The Horizon series continues to expand its universe. The conclusion of Horizon Forbidden West sets the stage for a malevolent AI threat heading towards Earth, prompting Aloy and her allies to once again fight for the survival of humanity.
With Horizon Forbidden West, Guerrilla Games showcased their ability to build on the success of Horizon Zero Dawn and take the franchise to new heights. However, for Horizon 3, a shift towards multiple playable protagonists is being considered, presenting both opportunities and challenges.
Advantages of Introducing Multiple Protagonists in Horizon 3
Aloy, despite her solitary upbringing, forms bonds with various companions on her adventures. These include individuals like Oseram Erend Vanguardsman, Tenakth tribe member Kotallo, Quen tribe representative Alva, and the enigmatic Sylens, who serves as both a mysterious ally and a potential adversary to Aloy. Playing as one of Aloy's allies could offer players fresh insights, as they belong to diverse tribes with unique perspectives.
This approach would reinforce the franchise's core theme that Aloy, despite her origins, is not isolated, and her journey cannot be accomplished alone but with the support of her companions. With a rich array of characters to choose from, each could provide valuable perspectives that complement Aloy's, introducing new gameplay mechanics based on their distinct abilities.
Exploring the Diverse Tribes of the Horizon Universe
Aloy encounters several tribes during her quests, each characterized by distinct beliefs and lifestyles. For example, the technologically advanced Carja tribe worships the sun, the Nora tribe remains secluded in their Sacred Land, the hardy Banuk tribe inhabits the snowy region known as The Cut, and the Quen tribe reveres the relics of the Old Ones.
Drawbacks of Implementing Multiple Protagonists in Horizon 3
Aloy has evolved into a beloved and iconic character, solidifying her place as one of PlayStation's most recognizable heroes. Her determined, independent nature resonates strongly with players, potentially making a protagonist switch unpopular among fans loyal to the heroine.
Additionally, the introduction of multiple protagonists could complicate matters, especially considering the franchise's intricate narrative spanning centuries and venturing into outer space with the Far Zeniths. Shifting the focus away from Aloy and incorporating additional viewpoints might overly convolute the storyline, making it challenging for players to follow.
The Future of the Horizon Franchise
While an official announcement for a third Horizon installment is pending, Forbidden West concludes with a cliffhanger hinting at a continuation. Guerrilla Games has also revealed plans for a multiplayer Horizon game featuring a fresh cast and a distinctive visual style.
The potential for multiple playable characters in the upcoming mainline Horizon game opens up exciting possibilities for Guerrilla Games, yet it also presents significant challenges that need to be navigated effectively.