Why Can’t I Access Burning Shores DLC? Unraveling the Mystery
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.
So, you’re itching to dive into the lava-scorched landscapes of Los Angeles in Horizon Forbidden West: Burning Shores, but the game isn’t letting you in? Frustrating, I know! The most common reason players can’t access the Burning Shores DLC is that they haven’t completed the main story of Horizon Forbidden West, specifically the final main quest, “Singularity.” The game requires this completion to trigger the DLC’s starting point. However, several other potential roadblocks could be preventing you from experiencing this fiery expansion. Let’s diagnose the problem and get you soaring over those volcanic vistas.
Common Culprits Preventing Access
Before pulling your hair out, let’s go through a checklist of the most common issues preventing access to Burning Shores:
- Incomplete Main Story: As mentioned, this is the big one. Double-check your quest log and ensure “Singularity” is marked as complete. No exceptions!
- DLC Not Installed: Seems obvious, but easy to overlook. Confirm the Burning Shores DLC is downloaded and fully installed on your PS5. Go to the PlayStation Store, search for “Burning Shores,” and verify its status.
- Wrong Game Version: Burning Shores is exclusively for the PS5 version of Horizon Forbidden West. If you’re playing on a PS4, you’re out of luck, unfortunately. Guerrilla Games wanted to fully leverage the PS5’s capabilities for this expansion.
- Game Not Updated: Make sure your Horizon Forbidden West game is updated to the latest version. Patches often include necessary compatibility fixes for DLC.
- Save File Issues: Sometimes, save files can become corrupted. Try loading an earlier save file to see if that resolves the issue.
- Account Issues: Ensure you are logged into the PlayStation Network account that purchased the Burning Shores DLC. Sharing games with friends is great, but DLC access is often tied to the purchasing account.
- Game Sharing Complications: Are you game sharing? Sometimes, DLC access can be tricky on secondary consoles. Ensure the purchasing account is set as the primary account on your PS5, or play on the primary console.
- Glitches and Bugs: Although rare, sometimes glitches occur. Restart your PS5 console and reload the game.
Troubleshooting Steps
Okay, let’s get our hands dirty and start troubleshooting:
- Confirm Main Story Completion: This is crucial. Check your quest log. If “Singularity” isn’t completed, get it done!
- Verify DLC Installation: Head to your PS5’s home screen, highlight Horizon Forbidden West, press the Options button on your controller, and select “Manage Game Content.” See if Burning Shores is listed as installed.
- Check for Updates: Ensure both your PS5 system software and Horizon Forbidden West are updated to the latest versions.
- Restore Licenses: On your PS5, go to Settings > Users and Accounts > Other > Restore Licenses. This can often fix issues with accessing purchased content.
- Restart Your PS5: A simple restart can sometimes clear up minor software glitches.
- Reinstall the DLC: As a last resort, try uninstalling and reinstalling the Burning Shores DLC.
- Contact PlayStation Support: If all else fails, contact PlayStation Support. They can help diagnose account-specific issues or potential platform problems.
Understanding the PS5 Exclusivity
The decision to make Burning Shores a PS5 exclusive wasn’t taken lightly. Guerrilla Games cited the desire to push the graphical fidelity and gameplay mechanics to their limits, something that simply wasn’t possible on the older PS4 hardware. This meant utilizing the PS5’s faster storage, more powerful GPU, and advanced features to create a richer, more immersive experience.
The Games Learning Society could study the transition from one console generation to another, analyzing the development techniques to optimize the final user experience.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about accessing the Burning Shores DLC:
1. I’ve completed “Singularity,” but the DLC still isn’t triggering. What’s wrong?
Double-check that the DLC is actually installed. Also, ensure your game is fully updated to the latest version. Sometimes, a simple restart of your PS5 can do the trick. If none of that helps, try restoring your licenses through the PlayStation settings.
2. Can I play Burning Shores on a PS4?
Unfortunately, no. Burning Shores is exclusively available for the PS5 version of Horizon Forbidden West.
3. How do I know if the DLC is properly installed?
Go to your PS5’s home screen, highlight Horizon Forbidden West, press the Options button on your controller, and select “Manage Game Content.” You should see Burning Shores listed as installed.
4. Does Burning Shores work with New Game Plus?
Yes! You can access Burning Shores in New Game Plus, as long as you’ve completed the “Singularity” quest in your current playthrough. You do not need to complete Burning Shores to start a New Game Plus.
5. Is there a level requirement to start Burning Shores?
While there isn’t a specific level requirement, it’s recommended to be at least level 50 to handle the challenges in Burning Shores.
6. I’m game sharing. Why can’t I access the DLC?
Ensure the account that purchased the Burning Shores DLC is set as the primary account on your PS5 console. Alternatively, play the game on the primary console associated with the purchasing account.
7. What if my save file is corrupted?
Try loading an earlier save file. If that works, you might have lost some progress, but at least you can access the DLC. If all your saves are corrupted, you may unfortunately need to start a new game.
8. Do I need an internet connection to play Burning Shores after downloading it?
You only need an internet connection to download and install the DLC. Once installed, you can play it offline.
9. Where does the Burning Shores storyline fit within the main Horizon Forbidden West narrative?
Burning Shores is an epilogue to the main story of Horizon Forbidden West. It takes place after the events of “Singularity” and sets the stage for future installments.
10. How long does it take to complete Burning Shores?
The main storyline of Burning Shores takes around 7-10 hours to complete. Completionists can expect to spend around 15-20 hours exploring everything the DLC has to offer.
11. Is there a physical version of Burning Shores?
No. Burning Shores is a digital-only DLC and is only available for purchase and download through the PlayStation Store.
12. What’s the best way to prepare for Burning Shores in terms of gear and skills?
Focus on upgrading your gear to the highest possible level. Experiment with different weapon and armor combinations to find what works best for your play style. Maximize your skills in areas like combat, stealth, and resource gathering.
13. I accidentally purchased the DLC on the wrong account. Can I get a refund?
PlayStation’s refund policy generally allows refunds within 14 days of purchase, provided you haven’t started downloading or streaming the content. Contact PlayStation Support as soon as possible to request a refund.
14. Is Burning Shores region-locked?
No, the Burning Shores DLC is not region-locked. As long as you purchase it from the PlayStation Store in your region, it should work with your game.
15. Does Burning Shores add new trophies to Horizon Forbidden West?
Yes! Burning Shores includes a new set of trophies to unlock, including a platinum trophy for completing all tasks within the expansion.
Accessing the Burning Shores DLC can sometimes be a frustrating experience if you hit a snag. However, by methodically going through these troubleshooting steps, you should be able to identify the problem and get back to exploring Aloy’s adventures. And remember, if all else fails, PlayStation Support is there to help!