Should I start with Zero Dawn or Forbidden West?

Should I Start with Zero Dawn or Forbidden West?

Horizon Zero Dawn and Horizon Forbidden West are two highly acclaimed games that have garnered widespread critical acclaim for their engaging storytelling, impressive graphics, and immersive gameplay. If you’re new to the Horizon series or considering playing either game, you might be wondering which one to start with. In this article, we’ll help you make an informed decision by comparing the two games and highlighting their key differences.

Narrative Foundation

One of the most significant factors to consider when deciding which game to start with is the narrative foundation. Horizon Zero Dawn sets the stage for the entire franchise, introducing players to Aloy, a strong and determined protagonist, and her quest to uncover the truth about her past and the world around her. Starting with Zero Dawn allows you to experience the story from the beginning, setting the stage for the events that unfold in Forbidden West. On the other hand, Forbidden West is a direct sequel to Zero Dawn, building upon the events and characters introduced in the first game. While it’s possible to start with Forbidden West, playing Zero Dawn first will provide a deeper understanding of the world, characters, and plot.

Gameplay and Mechanics

Horizon Zero Dawn and Horizon Forbidden West share many similarities in terms of gameplay mechanics, but there are some key differences. Zero Dawn introduces players to Aloy’s abilities, including her hunting skills, melee combat, and stealth tactics. The game also features a variety of machine types, each with its unique weaknesses and strengths. Forbidden West builds upon these mechanics, adding new machine types, abilities, and upgrades. Forbidden West also features improved graphics, animations, and a more expansive open world.

Comparing the Games

Here’s a brief comparison of the two games:

Conclusion

In conclusion, while both games are excellent choices, we recommend starting with Horizon Zero Dawn to experience the narrative foundation of the franchise. Starting with Zero Dawn will provide a deeper understanding of the world, characters, and plot, setting the stage for the events that unfold in Forbidden West. That being said, if you’re short on time or prefer to dive into the action without investing in the backstory, Forbidden West is still a great choice, offering an engaging storyline and improved gameplay mechanics.

Key Takeaways

• Starting with Horizon Zero Dawn will provide a deeper understanding of the world, characters, and plot.
• Horizon Forbidden West builds upon the events and characters introduced in Zero Dawn.
• Both games feature improved graphics, animations, and engaging gameplay mechanics.
• Starting with Zero Dawn will allow you to experience the story from the beginning, setting the stage for the events that unfold in Forbidden West.
• Forbidden West is still a great choice if you’re short on time or prefer to dive into the action without investing in the backstory.

Final Thoughts

The Horizon series is a must-play for any gamer, and both Zero Dawn and Forbidden West are excellent choices. By understanding the narrative foundation of the franchise, you’ll be able to appreciate the story and characters even more. Whichever game you choose, be prepared for an immersive gaming experience that will keep you hooked from start to finish.