Horizon Zero Dawn Remastered review

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As a seasoned gamer with decades of gaming under my belt, I must confess that I was initially skeptical about Horizon Zero Dawn Remastered. After all, the original was already a visual powerhouse when it first graced our screens. But boy, was I wrong!

In contrast to those who believe Horizon Zero Dawn Remastered isn’t necessary considering the original’s quality, it becomes evident from the start of your role as Aloy that developers Nixxes have put in immense effort to make it visually stunning. I initially harbored skepticism towards a remaster, but I must admit, it was delightful to return to this universe. Guerrilla produced an extraordinary game initially, and I eagerly seize any opportunity to relive its captivating storyline.

I’m not completely sold on the necessity of this version for people, given how impressive the original entry is. However, there are undeniable enhancements that make it competitive with other notable PlayStation games from recent years. The world appears more vibrant and dynamic, from the living quality of natural environments to the movements of NPCs in bustling cities. The way vegetation adapts to different weather conditions, such as wind-tossed grass or raindrops on the ground, creates a breathtaking immersion within the natural environment.

In the remastered version of Horizon Zero Dawn, the textures have been revamped to match, if not surpass, their original appearance in Forbidden West. The ever-changing weather patterns and the sun’s harmonious interaction with the landscapes remain awe-inspiring. Unlike other post-apocalyptic settings, Horizon has always emphasized nature reclaiming human structures. With the use of PlayStation 5’s advanced technology, Nixxes has enhanced an already beautiful game, adding more foliage, detail, and overall richness, making it even more captivating.

Characters in this game seem more lifelike now. They carry out their daily routines and respond to their surroundings in a way that makes the world feel alive and interactive. It’s as if you’ve stepped into a vibrant, dynamic environment, something the previous version didn’t quite achieve. The animations have been refined and expanded, with an increased use of motion capture technology to enhance realism even further. Additionally, the way characters move isn’t the only aspect that’s improved; their facial expressions and hair movements are incredibly detailed. Every imperfection and freckle is clearly visible, showcasing the high level of detail added to the game.

Horizon Zero Dawn Remastered comes with the additional content of The Frozen Wilds DLC. If you missed out on playing it during its initial release, this is your opportunity to delve into it. The realistic depiction of snow falling and reacting as you traverse through it might seem trivial, but it significantly enhances the immersion into different biomes, a feat seldom achieved by other games. The Frozen Wilds expansion was exceptional, and with an already engaging base game, it makes for a satisfying experience to explore.

The revamped Horizon Zero Dawn is truly an awe-inspiring sight, even more impressive than its already stunning original version. If you’re considering purchasing it again, that decision might depend on your dedication to the series and eagerness to revisit Aloy’s story with enhanced graphics. However, if you’re simply looking for fresh gaming experiences amidst the abundance of 2024 releases, the remastered edition’s appeal may hinge on whether you can devote sufficient time to it. Nonetheless, Horizon Zero Dawn remains an exceptional game, and this remastered version offers the optimal way to enjoy it.

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2024-11-05 13:46