Horizon on PS5: Navigating the Post-Apocalyptic Frontier in 2026
PARIS, 06 February 2026 – Since the launch of the PlayStation 5, the Horizon franchise has established itself as a technical benchmark for Sony’s hardware. Developed by Guerrilla Games, the series continues to captivate players with its unique blend of prehistoric aesthetics and advanced robotics, set against the backdrop of a vibrant, reclaimed Earth.
The Evolution of Aloy’s Journey
The franchise’s presence on the PS5 began in earnest with Horizon Forbidden West. Released in February 2022, the title showcased the console’s ability to handle dense vegetation, complex water physics, and near-instantaneous loading times via the SSD. Following the success of the base game, the Burning Shores expansion arrived as a PS5-exclusive, pushing the Decima engine further by introducing massive aerial combat and highly detailed volcanic environments that were not possible on previous-generation hardware.
In addition to the mainline RPGs, the series expanded into virtual reality with Horizon Call of the Mountain. This title served as a flagship release for the PlayStation VR2, offering a first-person perspective on the scale of the “Machines” that roam the world. By February 2026, the franchise has solidified its position as a multi-media pillar for Sony, including various remastered efforts to bring the original 2017 experience up to modern visual standards.
Key Titles and Technical Specifications
| Title | PS5 Features |
|---|---|
| Horizon Forbidden West | 4K Resolution, 60 FPS Performance Mode, DualSense Haptic Feedback. |
| Burning Shores (DLC) | PS5 Exclusive; enhanced cloud rendering and massive scale boss fights. |
| Horizon Call of the Mountain | PSVR2 Exclusive; 4K HDR, Eye-tracking, and Finger Touch Detection. |
| Horizon Zero Dawn Remastered | Improved character models and lighting to match sequel quality. |
The Future of the Franchise
As of early 2026, fans remain expectant regarding the third mainline instalment. While Guerrilla Games has confirmed that Aloy’s story is intended to be a trilogy, official details regarding the setting of the next chapter remain under wraps. Industry analysts suggest that any future release will likely continue to leverage the PS5 Pro hardware capabilities, focusing on advanced Ray Tracing and AI-driven upscaling to maintain the series’ reputation for visual excellence.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Horizon Forbidden West available on PS4?
Yes, the base game was released for both PS4 and PS5. However, the Burning Shores expansion is strictly exclusive to the PS5 version to accommodate its higher technical requirements.
Do I need a VR headset to play Horizon Call of the Mountain?
Yes, Call of the Mountain is built specifically for the PlayStation VR2 system and cannot be played on a standard television without the headset.
What is the currency used in the Horizon games?
The primary currency used for trading with merchants in the game world is “Metal Shards,” which are harvested from defeated machines.