The first Horizon game is Horizon Zero Dawn.
Many players wonder which horizon game is first. The answer can be a bit confusing with multiple entries in the series. You might also be curious about the chronological order. Let’s clarify this point to help you dive into the series.
It’s easy to get caught up in sequels, but Horizon Zero Dawn is where the journey begins. It sets the stage for the world and introduces Aloy. Understanding this will make the narrative more impactful.
Which Horizon Game is First? Exploring the Beginning of the Acclaimed Series
It’s easy to get confused when diving into a big video game series, especially one as popular as Horizon. With stunning visuals, cool robot dinosaurs, and a captivating story, it’s no wonder many gamers want to experience the series from the very beginning. So, let’s get straight to the point: the first game in the Horizon series is Horizon Zero Dawn. That’s the game that kicked it all off!
Understanding the Release Order
While it might seem obvious now, release order isn’t always the same as the chronological order within a game’s story. But in the case of Horizon, the release order is perfectly aligned with the story’s timeline. This means you can play through the games in the order they came out and not miss a beat. This is great news for gamers because it allows you to witness Aloy’s journey and growth as it was intended. Horizon Zero Dawn was released first, introducing us to Aloy and her world, followed by its sequel, Horizon Forbidden West.
Why is This Important?
Playing games in the correct order is essential for a few reasons. First, you get a much better understanding of the story. Characters, plot points, and world-building elements are built upon game by game. Starting with the second game would mean missing the foundational knowledge that makes the story so engaging. Imagine trying to read the second book in a series without reading the first—you’d be pretty lost! Second, playing in order allows you to appreciate how the game developers improved upon gameplay mechanics, graphics, and storytelling techniques. You get to witness the series’ evolution firsthand. Lastly, starting with the original helps you establish a relationship with the main character, Aloy. You get to see her grow and develop throughout her adventure, making the story feel more personal.
Horizon Zero Dawn: The Genesis of Aloy’s Journey
Released in 2017, Horizon Zero Dawn is where it all begins. The game introduces us to a post-apocalyptic world where nature has reclaimed the Earth and mechanical creatures roam the land. You play as Aloy, a young outcast who is on a quest to learn about her mysterious origins and the secrets of the old world. This game is not just an introduction to the story but also to the unique and compelling gameplay.
A World Unlike Any Other
The world of Horizon Zero Dawn is striking in its beauty and scale. You’ll find yourself exploring lush forests, towering mountains, and sprawling deserts. Each environment is filled with details that make the world feel alive. The mixture of natural beauty with the rusty and decaying remnants of advanced technology provides a unique atmosphere that sets Horizon apart. The vibrant colors and intricate details of the environments are a testament to the game’s visual beauty. It’s a world that you simply want to explore more and more.
The Unique Gameplay
Horizon Zero Dawn isn’t just about exploration; it features a really unique combat system. Aloy uses bows, traps, and other tools to battle the mechanical beasts. These creatures are not just generic enemies but pose varied challenges, requiring strategic thinking and precise aim. The game encourages you to learn their weaknesses and exploit them. You must learn how to tear off components, utilize elemental attacks, and plan your approaches carefully. Crafting and scavenging play an important role too, allowing you to build better gear and improve your chances of survival. You must learn to gather resources, craft ammunition, and upgrade your weapons. These elements add a layer of depth and immersion to the gameplay that is really interesting.
The Story Unfolds
The story of Horizon Zero Dawn is one of mystery and discovery. As Aloy travels the land, she unravels the secrets of the past and learns about the catastrophic events that led to the downfall of humanity. There are many twists and turns in the narrative that will keep you hooked. Along the way, you’ll meet a cast of interesting characters, each with their own motivations and backstories, making the world feel rich and populated. It’s a story that is both personal to Aloy and large in scope, and it keeps you invested from beginning to end. The game does a fantastic job of balancing the personal story with the broader world lore. This keeps you guessing and engaged at every step of your journey.
The Importance of Starting with Horizon Zero Dawn
Starting with Horizon Zero Dawn is not just the right thing to do chronologically, but it’s essential for getting the most out of the series. The game lays the groundwork for everything that happens later. It introduces you to the world, the characters, and the mechanics that make the series so engaging. It’s more than just a prelude; it’s a crucial part of the overall experience.
Character Development
Aloy’s journey in Horizon Zero Dawn sets up her development for the rest of the series. You watch her grow from an outcast to a respected warrior. Her growth during the events of the game is important to understand her motivations in subsequent games. Her character arc begins here, making it very important to experience before moving on to further adventures. Her journey is a very key part of the gaming experience.
Understanding the Lore
The world of Horizon is very rich with lore, and Horizon Zero Dawn is where you learn most of it. The game reveals the history of the world, how the machines came to be, and what exactly happened to the old ones (the humans who lived before). This foundational knowledge is very important for understanding events in the later games. Without this knowledge, you might miss many subtle details and appreciate the story’s complexities fully.
