Charger vs. Bristleback: Which Mount Reigns Supreme in Speed?
The question of which machine is faster, the Charger or the Bristleback, is a common one among players of the Horizon series. While both are capable of being overridden and used as mounts, their speed and maneuverability differ significantly. The short answer is: Chargers are notably faster than Bristlebacks. This speed difference is palpable when traversing the vast landscapes of the game, making the Charger the preferable option for quick travel. Let’s delve deeper into why this is the case and explore other aspects of these two impressive machines.
Charger: Speed and Agility
Swift and Streamlined
Chargers, often likened to robotic rams, are designed for speed and maneuverability. Their lithe frames and powerful legs allow them to accelerate quickly and maintain a high velocity. This makes them excellent for covering long distances in a short amount of time. Chargers are particularly useful in open areas where their speed can be fully utilized. While they may not possess the brute strength of a Bristleback, their agility and quickness make them ideal for rapid transit.
Limitations
However, Chargers aren’t without their limitations. Their lightweight build and focus on speed make them less stable in rough terrain, and their lower health pool means they can’t withstand the same amount of damage as more heavily armored machines. Additionally, their combat capabilities are more limited compared to the devastating melee attacks of the Bristleback.
Bristleback: Power and Bulk
Tank-Like Mobility
Bristlebacks, on the other hand, are more akin to robotic boars. They are built for power and resilience, sporting a stocky build and formidable tusks. While capable of moving quickly, their bulky frame and heavier armor make them slower than Chargers. This means that the Bristleback is less suited for high-speed chases or long-distance travel.
Combat Superiority
The Bristleback’s strength lies in its melee attacks and elemental capabilities. They are designed to be formidable combat partners, able to deliver devastating blows and use fire or acid attacks. They can withstand a significant amount of punishment, making them useful when facing multiple enemies or challenging encounters. However, their large size makes it difficult for them to navigate narrow paths or avoid obstacles.
Speed Comparison: Charger Wins
In a straight speed test, the Charger consistently outpaces the Bristleback. This difference in speed is noticeable in both short sprints and longer runs. While both machines are useful in different contexts, the Charger’s speed makes it the go-to mount for players looking to cover distance quickly.
Why the Difference?
The reason for this speed difference lies in the design and intended purpose of each machine. The Charger is designed to be a fast and nimble scout, while the Bristleback is intended to be a strong and durable combat unit. Their physical attributes reflect these roles, with the Charger’s lighter build and longer legs geared for speed, and the Bristleback’s bulky form and powerful limbs meant for combat.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are 15 frequently asked questions that will give you a broader understanding about the machines and mounts in the Horizon universe:
1. What is the fastest mount in Horizon Forbidden West?
The Sunwing is the fastest mount in Horizon Forbidden West, allowing players to fly across the map at great speed. It is significantly faster than any ground mount.
2. Are mounts faster than the broom in Horizon Forbidden West?
Yes, mounts are generally faster than the broom in Horizon Forbidden West. While the broom can reach high altitudes, mounts are quicker over the same distance, especially at lower altitudes.
3. Can you ride a Thunderjaw in any Horizon game?
No, you cannot ride a Thunderjaw in any Horizon game. Though impressive, Thunderjaws are too large and powerful to be used as mounts.
4. What are the three rideable machines in Horizon Zero Dawn?
The three rideable machines in Horizon Zero Dawn are Striders, Broadheads, and Chargers. These machines can be overridden and used for transport.
5. Are Broadheads faster than Striders?
No, Broadheads and Striders travel at the same speed. They are not faster or slower than each other, with both being useful as mounts.
6. Can you mount a Stormbird in Horizon Zero Dawn?
No, you cannot mount a Stormbird in Horizon Zero Dawn. Despite its size and majestic appearance, Stormbirds are not designed to be ridden by Aloy.
7. What is the strongest machine in Horizon Forbidden West?
There are several strong machines, but the Slaughterspine is often considered one of the toughest to beat, alongside other formidable foes like the Thunderjaw and the Specter.
8. What is the hardest boss in Horizon Forbidden West?
Regalla, the main antagonist of the game, is considered the hardest boss to beat due to her relentless and skilled fighting style.
9. What is the hardest enemy in Horizon Zero Dawn?
The Deathbringer is one of the hardest enemies in Horizon Zero Dawn. These machines are powerful and require specific strategies to defeat.
10. What is the rarest machine in Horizon Forbidden West?
The Dreadwing is considered the rarest and most challenging aerial machine in Horizon Forbidden West.
11. What is the secret weapon in Horizon Zero Dawn?
The Tearblaster is a somewhat hidden weapon, obtained as a reward for the side quest “Hunter’s Blind”.
12. What is Aloy’s strongest armor in Horizon Forbidden West?
The Oseram Artificer is the strongest armor for melee combat in Horizon Forbidden West*, boosting damage and resonator buildup.
13. Can you override a Sawtooth in Horizon Zero Dawn?
Yes, you can override a Sawtooth once you complete Cauldron SIGMA. This allows Aloy to control this machine and use it in combat.
14. What animal is the Thunderjaw based on?
The Thunderjaw is based on theropod dinosaurs like the T-Rex or Carnotaurus, known for their bipedal stance and small forelimbs.
15. What are Bristlebacks supposed to be?
Bristlebacks are warthog-esque acquisition machines designed for combat and elemental attacks. They are formidable adversaries, able to deliver powerful melee hits and elemental damage.
Conclusion
While both the Charger and the Bristleback have their own unique advantages, the Charger is definitively the faster of the two. If your main priority is quickly covering distances in the Horizon games, the Charger is your optimal choice. However, players should choose their mount based on the specific challenges they face. The Bristleback’s strength and elemental attacks make it ideal for tough combat, even if its speed is more limited. By understanding the strengths and weaknesses of each machine, you can make the most of your experience in the vast and captivating world of Horizon.