizon series so captivating.</p>

<h2>The Case for Starting with Horizon Zero Dawn</h2>

<p>Think of the Horizon games like chapters in a book. You wouldn't skip the first few chapters and expect to fully grasp the intricacies of the plot and the emotional arcs of the characters, would you? **Horizon Zero Dawn** meticulously sets the stage, revealing the secrets of the Old Ones, the origins of the machines, and the significance of Aloy's unique destiny. It's a journey of discovery that's best experienced firsthand.</p>

<p>Moreover, **Horizon Zero Dawn** remains a fantastic game in its own right. While its mechanics might feel slightly less polished compared to **Forbidden West**, the core gameplay loop of hunting machines, crafting upgrades, and uncovering mysteries is still incredibly engaging. The story is arguably more compelling, with a mystery that unfolds at a perfect pace, constantly surprising and captivating the player.</p>

<h2>What You'll Miss by Skipping Zero Dawn</h2>

<p>Here's a taste of what you'll be missing if you decide to skip **Horizon Zero Dawn**:</p>

*   **The Origins of Aloy:** Understanding Aloy's birth and her unique connection to the world is fundamental to appreciating her motivations and actions in **Forbidden West**.

*   **The Fall of the Old Ones:** The backstory of the Faro Plague and the extinction of humanity is essential for understanding the stakes and the challenges Aloy faces.

*   **The Creation of GAIA:** Knowing the purpose and function of GAIA, the terraforming system, provides context for the various AI subsystems Aloy encounters.

*   **Key Character Introductions:** Meeting and forming relationships with characters like Rost, Sylens, and Erend is crucial for emotional investment in the narrative.

<h2>Horizon Forbidden West: A Worthy Sequel</h2>

<p>Once you've completed **Horizon Zero Dawn**, including the excellent **Frozen Wilds** DLC, you'll be perfectly positioned to dive into **Horizon Forbidden West**. The sequel builds upon the foundation laid by its predecessor, expanding the world, introducing new machines, and deepening the combat mechanics.</p>

<p>**Forbidden West** also offers significant graphical improvements, with stunning environments and incredibly detailed character models. However, these visual enhancements are best appreciated after experiencing the world and characters in their original form.</p>

<p>Ultimately, playing **Horizon Zero Dawn** first enhances the experience of **Horizon Forbidden West** by providing a deeper understanding of the world, characters, and stakes involved. You'll appreciate the nuances of the story, the evolution of the gameplay, and the overall narrative arc of Aloy's journey. By playing the first game first, you will have a much better time in understanding the story, motivations, and character relationships.</p>

<h2>Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)</h2>

<h3>1. Is it okay to play Horizon Forbidden West first?</h3>

<p>While technically possible, it's **not recommended**. You'll miss crucial story context, character introductions, and the emotional impact of Aloy's journey. Start with **Horizon Zero Dawn** for the best experience.</p>

<h3>2. Which Horizon game should I get first?</h3>

<p>Definitely **Horizon Zero Dawn**. It's the first game in the series and provides the necessary foundation for understanding the world and story.</p>

<h3>3. Should I play Zero Dawn or Forbidden West first based on gameplay alone?</h3>

<p>Even from a gameplay perspective, it's better to start with **Zero Dawn**. The mechanics are simpler, allowing you to ease into the game's systems before facing the more complex challenges of **Forbidden West**.</p>

<h3>4. Which is better: Horizon Forbidden West or Horizon Zero Dawn?</h3>

<p>It depends on what you prioritize. **Forbidden West** has superior graphics and gameplay mechanics, while **Zero Dawn** has a tighter, more compelling story. However, playing **Zero Dawn** first enhances the experience of **Forbidden West**.</p>

<h3>5. Do I need to play the first Horizon before Forbidden West to understand the story?</h3>

<p>Yes, absolutely. You'll be lost on the lore and character relationships if you skip **Zero Dawn**. The story of **Forbidden West** is a direct continuation of the first game.</p>

<h3>6. Should I play Horizon in order?</h3>

<p>Absolutely 100% yes! The story unfolds sequentially, and plot reveals are best experienced in chronological order.</p>

<h3>7. Can I skip Zero Dawn and play Forbidden West?</h3>

<p>You *can*, but you'll miss a significant amount of information, especially regarding the Old Ones and Aloy's origins. It's highly discouraged.</p>

<h3>8. Is Horizon Forbidden West as good as Zero Dawn?</h3>

<p>Both games are excellent, but they have different strengths. **Forbidden West** is visually stunning and has improved gameplay, while **Zero Dawn** boasts a more focused and compelling narrative.</p>

<h3>9. Is Forbidden West bigger than Zero Dawn?</h3>

<p>Yes, **Forbidden West** has a larger map and more content than **Zero Dawn**. However, some argue that this bigness comes at the cost of focus.</p>

<h3>10. Why is Forbidden West better than Zero Dawn?</h3>

<p>**Forbidden West** introduces new features like the ability to change the time of day and improved traversal options. The graphics are also significantly better. However, whether these improvements outweigh the stronger story of **Zero Dawn** is a matter of personal preference.</p>

<h3>11. Can I skip Horizon Zero Dawn before Forbidden West and still enjoy the sequel?</h3>

<p>While you *might* still enjoy the gameplay of **Forbidden West**, you'll be missing a critical understanding of the story and characters. It's highly recommended to play **Zero Dawn** first.</p>

<h3>12. Do I need to play Horizon Zero Dawn before Forbidden West according to Reddit?</h3>

<p>The general consensus on Reddit is a resounding "yes." Players emphasize the importance of understanding the story and character relationships established in **Zero Dawn**.</p>

<h3>13. Which Horizon game has the best gameplay?</h3>

<p>**Horizon Forbidden West** generally considered to have the superior gameplay. It benefits from refined mechanics, improved traversal options, and more diverse machine encounters.</p>

<h3>14. What is the difference between Zero Dawn and Forbidden West in terms of accessibility?</h3>

<p>**Horizon Forbidden West** includes more robust accessibility options than **Zero Dawn**, catering to a wider range of players with different needs and preferences. The Games Learning Society and other similar organizations are exploring how these mechanics can be used to benefit other games. Learn more at <a href="https://www.gameslearningsociety.org/">GamesLearningSociety.org</a>.</p>

<h3>15. How long does Forbidden West take place after Zero Dawn?</h3>

<p>**Horizon Forbidden West** begins approximately six months after the events of **Zero Dawn**. This timeline is important for understanding Aloy's state of mind and the urgency of her mission.</p>

<p>In the end, by playing **Horizon Zero Dawn** before diving into **Horizon Forbidden West**, you'll be equipped to fully appreciate all the narrative richness and breathtaking gameplay that both adventures have to offer.</p>

</body>
</html>

Leave a Comment