Horizon Forbidden West: Does It Have DLC?

Horizon Forbidden West, one of the most anticipated games of 2022, developed by Guerrilla Games, is an epic action RPG that continues the story of Aloy in a post-apocalyptic world. But, beyond its stunning visuals, deep storylines, and captivating open world, the burning question for many players is: Does it have DLC?

The answer is a resounding yes! In April 2023, the expansion titled "Burning Shores" was released. This DLC adds a whole new area to explore south of the Tenakth Clan Lands, introducing new characters, quests, and machines. The setting, based in the volcanic region of what was once Los Angeles, provides a fiery and dangerous backdrop that pushes Aloy's story further into the depths of discovery and survival.

1. What to Expect from the DLC?

In Burning Shores, Aloy faces tougher enemies, more challenging combat, and a new story arc that expands on the lore of the game world. The environment is rich with details, ranging from lava flows to mysterious ruins, making it both visually and narratively compelling. The new machines are also a major highlight, providing players with fresh challenges and rewards.

Notable features of the DLC include:

• A brand-new, beautifully crafted region to explore.
• New machines such as the Bilegut, a giant toad-like machine that spews acid.
• New flying mounts that expand traversal options in a way that makes the open world even more immersive.
• A gripping story that ties into the original game's lore while introducing new characters and threats.

For those who have completed the main game, this expansion is a significant addition that offers hours of additional gameplay, and it’s designed to be played after the main story, allowing players to pick up where they left off with their fully upgraded Aloy.

2. How Does It Compare to the Base Game?

Many players have praised Burning Shores for its refined combat mechanics and more aggressive enemy AI, which makes battles more intense. Additionally, the visuals in this expansion are even more impressive, showcasing the power of next-gen consoles like the PlayStation 5. The dynamic weather systems, the eruption of volcanoes, and the detailed machine designs all push the boundaries of what the game engine can do.

However, the DLC does come with one limitation: it is only available for PlayStation 5 players. The developers decided to focus on the next-gen console's capabilities, leaving behind PlayStation 4 owners. This decision was controversial, but it allowed the developers to optimize the game for better performance and graphical fidelity.

3. Should You Get the DLC?

If you're a fan of Horizon Forbidden West, the Burning Shores DLC is almost a must-buy. The continuation of Aloy's journey is not just a superficial addition—it deepens the story and expands the world in meaningful ways. The new machines and environments offer fresh challenges for seasoned players, and the emotional narrative brings even more depth to Aloy's character arc.

The cost of the DLC is justified by the amount of content provided, as it offers hours of gameplay and a rich new world to explore. Plus, it seamlessly integrates into the main game, giving players a reason to return to the Forbidden West long after they've completed the main campaign.

Pros of the DLC:

• Stunning new environment with a volcanic twist.
• Exciting new enemies and machines to conquer.
• A compelling continuation of the story.
• New traversal methods and combat strategies.

Cons:

• Only available on PS5, leaving out a large portion of the player base.
• Some players may find the story a bit short compared to the main game.

Overall, Burning Shores is a solid addition to an already fantastic game, providing new adventures for those who can't get enough of Aloy and her journey through this richly detailed world.

4. Expanding the Horizon Universe

With the release of this DLC, there’s speculation about what’s next for the Horizon series. The success of Burning Shores has set the stage for potential future expansions or even a third installment in the franchise. Fans are eagerly awaiting news on what Guerrilla Games has planned next, whether it's more DLC or another full game. Given the success of both Horizon Zero Dawn and Horizon Forbidden West, it’s clear that Aloy’s journey is far from over.

The future of this franchise looks incredibly bright, and as long as the developers continue to push boundaries with storytelling, gameplay, and world-building, it will remain a beloved part of the gaming landscape for years to come.