Should I play Horizon Zero Dawn before Forbidden West?

Should I Play Horizon Zero Dawn Before Forbidden West?

The Horizon series has taken the gaming world by storm with its unique blend of action-adventure and science fiction elements. The series follows the story of Aloy, a hunter living in a post-apocalyptic world filled with robotic creatures and mysterious ruins. As you embark on a thrilling adventure with Aloy in the first game, Horizon Zero Dawn, and the sequel, Forbidden West, you might be wondering if playing the original game is necessary before diving into the new one.

Direct Answer

To put it simply, yes, playing Horizon Zero Dawn before Forbidden West is recommended, but not required. While the games can be enjoyed separately, knowing the background story and world history will enhance your overall gaming experience.

Reasons to Play Horizon Zero Dawn First

1. Understanding the World: The story of Horizon Zero Dawn is critical to understanding the world of Horizon. The game takes you on a journey of self-discovery as you unravel the mysteries of your past and the origins of the robotic creatures that populate the world. This story serves as a foundation for the events of Forbidden West.
2. Character Development: Aloy, the protagonist, evolves significantly throughout the original game. Her experiences, decisions, and relationships all have a profound impact on who she becomes in Forbidden West. Without understanding her growth and motivations in Horizon Zero Dawn, you may not appreciate the depth of her character in the sequel.
3. Mechanical Complexity: The combat and gameplay mechanics in Forbidden West build upon the innovations introduced in Horizon Zero Dawn. If you haven’t experienced the first game, you might struggle to fully grasp the complex combat system, new mechanics, and puzzle-solving challenges in the sequel.
4. Connections Between Games: Forbidden West includes several connections to the original game, such as returning characters, locations, and plot threads. Ignoring the events of Horizon Zero Dawn will make it challenging to appreciate these connections and enjoy the full narrative impact.

Can I Play Horizon Forbidden West Without Playing Zero Dawn?

If you still want to jump straight into Forbidden West without playing Horizon Zero Dawn, here are some important points to consider:

• The game doesn’t require knowledge of Zero Dawn: The storyline is designed to be relatively standalone, so you won’t miss out on major plot points or character arcs. However, as mentioned earlier, you might miss subtle connections and references.
• Newcomer difficulty: If you start with Forbidden West and have no prior experience with the series, the combat and gameplay mechanics might take some time to adjust to.
• Spoiler Alert: Forbidden West includes several nods and references to Horizon Zero Dawn, so, be prepared for spoilers regarding the original game’s storyline and characters.

Ultimately

While Forbidden West can be enjoyed independently, playing Horizon Zero Dawn first provides a richer and more meaningful experience. The two games share a deep connection in terms of story, character development, and mechanics, making it worthwhile to complete the original game before jumping into the sequel. Even if you choose not to play Horizon Zero Dawn, understanding the core concept and world will allow you to appreciate the depth of the Forbidden West story and gameplay mechanics.