Horizon Hunters Gathering: A New Co‑Op Route for the Horizon World
Guerrilla Games has unveiled the next chapter in the Horizon saga: Hunters Gathering. This title shifts away from pure single-player play, teaming up three players for action on PlayStation 5 and PC. The studio says single-player adventures still define the series, but this game pushes the multiplayer angle with a bold art style and new ways to team up and plan.
Co‑Op Play That Feels Fresh
Hunters Gathering centers on a trio of players who work as a squad. Each Hunter brings their own magic-like skills to the fight, creating a class-based system that rewards cooperation. The goal is to hunt machines with care, finding the best way to strike at their weak points together. The new game leans toward live-service ideas, with ongoing updates shaping how teams play over time.
Two Distinct Modes to Start
At launch, players will see two core modes that shape how teams move through the game.
– Machine Incursion: This mode moves fast. The map tightens as you play, loot pops up along the way, and a big boss waits at the end to test the squad.
– Cauldron Descent: A dungeon-like run with several stages. Rooms change as you progress, adding variety to each run.
These modes aim to balance brisk action with moments of careful planning, pushing players to swap tactics on the fly.
World Sketch and Monster Hunts
The game stays in the familiar Horizon universe, following a new crew of Hunters. They are sent by Erend to chase a surge of aggressive machines spreading across the American landscape. Think Monster Hunter‑style team play, where teams must coordinate to exploit each machine’s weaknesses. The twist comes from the Hunters’ class-based abilities, which feel more like magical powers than typical gear, adding a strategic layer to every encounter.
Live Service Ambitions and Ongoing Playtests
Hunters Gathering is built as a live-service title, meant to keep players coming back. After launch, expect a steady stream of new Hunters, more machine types, and fresh story updates. While a firm launch date hasn’t been set, Guerrilla has scheduled a closed playtest for late February 2026. Players can sign up through the PlayStation Beta Program to try out mechanics early and share feedback.
Platform Focus and Project Landscape
The game targets both PlayStation 5 and PC, broadening who can join the hunt. This project sits apart from the rumored Horizon Steel Frontiers, which some outlets have linked to NCSoft. For now, Hunters Gathering stands as Guerrilla’s foray into a lasting co‑op experience within the Horizon family.
What This Means for Fans of the Horizon Series
The move adds a fresh lane for the franchise without discarding what fans love about solo adventures. The three-player co‑op setup invites players to team up and trade roles during tense hunts. It also signals a push toward ongoing content and evolving story beats, something the series can use to stay lively for years.
What to Look For Next
With a closed test即 and ongoing post‑launch plans, players should expect gradual reveals on new Hunters, additional machines, and more story threads after release. The setup hints at cross‑play possibilities and seasonal updates that keep teams coming back to try new roles and map layouts. Even without a date yet, the plan shows Guerrilla is serious about building a long-term multiplayer home for Horizon fans.
Why This Could Change How People Play Horizon
By mixing a bold art style with cooperative strategy, Hunters Gathering stands to broaden the Horizon audience. Veteran players may enjoy testing new classes and tactics, while newcomers can jump in with a friend group and learn the ropes together. The live-service angle makes ongoing support a real promise, not just a one-off adventure.
What We’ll Be Watching For
Keep an eye out for updates on the closed playtest window, details about the two modes, and note of any extra feature drops following launch. How the class system evolves and how new machines are introduced will be key signs of the game’s staying power. The reception to cross‑play and cross‑progression, if offered, could shape future Guerrilla projects in the Horizon lineup.
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