Horizon Zero Dawn: The Frozen Wilds – Review (PS4)
Explore a new map and uncover the mystery of the Daemon.
Note: This review was written after completion of all tasks and trophies associated with The Frozen Wilds DLC. The Frozen Wilds was released for PS4 on November 17, 2017.
********************************************************
Horizon: Zero Dawn was originally written about on Handsome Phantom here.
The Frozen Wilds is the first, and likely only, DLC expansion for Horizon: Zero Dawn, originally released back in February. The expansion introduces Aloy, the heroine, to a new region some may recognize as what remains of Yellowstone National Park in the future. The expansion can be accessed during a regular playthrough of the game and does not provide any content after the completion of the main storyline. It does have some small tie-ins, but other than that, it stands on its own. Let’s see what else is new.
New Machines
New enemies await Aloy in the north, including the terrifying Frost Claw (seen above). In addition, a new class of machine is added to increase the difficulty of familiar enemies. In the main storyline, machines that have been corrupted are stronger than their normal counterparts. Similarly, in the Frozen Wilds, Daemonic versions of original-game machines have also been corrupted by some type of virus and, as a result, provide new challenges in combat.
New Characters
One of H:ZD’s many strong points was its well-rounded and dynamic characters. The Frozen Wilds (TFW) is no different as Aloy encounters new and interesting characters, many of whom belong to the Banuk tribe, which was a tribe that was mostly referenced and rarely encountered in the main game. The most notable new characters are Ourea and Aratak, two strong-willed and clashing members of a Banuk tribe that are enmeshed in the plot.
New Weapons and Gear
TFW also adds new, stronger versions of original weapon types and outfits. In addition, there are three new weapons that deal powerful elemental damage and that can be upgraded through side quests involving yet another of H:ZD’s colorful characters, an Oseram named Varga. The new weapons add more ways to bring down powerful foes. TFW also features a new hunting grounds to test the player in some difficult feats of skill.
New Region and Story
As mentioned above, TFW takes place in what’s left of Yellowstone (and you can even see some geysers!) Upon entering the new area, one of the first sights visible is a large, dark plume of smoke rising from a mountain. As Aloy encounters new characters and enemies, she begins to investigate the mysterious mountain, the Daemon that is said to live there, and the daemonic machines that have begun to prowl the wilderness.
Final Words
Horizon: The Frozen Wilds DLC is everything a DLC expansion should be. It boasts new story, new weapon, new enemies, new characters, and more, and adds to the existing world of Horizon in a meaningful and impactful way. Any fan of H:ZD should absolutely check it out.
