Frequently Asked Questions
The most-asked questions about Horizon Zero Dawn.
What is Horizon Zero Dawn?
Horizon Zero Dawn is an action role-playing game set in a post-apocalyptic future where nature has reclaimed civilization and humanity lives as tribal societies. Players control Aloy, a hunter who discovers the truth behind her world's collapse while battling robotic creatures known as Machines.
Who is the main character?
The protagonist is Aloy, an outcast from the Nora tribe who possesses exceptional hunting skills and a mysterious genetic connection to the past. Her journey drives the narrative as she seeks her identity and fights against the forces threatening her world.
Where should new players start?
Beginners should start with the base game on PC or PlayStation, which introduces the core story, mechanics, and world-building essential for understanding the sequel. Playing through the main campaign first is recommended before exploring side quests or downloadable content like The Frozen Wilds.
What are Machines in this universe?
Machines are advanced robotic fauna that roam the wilderness, ranging from small insect-like scouts to massive, tank-sized behemoths. They were originally created by a pre-collapse civilization called the Faro Plague but have since evolved into diverse species with unique behaviors and weaknesses.
Who is Sylens?
Sylens serves as an enigmatic mentor figure who guides Aloy while harboring his own complex motives regarding the ancient world's technology. He acts as both a crucial ally and a moral gray character throughout the story, often challenging the player's perspective on right and wrong.
What is the Faraday Plague?
The Faro Plague refers to the self-replicating nanite swarm that was programmed to eliminate all life on Earth but instead mutated into the Machines. This catastrophic event wiped out modern civilization centuries before the game begins, leaving only scattered ruins behind.
What are the key tribes in the game?
Several distinct tribal societies exist, including the Nora, Carja, and Banuk, each with unique cultures, beliefs, and relationships with the Machines. These groups often clash over resources or ideology while struggling to survive in a hostile environment dominated by robotic threats.
What is a notable moment in the story?
A pivotal scene occurs when Aloy finally accesses the ancient facility known as the Mother, revealing her own origin as a clone of the scientist Elisabet Sobeck. This discovery fundamentally shifts her understanding of herself and the true cause of the apocalypse.
Is there a sequel to this game?
Yes, Horizon Forbidden West continues Aloy's adventure across a new region filled with diverse biomes and more dangerous Machines. It expands on the lore established in the first game while introducing new characters and deeper mysteries about the world's future.
How does combat work in the game?
Combat relies on a mix of stealth, ranged attacks using bows and traps, and close-quarters melee strikes against specific weak points on Machines. Players must analyze enemy behaviors and adapt their strategies to exploit vulnerabilities like overheating cores or exposed joints.