Horizon Zero Dawn: All Difficulty Options Explained

Horizon Zero Dawn: All Difficulty Options Explained

As someone who’s been through countless battles against machines both big and small in Horizon Zero Dawn, I can confidently say that each difficulty mode offers a unique challenge that caters to different playstyles.


In Horizon Zero Dawn, players have the freedom to select from several difficulty levels, customizing their gaming experience according to their preference. The difficulty level you opt for determines whether your journey will be an enjoyable stroll or a grueling test of survival skills. If you thrive on challenges, you’ll likely select the tougher settings within the game. But how do these difficulties compare to one another? Let’s delve deeper into their unique aspects.

All Difficulty Options/Modes Explained in Horizon Zero Dawn

In the game Horizon Zero Dawn, there are six distinct levels of challenge, spanning from Story mode to Ultra Hard. The difficulty level you pick will primarily influence the damage your weapons inflict, the harm you sustain, and the number of health restoration items you acquire. Let’s examine each level to help you determine which one suits your play style best.

In Horizon Zero Dawn, players have the flexibility to adjust their game difficulty settings even during gameplay. To do this, simply navigate to the menu, then select the General tab where you’ll find various options for customizing the game’s difficulty level. This way, you can create a unique gaming experience tailored specifically to your preferences and skills.

Difficulty OptionDetailsDamage OutputElemental DamageDamage ReceivedHealth Acquired From Herbs
StoryLight and Breezy combat with an emphasis on narrative.400%200%10%100%
EasyAdequate level of difficulty for threats but still a major emphasis on exploration and narrative.150%100%50%100%
NormalA balance between narrative and combat challenge.100%100%100%100%
HardIncreased combat difficulty where players need to plan a bit before engaging in fights.90%100%125%80%
Very HardCombat encounters are tough and will require players to be on their toes to avoid Game Over.80%100%150%60%
Ultra HardAn unforgiving experience that not only increases damage received from threats but also nerfs Aloy’s weapons. For true survivalists out there.60%50%200%60%

How Difficult is Ultra Hard Mode in Horizon Zero Dawn?

Horizon Zero Dawn: All Difficulty Options Explained

In the toughest difficulty setting, known as Ultra Hard, a player’s survival abilities will be severely tested. It’s a merciless test of skill, suitable only for veterans of the game Horizon Zero Dawn, and it’s not advisable for beginners. Here are the modifications you can anticipate when playing in Ultra Hard mode.

  • Quick Detection: Enemies detect Aloy easily. The slightest mistake in stealth could agro a hoard of machines on you.
  • Increased Item Prices: Merchants in the game sell their items to Aloy at a higher price compared to other modes in the game. This introduces a layer of currency management to the game.
  • Ruthless Machines: The machines become aggressive and deal significantly more damage to Aloy. On the other hand, they also take a lot of damage from Aloy before getting down.
  • No Health Bars on Enemies: Ultra Hard mode completely removes the health bars on top of enemies. So, players have to keep the fight going without any indication of how much damage they’ve dealt.

For those embarking on a New Game+ in Horizon Zero Dawn, this mode is advisable because your equipment, weapons, and skills will be retained from the previous playthrough.

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2024-11-09 17:03