Guerrilla has officially unveiled Horizon Hunters Gathering, a cooperative action game set in the Horizon universe. The title is developed for PlayStation 5 and PC and focuses on tactical, three-player co-op gameplay where squads of Hunters face off against dangerous machines. The game builds on Guerrilla’s experience with multiplayer in Killzone and the combat systems of Horizon Zero Dawn, bringing team-based hunting into the Horizon world for the first time.
Co-Op Gameplay and Tactical Combat
Horizon Hunters Gathering is designed around team coordination and reactive combat. Players can form teams of up to three Hunters, each with unique weapons and playstyles, to take on increasingly challenging machine encounters. Combat emphasizes timing, positioning, and strategy, encouraging players to adapt their approach to the specific threats they face. The game also supports cross-play between PS5 and PC and cross-progression when players use the same PlayStation account, allowing progression to carry across platforms.
Mission Structures and Replayable Challenges
The game introduces two primary mission types: Machine Incursion and Cauldron Descent. Machine Incursion places players against waves of machines emerging from underground gateways, culminating in a boss encounter. Cauldron Descent is a multi-stage challenge with ever-changing rooms and optional rewards hidden behind secret doors, pushing teams to experiment and adapt to succeed. Both modes are designed for replayability, with dynamic encounters that test teamwork and strategic planning.
Hunters, Builds, and Rogue-Lite Elements
Players select from a roster of Hunters, each with distinct melee or ranged abilities and specialized weapons. Beyond individual skill sets, Hunters are assigned roles integrated with a rogue-lite perk system, allowing players to customize their builds for specific combat strategies and team composition. This system encourages experimentation and flexibility, letting squads develop synergies between characters and adapt to different encounters. The progression system is intended to evolve over time, giving players meaningful choices in how they approach both missions and team strategy.
A Canon Story in the Horizon Universe
Guerrilla confirmed that Horizon Hunters Gathering is fully canon within the Horizon timeline. While story details remain under wraps, the game will introduce new characters, mysteries, and machine threats. Players will explore a variety of environments, each with its own challenges and atmosphere, as part of the missions. The narrative is designed to continue beyond launch, positioning the game as an ongoing addition to the Horizon franchise rather than a one-off spin-off.
The Social Hub and Player Preparation
Between missions, players return to Hunters Gathering, a central hub where they can prepare for upcoming hunts. The hub allows players to customize their Hunters, upgrade equipment, interact with vendors, and coordinate with other players. This space is intended to strengthen the cooperative aspect of the game while providing a structured environment for progression and planning.
Closed Playtest and Community Involvement
Guerrilla will launch a closed playtest for PS5 and PC through the PlayStation Beta Program. The first round of testing is scheduled for the end of February, providing players with early access to gameplay mechanics and mission modes. Player feedback will be used to refine combat, progression, and mission balance. To engage the community further, Guerrilla has opened a dedicated Horizon Hunters Gathering Discord, where fans can discuss updates, share feedback, and track development progress.
Conclusion
Horizon Hunters Gathering represents Guerrilla’s first co-op Horizon experience, combining tactical combat, team-based progression, and structured missions in a fully canon setting. The game’s cross-platform support, rogue-lite systems, and social hub aim to create a cooperative experience that encourages experimentation and coordination. As playtests begin and development continues, Guerrilla is positioning Horizon Hunters Gathering as a new way for players to explore the Horizon universe together.
Make sure to check out our articles about top games to play in 2026:
Best Nintendo Switch Games for 2026
Best First-Person Shooters for 2026
Best PlayStation Indie Games for 2026
Best Multiplayer Games for 2026
Most Anticipated Games of 2026
Top Game Releases for January 2026
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What platforms will Horizon Hunters Gathering be available on?
The game is being developed for PlayStation 5 and PC, with cross-play support between the two platforms.
How many players can join a session?
Horizon Hunters Gathering supports up to three players per team.
Is the game part of the Horizon canon?
Yes, the events and characters in Horizon Hunters Gathering are fully canon within the Horizon universe.
What types of missions are in the game?
The game currently features two mission types: Machine Incursion, which involves waves of machines and a boss fight, and Cauldron Descent, a multi-stage trial with dynamic rooms and hidden rewards.
Can players carry progress across platforms?
Yes, cross-progression is supported when using the same PlayStation account on both PS5 and PC.
Will there be opportunities to play early?
A closed playtest will be available through the PlayStation Beta Program, with players able to provide feedback on gameplay and mission balance.
What customization options are available for Hunters?
Players can choose from a roster of Hunters with unique abilities, assign roles, and use a rogue-lite perk system to craft builds that fit their playstyle and team strategy.
Is there a social component in the game?
Yes, the central hub, Hunters Gathering, allows players to customize characters, upgrade gear, interact with vendors, and prepare for cooperative missions.
