Guerrilla Games is expanding the Horizon universe with Horizon Hunters Gathering, a new co-op action-adventure title currently in development for PC and PS5. Following its announcement in February, the studio is ramping up development, with a second closed playtest scheduled for May 22, 2026.
While the franchise is celebrated for single-player RPGs like Horizon Zero Dawn and Horizon Forbidden West, Hunters Gathering pivots toward team-based combat. Players take on the role of heroic hunters facing off against the iconic dinosaur-like machines, featuring a fresh art style and expanded lore.
Development Status and Availability
There is currently no set release date or window for the game. As noted in the debut trailer, the project is still in its early stages. Guerrilla has established a dedicated Discord channel and social media presence @PlayHorizonHG to share future updates. Fans are also keeping a close watch on upcoming events like the State of Play for potential release news.
The title is confirmed for PC and PS5. It will serve as a console exclusive for the PlayStation 5, with full support for cross-play and cross-progression linked to PlayStation accounts.
Gameplay Mechanics and Team Dynamics
Players can choose from a roster of specialized hunters, including soldiers, tanky mercenaries, stealthy infiltrators, and champions. The game supports up to three players in co-op, though those who prefer solo play can utilize two NPCs to assist in combat. Note that PS5 users will require a PlayStation Plus subscription to access the multiplayer features.
Combat is designed to be highly tactical and reactive, building upon the precision of previous Horizon titles while integrating dynamic team-based synergy. A rogue-lite perk system allows for deep customization, enabling players to tailor their builds and switch classes to fit team requirements.
A social hub known as “The Gathering” serves as a base of operations where players can customize campsites and upgrade gear. Two primary modes have been confirmed: Machine Incursion, which focuses on wave-based combat against boss-led enemies, and Cauldron Descent, a dungeon-like experience featuring multi-stage trials and hidden rewards.
Narrative and World-Building
Horizon Hunters Gathering is canon to the broader Horizon narrative. The game features a story-driven campaign that introduces new mysteries and characters. Narrative progression is tied to “Episodes,” which play a central role in the unfolding story.
Environments will range from familiar locations like Devil’s Thirst to the new region of Breakers’ Bounty, a diverse area consisting of jungles, ruins, and deserts. Each location offers unique atmospheric challenges and exploration opportunities.
The Roster of Hunters
While Aloy makes an appearance, the focus is on a new set of playable characters. The initial playtest introduced Rem, Sun, and Axle. The second playtest expands this roster with Ensa, a charismatic Oseram smuggler, and Shadow, a Carja covert operative accompanied by a Stalker machine sidekick.
The second round of closed playtesting is scheduled to run from May 22 to May 25, 2026. Developers have expressed that this project represents a long-held ambition for the studio, blending their experience with multiplayer mechanics into the established Horizon world.
Leave a Reply