Just when we thought the Horizon universe couldn’t get any bigger, Guerrilla Games has pulled back the curtain on a project that changes the formula entirely. Say goodbye to the solitary journey of a Seeker and hello to the squad: Horizon Hunters Gathering has been officially announced for PS5 and PC.
If you’ve ever looked at a Thunderjaw and thought, “I wish I had two friends and a specialized build to take that thing down,” this is the game you’ve been waiting for.
Robot Monster Hunter, anyone?
No Horizon 3?
Before anyone panics, Guerrilla was quick to confirm that they are still very much in the business of making massive single-player epics.
However, Horizon Hunters Gathering is their “longstanding dream” to bring tactical, team-based combat to the world of the Faro Plague.
The game features a distinct, vibrant art style that leans a bit more “hero-shooter” than “photorealism“. Don’t let the look fool you, the developers are promising a “punishingly skill-based” experience.
It definitely looks a little more on the Fortnite side of things in how it’s presented. Presumably a push to get more people playing online and engaged with the world?
Gameplay
The core loop centres around three-player tactical hunts in Horizon Hunters Gathering.
You’ll choose from a roster of unique Hunters. Not generic avatars, but characters with their own backstories and roles (think snipers, tanks, and stealth experts).
Here’s what we know about the modes so far:
Machine Incursion: A high-intensity mode where you defend against waves of machines pouring out of underground gateways, culminating in a massive boss fight.
Cauldron Descent: A multi-stage, “ever-changing” dungeon crawl. This mode features a roguelite perk system. Build out your character with randomized power-ups as you dive deeper into the mechanical vaults.
It’s Canon
For the lore hounds out there, this isn’t just a “non-canon” spin-off like LEGO Horizon Adventures.
Horizon Hunters Gathering is fully canon. Featuring a narrative campaign that introduces new mysteries and threats to the Horizon timeline.
Whilst Aloy makes a cameo in the trailer, the story shifts the spotlight to these new Hunter heroes and their personal struggles.
Playtests are Coming Fast
You won’t have to wait long to get your hands on it. Guerrilla is launching a closed playtest at the end of February 2026.
If you want a chance to test the “Machine Incursion” or “Cauldron Descent” modes on PS5 or PC, you can sign up now through the PlayStation Beta Program.
Horizon Hunters Gathering
It’s a bold swing for Sony.
Following the mixed reception of recent live-service efforts, Horizon Hunters Gathering feels like a more focused “Monster Hunter-lite” approach. Leveraging one of PlayStation’s strongest IPs.
Whether the stylized art and co-op focus will win over the hardcore single-player fanbase remains to be seen. But the promise of tactical machine hunting with friends is hard to ignore.
I think pricing is going to be a significant factor in this one. Being on PlayStation means at least needing a PlayStation Plus membership to play online. And I don’t think Sony have the stones to go free-to-play.
Unless the game has the depth and scale to justify a premium price, it’s going to be a tricky one to land.