Gameplay Foundations
The core gameplay of the Horizon series is introduced in Horizon Zero Dawn. You’ll get used to the combat mechanics, the crafting system, and the exploration elements. Starting with the first game allows you to gradually build your skills and understand the game’s unique systems. It’s a good idea to learn the basics before you tackle the new mechanics and features in the sequel. This way, the gameplay will become familiar and you will learn more about how the game works.
What Happens After Horizon Zero Dawn?
Once you’ve finished Horizon Zero Dawn, the natural next step is to jump into Horizon Forbidden West, the second game in the series. This game picks up after the events of the first and continues Aloy’s story. Just like playing the first game first, you will gain all benefits by playing the second game after the first.
Horizon Forbidden West: Continuing the Story
In Horizon Forbidden West, Aloy travels to new regions, faces new threats, and learns even more about the world. The second game introduces more complex mechanics, even more detailed graphics, and a deeper storyline, building upon the things that made the first game so popular. This also introduces new machines and new challenges that require some serious skill to overcome. This helps the player to get involved in the game.
The Importance of Continuity
Playing the games in order provides a seamless transition from one chapter to the next. The characters, relationships, and plot points in Forbidden West are a direct result of what happened in Zero Dawn. Continuing in the proper order enhances the game’s effect, making the story more meaningful to you, the player. This is why playing in order is necessary to get the full experience.
Looking Ahead
While the future of the Horizon series is always exciting and there are future plans for the games, starting from the beginning remains the best way to dive into this captivating world. With Horizon Zero Dawn as the starting point, you’re properly setting yourself up to enjoy the rest of the series as the story is properly laid out.
Why Start at the Beginning? A Quick Recap
To make it easy, here is a quick recap of why starting with Horizon Zero Dawn is so important:
- Story Comprehension: You’ll understand the main story, characters, and lore.
- Character Development: You’ll follow Aloy’s growth from the start.
- Gameplay Progression: You can master the mechanics before moving on to the more complex challenges in the other games.
- Appreciate the Evolution: You will witness the improvements the developers have made in each game.
Basically, starting with Horizon Zero Dawn is the most sensible way to experience the series.
Navigating the Horizon Universe: Tips for New Players
Getting into a new game series can be daunting, but don’t worry! Here are a few tips to help you start your journey through the world of Horizon:
Take Your Time
Don’t feel rushed to complete the main story right away. Explore the open world, engage in side quests, and take in the scenery. You will find hidden secrets and valuable resources that will make your experience even better. The world is rich with detail and things to do.
Experiment with Combat
The combat in Horizon is quite deep. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different weapons, ammo types, and strategies. Learn the weaknesses of different machines and how to exploit them. This will give you a higher chance of survival and make you a better fighter.
Gather Resources
Crafting is a big part of the gameplay. Always keep an eye out for resources and make sure to gather them. You will need to craft weapons, ammo, and upgrades. These resources will help you throughout your journey so don’t underestimate their value.
Pay Attention to the Story
The story in the Horizon games is captivating and full of interesting details. Pay attention to the dialogue, read the text logs, and try to piece together the mysteries of the world. This will make the story much more engaging and allow you to enjoy the world even more.
Don’t Be Afraid to Ask For Help
If you find yourself stuck, don’t hesitate to look up guides or tips online. There is a big community of Horizon players who are always willing to help new players learn the ropes. You are not alone in your journey!
The Appeal of the Horizon Series
The Horizon series has captured the hearts of many gamers for a number of good reasons. The combination of amazing graphics, a deep and engaging story, and fun gameplay is what makes it so good. Here is what makes it so popular:
Visually Stunning World
The graphics in the Horizon games are truly amazing. The environments are extremely detailed, from the lush forests to the rusted ruins of the old world. The characters and the robotic enemies are also visually impressive. The level of detail in the world makes the entire experience very immersive.
Compelling Story
The story in the Horizon series is full of mystery, drama, and interesting characters. It tackles thought-provoking themes and keeps you invested from beginning to end. The narrative is what drives the game, and it’s the reason people are so hooked on these games.
Engaging Combat
The combat system in the Horizon games is very strategic and rewarding. The machines pose a challenge, and defeating them is really gratifying. The depth of the combat mechanics keeps the game fun, while encouraging you to develop your skills.
Strong Main Character
Aloy is a well-developed and relatable main character. Her journey of self-discovery is very compelling, and you find yourself wanting to see her succeed. Her personality and character development are key reasons why many players are so fond of the games.
In summary, if you’re wanting to dive into the fascinating world of Horizon, start with Horizon Zero Dawn. This game is the perfect introduction to the characters, story, and gameplay mechanics that make the series so popular. This will provide a smooth and enjoyable experience. Now that you know the correct order, jump into this amazing adventure.
Horizon Zero Dawn Story in 5 Minutes
Final Thoughts
Horizon Zero Dawn is the first game in the franchise. Players experience Aloy’s journey in a post-apocalyptic world. The game introduces the fascinating setting and core gameplay.
Following Zero Dawn, Horizon Forbidden West continues Aloy’s story. This entry expands upon the world with new regions and threats. The story connects directly to the first game.
Therefore, answering the question of ‘which horizon game is first’, the answer is Horizon Zero Dawn. It’s where your Horizon journey must begin.
