The Horizon franchise is taking an exciting new direction with the upcoming release of Horizon Steel Frontiers, a full-scale MMORPG developed by NCSoft. Set in the mysterious Deadlands–an expansive environment influenced by real-world regions such as Arizona and Mexico–this game promises a thrilling blend of exploration, tribal communities, and massive mechanical adversaries.
In Horizon Steel Frontiers, players will step into the shoes of a customizable character rather than series protagonist Aloy, allowing for a more personalized gaming experience. Players can venture through the world solo or team up with friends to hunt down formidable machines and gather crucial resources. This multiplayer aspect is sure to attract both die-hard fans of the franchise and notorious MMO players alike.
As for its release, Horizon Steel Frontiers is anticipated to launch on iOS, Android, and PC, featuring cross-platform play across all devices. Although an official release date has yet to be disclosed, early gameplay footage suggests that the game may still be a couple of years away from hitting the market.
While development timelines for MMOs can often be extensive–NCSoft’s own Throne and Liberty took over a decade–the backing of PlayStation could accelerate the process for Steel Frontiers. This collaboration may play a pivotal role in bringing the project to fruition sooner than expected.
Players can look forward to an array of character customization options, enabling them to tailor their characters to their liking. The game draws inspiration not only from its own lore but also from popular franchises like Capcom’s Monster Hunter, offering a vibrant hub area where players can engage with tribe members, enjoy meals that boost stats and accept quests from a designated board.
Gameplay promises to be dynamic, with combat mechanics integrating seamlessly with movement. For instance, players can climb over fallen enemies using the Pullcaster and set traps on weak points to maximize damage and inflict various status effects. The development team’s focus on crafting a combat experience tailored to MMORPG enthusiasts is evident, with strategy and teamwork being essential for taking down colossal machines.
As players navigate the vast landscapes of Horizon Steel Frontiers, they will encounter up to 1,000 other players, creating a lively atmosphere for collaboration or competition against rival tribes. While details about crafting, trading, and PvP elements remain scarce, further announcements are expected in the near future, heightening anticipation for this new addition to the Horizon universe.
