Horizon Forbidden West: Burning Shores Review
A Worthy Addition to the Horizon Series
Guerrilla Games has crafted a Horizon expansion that goes beyond simply providing more of the same. While Burning Shores retains the core elements that made Forbidden West so captivating – engaging combat, compelling sci-fi storytelling, and an emphasis on exploration – it also introduces fresh experiences that elevate the game to new heights.
- New machines like the buzzing Stingspawn and the colossal Bilegut provide unique challenges and rewards.
- Explosive crystals introduce an exciting new mechanic for machine destruction.
- A powerful new weapon adds a layer of depth to combat encounters.
A Stunning and Perilous New Setting
Burning Shores transports players to the post-apocalyptic ruins of Los Angeles, offering a visually stunning and geographically diverse setting. The archipelago’s design echoes the beauty of Forbidden West’s San Francisco region, but with the added threat of volcanic activity. The environment presents both awe-inspiring vistas and treacherous terrain, providing a constant sense of danger.
Engaging Combat Encounters
The combat in Burning Shores is as refined and exhilarating as ever, with a wealth of options for players to experiment with. The densely packed islands create contained arenas perfect for intense action sequences.
- New Valor Surge ultimate abilities like the Berserker mode add chaotic and fun new ways to engage enemies.
- The grapple critical strike eliminates the frustration of dealing with downed enemies at a distance.
- The level design encourages strategic use of the environment, creating dynamic and challenging combat encounters.
A Deepening of Aloy’s Character Arc
Burning Shores takes Aloy’s character arc to new depths through her interactions with Seyka, a strong-willed and resourceful character who mirrors Aloy’s own struggles. The dynamic between Aloy and Seyka adds a fresh layer of emotional depth to the story.
- Seyka’s presence reduces Aloy’s narrative burden, allowing for more natural dialogue and emotional exchanges.
- Their shared journey explores themes of resilience, acceptance, and the power of connection.
- Both characters offer compelling perspectives on the world of Horizon, providing insights into the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.
A Few Missteps
Despite its many strengths, Burning Shores does stumble in a few areas.
- Some boss encounters, like the arrow-sponge battle, can feel tedious and frustrating.
- The final encounter falls short of the spectacle and fluidity seen in the rest of the game.
- The storyline, while engaging, sometimes struggles to balance character development with its role as a bridge to the next game.
Overall Impression
Horizon Forbidden West: Burning Shores is a satisfying and enjoyable expansion that delivers a compelling story, thrilling action, and a stunning new environment. While its finale may leave some players wanting more, the overall experience is a testament to Guerrilla Games’s commitment to delivering high-quality, immersive content.
What We Said About Horizon Forbidden West
A triumphant combination of enthralling combat, top-tier creature and character design, and a captivating open world, Horizon Forbidden West is an absolute blast and fantastic showcase for the power of the PS5. Although the return of a couple of familiar series trappings and a noticeable lack of freeform climbing never threatens to derail the enjoyment, it does leave it falling frustratingly short of something revolutionary. Major evolutionary steps have firmly been placed in the right direction, however, and there’s no doubting the many, many hours of fun to have with Aloy, who stakes her claim further to be one of this generation of gaming’s greatest characters. Guerrilla has outdone itself yet again with Forbidden West, and at this trajectory, neither the horizon nor the sky’s the limit for what could come next. – Simon Cardy, February 14, 2022
Score: 9
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