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Key differences between horizon forbidden west versions

Horizon Forbidden West | Pricing Confusion Sparks Debate

By

James Wright

Aug 1, 2025, 03:29 AM

2 minutes of duration

Comparison of Horizon Forbidden West game versions on PS Store, showcasing graphics and features of the PS4 and PS5 versions.

A rising discussion among gamers explores the differences between two versions of Horizon Forbidden West on the PS Store, leading to varying opinions and some confusion. Users are eager to find out if the cheaper version of the game is truly equivalent to the pricier PS5 edition.

What's the Issue?

Many are trying to determine whether the less expensive PS4 version includes perks that would make it more appealing. Some community members assert that the PS4 version offers a free upgrade to the PS5 version, despite earlier claims that upgrades would come with a fee.

Key Takeaways from Discussions

  • People are clear on the pricing differences: the standard PS5 edition costs more than the PS4 version. The PS4 version allows users to upgrade for free, a shift influenced by early backlash about upgrade fees.

    "It originally wasnโ€™t supposed to be a free upgrade PlayStation got a lot of criticism over it and decided to get rid of that for Horizon Forbidden West by giving the upgrade for free."

  • Many users reported positive experiences after choosing the cheaper option. One participant revealed, "Thanks everybody. I purchased the cheaper version and it did indeed allow me to get the PS5 version for free afterwards," highlighting satisfaction with their decision.

  • Confusion arises around editions; users noted that the Complete Edition contains the DLC, which is exclusive to PS5. Without upgrading, they still need to purchase this DLC separately.

Community Sentiment

Sentiment in the community appears largely positive about the upgrade feature. Many are relieved to learn about the free PS5 upgrade option, even as some acknowledge the mix-up regarding the editions. One user mentioned, "Iโ€™m confused about this as well. I would just go with the cheaper one and be done with it."

Finale

With the launch of Horizon Forbidden West still fresh in the minds of gamers, this pricing debate has sparked a deeper conversation about transparency and upgrade practices in gaming. Will this influence future PS Store policies? Only time will tell.

- For more updates on gaming news, visit PlayStation Blog or check out forums on gaming discussions.

Looking Towards Tomorrow

As gamers continue to weigh their options for Horizon Forbidden West, thereโ€™s a significant likelihood that more developers will adopt transparent upgrade policies in response to consumer feedback. Analysts estimate around a 70% chance that future games will follow suit, offering clear communication on upgrade paths. This shift could encourage players to invest in both PS4 and PS5 versions, knowing they wonโ€™t face unexpected fees. Itโ€™s crucial for gaming companies to prioritize transparency in their pricing models to maintain trust and avoid backlash, especially in this digitally-driven era.

A Historical Lens

In a way, this debate mirrors the controversies surrounding DVD and Blu-ray formats during their initial releases. When the transition from DVD to Blu-ray occurred, many consumers were uncertain about which format to choose, and that confusion led to backlash against studios. Just as gamers now scrutinize upgrade policies, DVD buyers debated the merits of buying new equipment versus sticking with older formats. In retrospect, the eventual standardization of Blu-ray solidified consumers' trust, and todayโ€™s gaming scenario reflects that very tensionโ€”where clear communication could shape industry practices for years to come.