An MMO based on Sony’s acclaimed Horizon series is set to expand the franchise’s reach. Titled Horizon Steel Frontiers, this new game will initially launch on mobile and PC platforms, bypassing the PlayStation 5 for now. The move exemplifies Sony Interactive Entertainment’s strategy to diversify beyond its traditional PlayStation console business.
Leading the development of Horizon Steel Frontiers is NCSoft, the renowned MMO developer behind popular titles like the Guild Wars series and Throne and Liberty. The project is a collaborative effort with original Horizon developer Guerrilla Games and Sony, promising to deliver an experience that builds on the beloved elements of the Horizon universe.
Expanding the Horizon Universe
Horizon Steel Frontiers aims to enhance the exhilarating robot dinosaur hunting action seen in Horizon Zero Dawn and Horizon Forbidden West. The game promises greater player freedom, “deeply customizable combat,” and advanced MMORPG systems. Players can engage in “large-scale raids,” compete for resources, and create characters from various tribes, all while navigating the richly detailed world.
Combat will feature familiar mechanics such as status effects, grappling onto massive machines, and utilizing dropped weapons against foes. A unique feature allows players to carry these weapons on their mounts for future battles. The presence of Tallnecks, iconic to the Horizon series, adds to the game’s allure.
Setting and Storyline
The action unfolds in a region known as the Deadlands, inspired by the landscapes of New Mexico and Arizona. According to Guerrilla studio director Jan-Bart Van Beek, players will share this environment with “thousands of other players,” maintaining the series’ theme of balancing humanity, technology, and nature.
While Horizon Steel Frontiers marks a new direction, Guerrilla Games continues to develop “epic solo adventures” for Aloy, the protagonist of the mainline entries. The studio is also reportedly working on its own Horizon multiplayer game, showcasing the franchise’s growing versatility.
Strategic Moves and Industry Challenges
Handing the reins of Horizon Steel Frontiers to NCSoft, a studio with extensive MMO expertise, is seen as a strategic decision by Sony. The company has been pivoting towards live-service games, though not all efforts have been successful. While Helldivers 2 achieved significant success, other ventures like Concord and a multiplayer adaptation of The Last of Us fell short of expectations.
Sony’s acquisition of Bungie also faced hurdles, with the company recently writing down the value of Bungie’s assets by $204 million due to Destiny 2‘s struggles. This places additional pressure on the forthcoming Marathon to perform well in the market.
Future Prospects and Anticipation
As of now, Sony and NCSoft have not announced a release date for Horizon Steel Frontiers. However, the Horizon franchise’s popularity suggests that the game could become a significant addition to the MMO landscape. The gameplay trailer showcases the expected high-quality action, with the potential for thrilling cooperative play reminiscent of Monster Hunter.
Notably, players will not assume the role of Aloy, a decision that may resonate well with fans who find her reluctance to accept help from allies a recurring theme in her solo adventures.
In conclusion, Horizon Steel Frontiers represents Sony’s ongoing efforts to broaden its gaming portfolio and capture a diverse audience. As the game prepares to make its debut, it stands as a testament to the evolving landscape of the gaming industry and the enduring appeal of the Horizon universe.
