Horizon Zero Dawn Remastered Review

Developers: Guerrilla Games, Nixxes Software

Initial release date: October 31, 2024

Genres: Role-playing video game, Adventure game, Shooter game, Adventure

Platforms: PlayStation 5, Microsoft Windows

Publishers: PlayStation Studios, Sony Interactive Entertainment, PlayStation Publishing LLC

Series: Horizon

Many people believe that Horizon Zero Dawn Remastered is unnecessary, given how good the original looked at the time. However, from the minute you start your trip as Aloy, it’s evident how much effort Nixxes has put into making it look as nice as it possibly can, and after being a skeptical curmudgeon about the concept of a remaster, I have to say it was a lot of fun to return to this world. Guerrilla developed something exceptional at the time, and I will take any opportunity to revisit its epic trip.

I’m still not persuaded people need this version in their lives, especially because the original entry still looks fantastic, but there are some noticeable upgrades that set it apart from other major PlayStation titles published in recent years. The world feels much more alive, whether in the way natural environments breathe or NPCs move in larger towns. The way plant life reacts to shifting weather systems, whether it’s the wind blowing through the grass or the rain on the ground, is breathtaking.

The graphics have been redone to look at least as well as they did in Forbidden West. The weather patterns and how the sun interacts with the landscapes never cease to amaze me. Most post-apocalyptic environments feature crumbling structures and ruin, but Horizon was always about nature regaining the man-made world. With Horizon Zero Dawn Remastered, Nixxes has used the PlayStation 5’s technologies to enhance an already stunning game. greater greenery means greater detail. More of everything, and it’s all for the better.

NPCs appear more realistic. They go about their daily lives, paying closer attention to their surroundings. You feel like you’re in a living, breathing universe, which the original didn’t fully capture. Animations have been improved and expanded, with more motion capture footage shot to provide an even more lifelike appearance. In addition to how the characters move and act, the amount of detail in faces and hair movement is remarkable. Every flaw and freckle can be seen, demonstrating the increased level of detail.

While there is no additional story content, Horizon Zero Dawn Remastered contains the Frozen Wilds DLC, which is well worth playing if you missed it when it first came out. It may seem stupid to note on how realistic the snow falls and reacts when moving through it, but it serves to immerse you in the diverse biomes in a way that few other games do. Frozen Wilds was an incredible addition, and since you already have such a fun base game, it’s an excellent package to get into.

Horizon Zero Dawn Remastered must be seen to be believed. It’s amazing how much better it is, despite the fact that the original was already excellent. It’s up to you if you want to spend the money again, but the upgrading path appears to be a good deal. Unless you’re a major fan of the series and want to relive Aloy’s journey with better graphics, there’s virtually no need to buy it. The story is the same, as is the gameplay, and with so many other titles to complete in 2024, it all depends on whether you have the time to devote your entire attention. However, it remains a beautiful game, and the remastered edition is the best way to enjoy it.

Review Overview

Gameplay: 90%

Controls: 88%

Aesthetics: 94%

Content: 92%

Accessibility: 85%

Value: 89%

Overall: 90%

A BREATHTAKING RETURN!

Summary:

“Horizon Zero Dawn Remastered” improves on the original game’s beautiful open environment and thrilling combat with improved visuals and performance. The gameplay is as engaging as ever, combining strategy, exploration, and action in clashes with fearsome robotic creatures. The controls are smooth and responsive, providing a rewarding experience for both new and veteran gamers. With improved graphics, lighting, and texture details, the remaster creates a more immersive experience within an already magnificent setting. This remake pays tribute to a modern classic, making it a worthy return for fans and an excellent starting point for new players.