It’s finally here, darlings! Horizon Forbidden West has arrived, and I can hardly contain my excitement. We’ve been waiting for this sequel for what feels like an eternity, and trust me, it’s worth the wait. Now, let’s dive into the juicy details and get you all set for your adventure with our fierce heroine, Aloy.
So, picture this: a whole new world to explore, jam-packed with exciting features, breathtaking locales, and a story that promises to be as vast as the horizon itself. Sounds dreamy, right? But here’s the catch: all these new goodies can be a bit overwhelming, especially for newcomers and even us seasoned fans in those initial hours of gameplay.
But fret not, lovely gamers! We’re here to the rescue with ten essential tips and tricks to ensure you navigate the Forbidden West like a pro.
Don’t Stress Over Zero Dawn’s Story
You might wonder if you need to go back and play the first game, Horizon Zero Dawn, before jumping into Forbidden West. Well, here’s the scoop: while it’s totally recommended because the narrative is just mind-blowing, you won’t be lost if you decide to start with Forbidden West. The brilliant folks at Guerrilla Games have your back. They give you a juicy recap of the essential stuff from the first game, so you won’t feel like you’ve missed out on the whole party.
But, and here’s a little twist, this recap is like a spoiler buffet for Aloy’s first journey. So, if you want the full surprise experience of game one without any spoilers, maybe stick to the original game first.
Use Your Focus, A Lot
Guerrilla Games has worked its magic on that once-annoying sound your trusty Focus used to make. You know, that nifty device that’s your go-to for checking out the world around you? Well, in Forbidden West, it’s become your new best friend for a bunch of cool reasons.
First off, you can now send out a pulse with your Focus to give you a quick lay of the land. It’s like your futuristic second sight, and it’s incredibly handy, especially when you’re trying to figure out what’s what in this brave new world. And believe me, there’s a lot to take in.
But here’s the real kicker – your Focus isn’t just about looking at pretty scenery. It’s your personal guide to all the shiny new features and opportunities this game has to offer. When you’re starting out, it can be a bit overwhelming trying to figure out when and where to use all those awesome new tools. That’s where your trusty Focus steps in. If you ever find yourself stuck or just plain confused, give it a whirl, and let it be your guiding light.
Oh, and keep an eye out for those rocky surfaces with a splash of yellow on your scanner. That’s your cue that you can go all Spider-Woman and climb up those bad boys. Thanks to the new free-climb mechanics, the world just got a whole lot more accessible.
Now, let’s talk about the real nitty-gritty – battling those mighty machines. Your Focus isn’t just for taking in the view; it’s a game-changer in combat too. While scoping out high-tech details on your mechanical foes isn’t a brand-new trick, Guerrilla Games has given it a makeover for Forbidden West. They’ve made it way easier to spot those machine weaknesses when you’re in the heat of battle.
You Can Find Tutorial Notes Later
As you dive into the world of Forbidden West, you’ll notice that it’s quite an information-packed journey, especially during those initial hours. It can feel like trying to sip from a firehose! But hey, don’t sweat it, because there’s a nifty trick to help you out.
See, the game’s got your back, and it knows you can’t remember everything on the spot. Those handy hints? Yeah, they tend to vanish in a flash, or new stuff pops up before you can even blink. But here’s the secret: you don’t have to cram it all in your brain.
Think of your notebook menu tab as your trusty sidekick. It’s where all the juicy details are stashed, from the basics of movement to the ins and outs of upgrading your armor. So, whenever you feel like you’ve missed a beat, just give it a quick skim. Who knows, you might stumble upon a tiny but super useful nugget that’ll make your journey in Forbidden West even more epic!
Skimp On Supplies At Your Peril
Embracing the wild terrain of our environment is an absolute game-changer, and guess what? With this fabulous new auto-stash feature, you’re about to become the ultimate resource gatherer! You know how it goes – sometimes you stumble upon more supplies than you can possibly carry. Well, fret not, because now those extra goodies will be whisked away to handy storage chests scattered across major settlements and cozy shelters. It’s like having your own little treasure trove.
And let me tell you, it’s all about grabbing everything you can lay your hands on. Just like in the first game, your success, be it healing or upgrading, relies on tracking down those precious ingredients and elusive machine parts. Picture this: you’re in the heat of battle, and suddenly, you’re out of weapon-crafting materials. Disaster, right?
