Thu Feb 05 22:40:00 UTC 2026: ### Horizon Universe Expands with Guerrilla’s “Horizon Hunters Gathering”

The Story:
Guerrilla Games has officially announced “Horizon Hunters Gathering,” a cooperative action game set within the Horizon universe for PS5 and PC. The game, which supports up to three players, focuses on tactical machine hunting with an emphasis on teamwork and skill-based combat. This announcement marks a significant expansion of the Horizon franchise, delving into cooperative gameplay that was initially envisioned during the early stages of the Horizon world’s development. A closed playtest via the PlayStation Beta Program is scheduled for the end of February.

Key Points:

  • “Horizon Hunters Gathering” is a cooperative action game developed by Guerrilla Games for PS5 and PC.
  • The game supports up to three players who team up as Hunters to combat deadly machines.
  • Two game modes were revealed: Machine Incursion and Cauldron Descent.
  • Hunters have unique skills, playstyles, and weapons that can be further customized through a rogue-lite perk system.
  • The game features a narrative campaign with new mysteries, characters, and threats, considered fully canon within the Horizon universe.
  • Players can connect in a social hub called Hunters Gathering to customize Hunters, visit vendors, and team up for adventures.
  • Cross-play and cross-progression are supported between PS5 and PC using the same PlayStation account.
  • A closed playtest will be available through the PlayStation Beta Program at the end of February.

Key Takeaways:

  • Guerrilla Games is leveraging its experience from both Killzone multiplayer titles and the Horizon series to create a new cooperative experience within the Horizon universe.
  • The inclusion of cross-play and cross-progression is a player-friendly feature that will likely increase engagement and accessibility.
  • The expansion of the Horizon universe into a cooperative game broadens the franchise’s appeal, potentially attracting a new player base.

Impact Analysis:

The announcement of “Horizon Hunters Gathering” signifies a strategic move by Guerrilla Games and Sony Interactive Entertainment to diversify the Horizon franchise beyond single-player experiences. This expansion can have several long-term impacts:

  • Franchise Longevity: By introducing a cooperative gameplay model, the Horizon series can maintain player engagement beyond the lifespan of traditional single-player titles.
  • New Revenue Streams: The live-service nature of a cooperative game can provide ongoing revenue opportunities through in-game purchases and expansions.
  • Brand Synergy: The integration of cross-play and cross-progression fosters a unified player community across PS5 and PC, strengthening the Horizon brand across platforms.

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