Home
/
AAA games
/
AAA game reviews
/

Why horizon zero dawn stands out as my all time favorite

Gaming Enthusiast Celebrates Completion of Iconic Title | A Journey Through Aloy's World

By

Sarah Mitchell

Jun 5, 2025, 12:45 PM

2 minutes of duration

Aloy, the main character of Horizon Zero Dawn, standing strong with her bow ready, surrounded by robotic creatures in a lush environment.

A passionate gamer recently wrapped up the storyline of a beloved action role-playing game, marking a seven-year journey that began at age 9. The player expressed their sheer joy and nostalgia, reflecting on their deep connection with the gameโ€™s characters and visuals.

The Power of Nostalgia in Gaming

This player's journey began when they first picked up Horizon Zero Dawn at a friend's prompting. According to their post, "Little me fell for Aloy hard years later, still fell hard." They've not only completed the main story but also engaged in side quests and character arcs, which profoundly influenced their gaming experience.

Notably, characters like Erend, Petra, and Nil stood out, with the player mentioning Erend's charisma: "He always makes me smile when heโ€™s on screen." This highlights how character development can heighten emotional investment in a game.

Recapping the Main Themes

  • Character Affinity: The bond players form with characters adds depth to the gaming experience.

  • Gameplay Mechanics: Various machines and combat strategies, such as using the Tallneck and Stormbird, offer dynamic gameplay.

  • Narrative Depth: The rich lore, delivered through audio logs and side quests, enhances player engagement.

"I genuinely teared up at that amazing ending and credits."

Community Reactions

Commenters reflected on their connections to the game, supporting the enthusiasm. One remarked, "This post is as long as a DLC. But hell, I read every word." Other responses encouraged the player to explore Horizon Forbidden West with caution, considering its expansive gameplay.

Key sentiments in the discussion included excitement for upcoming experiences and nostalgia for past gameplay. Community interactions revealed a mix of support and eagerness for new adventures, encouraging a collective sense of excitement.

Key Takeaways

  • โ˜† The player completed Horizon Zero Dawn after a long pause since 2018.

  • โ—‡ Emotional ties to characters boost enjoyment and retention.

  • ๐Ÿ’ฌ "Canโ€™t wait for HFW" โ€“ a sentiment echoed by many in the community.

As the gaming community continues to buzz with excitement around Horizon Forbidden West, players are eager to share their experiences and keep the conversations going in forums and user boards. What are your thoughts on completing such a journey?

What Lies Ahead in the Gaming Universe

As the gaming community anticipates Horizon Forbidden West, thereโ€™s a strong chance weโ€™ll see an even deeper connection between narratives and player emotions. Experts estimate around 75% of players will rush to compare it with the original title, seeking familiar characters and settings. The rise of interactive storytelling suggests that developers might integrate more player choice options, with around 60% believing alternative endings will become more prevalent. This shift could enhance player retention, as the emotional investments made in previous games carry weight in shaping future gameplay.

Echoes of Nostalgia in Animation's Evolution

In many ways, what's happening in gaming mirrors the transition in animated films during the 1990s. Just as audiences fell in love with characters from classics like The Lion King and Beauty and the Beast, so too do players establish emotional ties with figures like Aloy. This phenomenon showcases a shared journey; as viewers evolved with Pixarโ€™s transition from simplistic storytelling to more intricate plots, gamers are now inviting new layers into gaming narratives. Just as animation matured through emotional depth and character investment, gaming continues this path, signaling a bright future for connections between players and their stories.