But wait, there’s more! Forbidden West takes the resource game to a whole new level. Not only do you have your usual suspects, but there are also extra resources to uncover, and oh, the possibilities! Picture this scenario: you’re out there, scavenging like a pro, and you stumble upon top-quality ingredients. Now, here’s the twist – take those treasures to the world’s most talented chefs, and you’ll be treated to a scrumptious meal that comes with some nifty stat boosts. Talk about a win-win, right? You’ll be tackling those challenges with style and grace.
But we’re not done yet! If you’ve got a flair for fashion and want to stand out, Forbidden West’s got you covered. Collect those dazzling dye components, and then, you can strut your stuff and customize your look. It’s all about embracing your individuality and letting your personality shine through.
So, there you have it – gather, craft, dine, and shine your way through the Forbidden West. Adventure awaits, and with these tips, you’ll conquer it all!
Get Chatty
You know, in the world of Guerrilla’s latest game, they’ve really upped the ante when it comes to side content. It’s not just your typical run-of-the-mill stuff anymore. So, before you casually stroll past that NPC waving at you in the bustling market, consider this: they might just hold the key to some seriously cool stuff.
Take, for instance, this awesome new weapon you can get your hands on pretty early in the game. Sounds intriguing, right? Well, here’s the catch – the game won’t exactly shout it out loud for you. Nope, you’ve got to stop and have a little chat with those clever tinkerers who are quietly tinkering away. Who would’ve thought, right?
But that’s not all. As you roam through this vast world, you’ll stumble upon folks scattered all over the place. They’re like hidden gems waiting to be discovered. And what do they have to offer, you ask? Information, my friend! They’ll spill the beans on cool locations to explore, fun activities, and even some juicy narrative-focused side quests. Trust me, you don’t want to miss out on those.
Oh, and have you heard about Forbidden West’s new in-universe strategy game, Machine Strike? It’s a game within a game, and it’s a blast. And then there are the fight pits – a real challenge for the brave souls out there. So, do yourself a favor, don’t just breeze past these in-game characters. Give ’em a chat. You might just uncover a world of adventures you didn’t even know existed.
Choose Wisely In The Revamped Skill Tree
Let’s break down these valuable tips into six distinct categories, all while maintaining a friendly and informal tone from a feminine perspective:
1. Skill Tree Variety: If you’re the kind of gamer who prefers the subtle approach, slipping through shadows and taking out foes from behind cover, the Infiltrator section should be your go-to choice. On the flip side, for those of us who relish the thrill of close-quarters combat, pouring points into the Warrior skills is the way to go.
2. The Power of Valor Surges: Now, let’s talk strategy! The game has thrown a curveball with Valor Surges. These game-changing moves aren’t handed to you on a silver platter; you’ve got to earn them. To unlock these bad boys, you’ll need to master three abilities that lead up to them. Take a moment to study the six categories and the unique Valor Surges they offer before you decide where to invest your hard-earned experience points.
3. Pay Attention to Valor Surges: It’s all about those Valor Surges, ladies! These game-changers can make or break your gameplay. Don’t just rush into leveling up your favorite skills. Delve into each category and understand what the Valor Surges bring to the table. Your choices here will shape your in-game experience.
4. Skills and World Activities: The skills you choose aren’t just for show; they tie into what you can do in the game world. For instance, making your mark in the fighting pits requires unlocking the first two combos in the Warrior skill tree. So, think about what you want to accomplish in the game world, and let your skill choices reflect that.
5. Stealth or Brawn: Sneaky and quiet or bold and brawny? The choice is yours, and that’s the beauty of this game’s skill tree. Whether you’re more cat burglar or gladiator, there’s a path that suits your playstyle.
6. Crafting Your Unique Path: Embrace your inner gaming strategist! Take the time to explore the skill tree and decide how you want to shape your character’s journey. This isn’t just about what you like; it’s about what makes you an unstoppable force in this virtual world.
Remember, it’s your adventure, and your choices will define it. So, grab that controller, dive in, and let your inner gamer shine!
Buyer Beware
Well, isn’t it great that you finally have some time to dive into the bustling markets and put those clinking metal shards to good use? You know, those little bits of treasure that feel like they’re just itching to be spent. But hold on a minute before you go on a wild shopping spree! Metal shards are like that precious currency that makes the world go round in this adventure. They’re not just for buying stuff; they’re also the magic dust that can supercharge your gear.
