horizon forbidden west burning shores test

Seyka proves a valuable companion not only in combat, but also by easing the plot burden from Aloy – crucially giving her someone to talk with and, mercifully, less time telling you about what she's putting in her stash.

The advancement of her character arc comes primarily thanks to the introduction of Seyka – someone similarly insular to Aloy – and the duo helps each other unlock themselves. However, it never forgets to focus on the humanity of the situation, further fleshing out Aloy as an endearing and relatable character. This is a fun adventure that ends with a clumsy thud both mechanically and in the story, which does fall foul of some of Horizon's sci-fi trappings. A stuttering sin when compared to Horizon’s trademark fluid combat, it's a disappointing finale that feels at odds with most of Burning Shores' runtime.

Then there's the huge-scale final encounter, where the clunky action just can't match the spectacle as you're bounced around the arena like a ragdoll while trying to find damage-dealing windows. An arrow-sponge boss battle midway through its five-hour story is a particular annoyance, for example.

The majority of the fights are a thrill, which makes it a deflating anticlimax when, in its big moments, Burning Shores falls a bit flat.

Horizon forbidden west burning shores test