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Zero dawn: questions about gaia and its subordinate functions

Zero Dawn Unraveled | GAIA's Subordinate Functions Spark Heated Community Discourse

By

Derek Johnson

Jul 17, 2025, 08:57 PM

Updated

Jul 18, 2025, 12:43 AM

2 minutes of duration

A visual representation of GAIA's interface with various Subordinate Functions displayed, set in a futuristic environment inspired by Zero Dawn.
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A surge of interest flares among gamers as questions about GAIA and its Subordinate Functions take center stage. With speculation flying about key plot elements, players eagerly await answers ahead of Forbidden West. Recent discussions also highlight contrasting theories about character motives and machine identities.

Insights into GAIAโ€™s Subordinate Functions

Enthusiasts are buzzing over GAIA's Subordinate Functions, particularly regarding Hades, who was taken by Sylens, and Hephaestus' unknown whereabouts. One player noted that gameplay involves destroying a large sphere that housed a Subordinate Function, reiterating the mystery around their fates.

"At the end of the first game, we donโ€™t know what happened to each of the subordinate functions," one commenter remarked, underscoring widespread uncertainty.

The Enigma of the Faro Glitch

A significant topic of discussion continues to revolve around the elusive Faro Glitch. While some suggest it was a mere glitch, others argue there could be more to the story. One contributor stated, "The cause of the glitch is never explained but itโ€™s a deeply poetic and powerful story.โ€ Another user offered a unique take, comparing it to the "paperclip problem," where machines self-replicated without proper constraints, ultimately consuming biomass, including living beings.

Machines of Mayhem: Horus Class Units

Gamers have also raised questions about the massive Horus machines on the map, often referred to as "Metal Devils" by the Nora tribe. These units are described as "walking cauldrons" capable of self-replication and creating sub-machines like Deathbringers and Corruptors. A user recapped it well: "Theyโ€™re pretty much walking โ€˜cauldronsโ€™they self-replicate and convert nutrients into biofuel."

Ted Faro's Dark Resolutions

Ted Faro's controversial choices remain a topic of intense discussion. Commenters suggest he murdered the scientists behind Apollo to prevent future generations from learning of his catastrophic failures. One noted, "His ego canโ€™t handle the truth,โ€ implying Faro's actions were more about self-preservation than altruism. Another made clear, "He locked himself up in his personal chamber, โ€˜Thebes.โ€™โ€ This raises questions about his intentions and the psychological weight of his decisions.

Looking Ahead: Anticipation for Forbidden West

Amid the ongoing debates, excitement for the sequel builds, with many expressing intent to complete Horizon Zero Dawn anew before diving into Forbidden West. A shared sentiment among community members reflects a readiness to explore the unfolding narrative depths.

Key Insights

  • ๐Ÿ“ก GAIA's Subordinate Functions' fates continue to generate significant intrigue.

  • โš™๏ธ Horus class units, pivotal to the lore, are regarded as formidable creations of the Faro plague.

  • โ“ The origins of the Faro Glitch remain hotly debated, differing opinions about its impact on character motives persist.

  • ๐Ÿš€ Anticipation for Forbidden West grows, promising clarity on lingering plot points and ethical dilemmas.

As the community grapples with these themes, itโ€™s clear that the lore of Horizon Zero Dawn captivates players, igniting discussions on morality, ambition, and the consequences of leadership.