Now, in the early stages of the game, you might find yourself in a bit of a shard shortage. It happens to the best of us. Gathering enough shards and hunting down those elusive machine parts can be quite the challenge. So, what’s the savvy hunter to do? Be a bit picky, that’s what.
Sure, that gleaming new bow might catch your eye, and it’s all shiny and promising, but think twice. Is it really worth trading in when you could be saving up for something even cooler? You see, diversity is your best friend in this world. Having a range of weapons and traps at your disposal can be a game-changer down the line. So, maybe hold off on that bow and consider expanding your arsenal first.
One more nugget of wisdom: merchants are a bit like a box of chocolates. You never really know what you’re gonna get with each one you stumble upon. So, it’s essential to check your inventory and keep your priorities straight. Aim for a diverse set of weapon types and different ways to dish out damage. After all, in this unpredictable world, you’ll want all the tricks up your sleeve from the get-go. Happy hunting, and may those metal shards lead you to greatness!
Don’t Be Afraid Of Fast Travel
When the world finally unfolds its doors for exploration, girl, you’re in for a treat in Forbidden West! Imagine this – you’re out there, free as a bird, and guess what? You can fast-travel from any campfire without spending a single shiny coin. Yep, that’s right, sweetie. All you’ve got to do is mosey on over to a campfire or any location, and voila, you’ve got yourself a teleportation spot for the future.
So, picture this: you’re on your adventure, and you spot a campfire on the horizon. Don’t even think twice, darling; head straight for it! You don’t need to light it up or anything fancy like that. Just get close enough to feel its warmth, and you’ll get a nifty little message saying you’ve discovered it. It’s like building your own travel network but without the techy stuff.
But hey, those fast travel packs are still your BFFs. Keep a few of those bad boys handy, and you’ll be thanking your lucky stars. Why, you ask? Well, picture this scenario: you’ve been trekking through the wild, and campfires are scarcer than a unicorn on a Monday. That’s when those trusty packs come to the rescue. No matter where you are, just pop one open, and boom, you’re back at a fire or a bustling settlement. It’s a lifesaver for those moments when you’re in the middle of nowhere.
But hey, if you’re in no rush and want to savor every breathtaking moment in this stunning landscape, more power to you, sis. Forbidden West is all about that wanderlust, so take your time, soak in the beauty, and make this adventure your very own. There’s no judgment here; it’s all about embracing the freedom of the open world.
Tame A Mount Early
No matter how much we adore the convenience of fast travel in the sequel, there’s one thing we can’t escape: the need to find places before we can magically teleport there. But hey, there’s a nifty little trick to speed up this process – hop on a mount as soon as you can. Trust me, it’s a game-changer.
Lucky for us, the game’s got our backs. It gently guides us towards machines we’ve already learned to override early on, and voila, we’ve got our very own robotic steed. And here’s the kicker – once you’ve tamed one, you can summon it whenever you please. So, feel free to wander off into the wild, knowing that your trusty mechanized companion is just a call away when you need it.
But here’s the fun part – you won’t be hitched to the same steed forever. The game’s loaded with more mount options than ever before. Just head on over to the machine catalog in your menu, and you’ll spot a cute little hoofprint mark next to each rideable machine. It’s like having your own personal stable, making it a breeze to keep track of your favorite mechanical buddies for future adventures.
Get Serious With Side Content
In the first game, it was all about following the golden path, but the sequel? Well, it’s a different story. The sequel practically encourages you to take detours from that familiar yellow brick road. You’ll find yourself spoilt for choice, with a plethora of activities that not only boost your gameplay but also add intriguing layers to the world Aloy explores.
One of these activities lets Aloy superimpose an ancient image onto a current, ruined site. It might not be crucial to the main narrative, but it’s a haunting reminder of the stakes in Aloy’s adventure. Sometimes, we need that extra perspective, right?
If you’re the puzzle-solving type, you’re in for a treat. Delving into old ruins to unearth relics will certainly satisfy that itch. And if you’re all about upgrading your gear, picking up a machine-hunting contract is the way to go. Trust me; you’ll thank me later when those nifty machine parts come in handy.
What’s really fascinating is how Forbidden West weaves these rich side quests into the narrative, especially those centered around past friends. It’s like catching up with old pals and uncovering their stories all over again. So, don’t be afraid to take those delightful detours; you might just stumble upon an adventure within an adventure!
