Horizon Forbidden West‘s huge landscapes are full of compelling stories off the main path. These optional side quests enrich the world and characters when you take time to experience them. Here are some standouts really worth finding:
10. The Twilight Path’s Moral Quandaries
In “The Twilight Path,” help a Carja group confront outsiders trying to steal artifacts from their cliffside camp. Guiding them safely rewards insight into this fringe tribe through talks and objects. And defusing the threat peacefully shows Aloy’s compassion.
9. The Promontory’s Surprising Tribal Intrigue
“The Promontory” brings political intrigue exposing tensions within the Utaru tribe over future direction. It challenges assumptions by revealing a shocking killer and motive. Though offering no reward, its twists craft a memorable moral story.
8. Somber Homecoming in The Way Home
In “The Way Home” quest, help Quen navigators craft equipment to return to loved ones by salvaging a haunting drowned fleet. Finding the elite Skykiller Spike Thrower within makes this favor doubly rewarding. A standout for its somber, thoughtful mood.
7. Riverside Sleuthing in The Blood Choke
Investigating poisoning of vital rivers in “The Blood Choke” reveals disturbing truths about villain Regalla’s monstrous methods. This strengthens motivations moving forward. Bonus combat with a formidable Fireclaw and getting the awesome Tenakth Reaver outfit make this quest even more worthwhile.
6. Home From Above in Lofty Ambitions
For lighthearted fun, “Lofty Ambitions” sends Aloy through an amusement park, hot air balloon joyride and battle with a Stormbird to help an eccentric inventor. Its colorful setting provides a nice change from doom and gloom.
5. Gildun Is Back in A Friend in the Dark
Along with a new main storyline, the Burning Shores DLC also brings some new side quests to Horizon Forbidden West. One of these is called “A Friend in the Dark” and sees Aloy reuniting with an old buddy from the Frozen Wilds, Gildun who asks for help rescuing his exploring partner Olvar trapped down below.
4. Restoring Land-Gods in The Second Verse
The lyrical two-part “The Second Verse” has Aloy on a mystical quest restoring ancient gods. Its enchanting locations and harmonious soundtrack create a magical atmosphere unlike other missions.
3. Diviner’s Passions in Forbidden Legacy
In “Forbidden Legacy,” diviner Alva seeks dangerous Old World tech to help her homeland. Her infectious passion for discovery, tricky climbing challenges and glimpses into her past make this buddy adventure a delight.
2. Kotallo’s Ambitions in What Was Lost
“What Was Lost” follows Kotallo’s inspiring journey to build a prosthetic arm, but his emotional arc realizing inner strength trumps physical “wholeness” proves truly profound. Horizon’s inclusive spirit shines through.
1. Reuniting with Talanah in The Burning Blooms
Aside from its fun team-up with fan-favorite Talanah, “The Burning Blooms” also provides insight into traditions of the Hunters Lodge. Optional fights shouldn’t overshadow meaningful world-building.
Horizon Forbidden West is now accessible on PS4 and PS5.
About The Author
I'm a passionate content writer dedicated to the world of video games.
My heart beats to the rhythm of the virtual landscapes, and my true gaming obsessions are "Horizon Franchise", Zero Dawn and Forbidden West, and "The Last of Us Series". You can always find me exploring the breathtaking horizons of Ellie's and Aloy's adventures.