The wait is finally over! Horizon Zero Dawn Remastered is set to release tomorrow, October 31, 2024, for PlayStation 5 and PC. This remastered edition breathes new life into the iconic open-world action RPG, delivering upgraded visuals, enhanced performance, and exclusive content that promises to elevate the original experience.
Let’s dive into everything you need to know about Horizon Zero Dawn Remastered, including gameplay improvements, graphical enhancements, and what fans can expect from this much-anticipated launch.
Overview of Horizon Zero Dawn Remastered
Horizon Zero Dawn, developed by Guerrilla Games, is an open-world action RPG set in a post-apocalyptic world overrun by mechanical creatures. Originally released in 2017, the game quickly gained critical acclaim for its beautiful environments, compelling story, and innovative combat mechanics.
With Horizon Zero Dawn Remastered, Guerrilla Games brings back Aloy’s journey with enhanced visuals and performance upgrades designed to utilize the latest gaming hardware.
Release Date and Platforms
The official release date for Horizon Zero Dawn Remastered is set for October 31, 2024. It will be available on PlayStation 5 and PC.
| Platform | Release Date |
|---|---|
| PlayStation 5 | October 31, 2024 |
| PC | October 31, 2024 |
This remaster is designed to deliver an enhanced experience for next-gen platforms, taking advantage of the PS5’s processing power and leveraging high-end PCs’ capabilities.
Key Features and Improvements
Horizon Zero Dawn Remastered brings a host of new features and improvements to optimize the gaming experience for modern hardware:
- 4K Ultra HD resolution with HDR support.
- Enhanced texture details for characters, creatures, and landscapes.
- Improved loading times leveraging SSD technology.
- Ray tracing support for realistic lighting and reflections.
- DualSense controller haptic feedback and adaptive trigger functionality for PlayStation 5.
Graphical Enhancements
One of the primary highlights of Horizon Zero Dawn Remastered is the significant graphical upgrade, which adds a new level of realism and immersion. Below is a table summarizing the graphical improvements:
| Feature | Original Version | Remastered Version |
|---|---|---|
| Resolution | Up to 1080p (PS4) | 4K Ultra HD with HDR (PS5 & PC) |
| Texture Details | Medium to High | Ultra High |
| Lighting | Static lighting | Dynamic with Ray Tracing |
| Frame Rate | 30 FPS (PS4) | Up to 60 FPS (PS5 & PC) |
| Shadow Quality | Limited | Enhanced Shadows and Ambient Occlusion |
These graphical improvements not only make the game visually stunning but also enhance the immersion and realism of the game world, from the dense forests to the towering robotic creatures that roam the land.
New Gameplay Features and Mechanics
Horizon Zero Dawn Remastered retains the core gameplay but introduces several new features and mechanics to enrich the experience:
- Enhanced AI for both human and robotic enemies, making combat more challenging and dynamic.
- Expanded Skill Trees with new abilities and upgrades to improve Aloy’s combat, stealth, and exploration skills.
- Improved Stealth Mechanics including advanced foliage interactions for hiding and better enemy detection algorithms.
- Updated Controls to support the DualSense controller on PS5, with immersive haptic feedback.
These additions add layers of depth to combat and exploration, making the game feel fresh for returning players and newcomers alike.
Exclusive Content for PS5 and PC
The remastered edition includes exclusive content tailored specifically for PS5 and PC platforms:
- Photo Mode with more editing tools, filters, and poses.
- Challenge Mode: New, time-based challenges that test combat skills against formidable machines.
- Exclusive Outfits and Weapons: PS5 players gain access to unique armor and weapon sets, while PC players have exclusive visual customization options.
This exclusive content offers players additional reasons to dive back into Aloy’s world and face new challenges with enhanced gear.
Pre-Order Details and Editions
Horizon Zero Dawn Remastered is available in multiple editions, each offering unique content and bonuses for players.
| Edition | Price | Inclusions |
|---|---|---|
| Standard Edition | $59.99 | Base Game |
| Deluxe Edition | $79.99 | Base Game + Soundtrack + Exclusive Outfits & Weapons |
| Collector’s Edition | $129.99 | Base Game + Artbook + Figurine + Digital Soundtrack + Deluxe Items |
Pre-order Bonuses
- Exclusive Theme for PS5 players.
- Digital Art Book for PC players who pre-order.
System Requirements for PC
To fully experience the graphical improvements and performance upgrades on PC, players will need a capable setup. Below are the minimum and recommended system requirements.
| Specification | Minimum | Recommended |
|---|---|---|
| OS | Windows 10 64-bit | Windows 11 64-bit |
| Processor | Intel i5-2500K / AMD Ryzen 5 | Intel i7-9700K / AMD Ryzen 7 |
| RAM | 8 GB | 16 GB |
| GPU | GTX 970 / RX 470 | RTX 3070 / RX 6800 XT |
| Storage | 100 GB HDD | 100 GB SSD |
Comparison Between Original and Remastered Versions
A quick comparison between the original Horizon Zero Dawn and the remastered version highlights the key differences:
| Feature | Original | Remastered |
|---|---|---|
| Resolution | 1080p | 4K UHD |
| Frame Rate | 30 FPS | 60 FPS |
| Loading Times | Longer | Optimized for SSDs |
| Graphics | Standard | Enhanced textures, ray tracing |
| AI Behavior | Basic | Advanced enemy intelligence |
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I upgrade to the Remastered version if I own the original game?
Yes, players who own the original Horizon Zero Dawn on PlayStation 4 can upgrade to the remastered version at a discounted price.
Q2: Will there be any new story content in the Remastered version?
Horizon Zero Dawn Remastered focuses on graphical and gameplay improvements; however, no additional story content has been announced.
Q3: Is Horizon Zero Dawn Remastered part of the PlayStation Plus Collection?
No, the remastered edition is a separate release and is not currently included in the PlayStation Plus Collection.
Q4: Will there be a photo mode?
Yes, the remastered edition features an enhanced photo mode with additional filters, poses, and editing options.
Conclusion
Horizon Zero Dawn Remastered promises to be a visual and gameplay masterpiece that leverages modern technology to deliver a refreshed experience of a beloved title. Whether you are a long-time fan or a newcomer, tomorrow’s release on October 31, 2024, offers a fantastic opportunity to explore Aloy’s world with new perspectives and immersive upgrades. Don’t miss out on reliving this epic journey with the new and improved Horizon Zero Dawn Remastered!
