Horizon Forbidden West drops players back into a massive open-world action RPG where protagonist Aloy faces aggressive machine threats across an expansive frontier. Surviving this brutal territory demands careful resource management and tactical combat execution.
Mastering the Frontier: Aloy’s Return in Guerrilla’s Sequel
Precise Waypoints and Inventory Management
According to Gameswelt, players can choose between exploring the vast world entirely on their own or utilizing an in-game navigation system that generates precise waypoints for active quests. Following the yellow markers on the screen prevents players from getting lost in the oversized map.
When gathering supplies, Gameswelt advises leaving certain items behind in the field when a tough fight approaches. Because items collected beyond Aloy’s inventory pouch capacity automatically ship to storage caches in settlements or field camps, players cannot access excess healing berries or crafting components instantly during combat if their pouches run empty. Keeping some plants growing nearby allows for quick mid-fight refilling.
Concentration Mechanics and Machine Scanning
Eurogamer notes that utilizing the concentration mechanic by pressing the right analog stick while aiming ranged weapons like hunters bows or tripwires activates slow motion, making it significantly easier to target machine weak points.
Players should scan every enemy by holding down the R3 button to identify elemental vulnerabilities and detachable components, as highlighted by both Gameswelt and Eurogamer. Stripping armor or containers off a living machine yields valuable crafting materials that otherwise risk destruction if left attached when the enemy dies.
Merchant Upgrades and Tactical Overrides
To maximize damage output, Eurogamer recommends regularly checking merchants for upgraded gear rather than relying solely on the starting hunter’s bow, and embedding weapon coils to bolster inherent stats.
Furthermore, unlocking the ability to override machines allows players to turn hostile wildlife into temporary allies during chaotic wilderness skirmishes. Mastering the timing of the dodge roll grants a brief window of invulnerability, letting Aloy roll directly through heavy ranged attacks and explosive projectile fire.
Worth a look