Horizon’s side characters haven’t always been super engaging, but a few standouts deserve more focus. As threats rise, these 10 people could really strengthen Aloy’s team in the sequel:
10. Teersa: A Beacon of Hope in the Nora Tribe
Though sharing the Nora’s blind faith, elder Teersa showed Aloy kindness when few would. With Zero Dawn’s truth now known, her response could drive interesting growth. Teersa represents hope for tribes evolving.
9. Avad: The Trusted Ally
King Avad attracted fans by rejecting hostility toward Aloy. Avad also intrigued via his subtle romantic interest, which she brushed off. But those sparks could ignite in better times. Avad’s blend of kindness and mystery offers great friendship.
8. Elisabet Sobeck: Protagonist’s Biological Mother
Fans long to play as Dr. Sobeck herself in flashbacks seeing the “old world.” picturing her talks with her daughter using futuristic tech is incredibly exciting. As Horizon’s creator, experiencing Sobeck’s huge challenges firsthand would be a dream.
7. Beta: From Weapon to Hero
Though used, Zenith defector Beta proved her strength helping Aloy’s fight. Now adapting to life on Earth, foiling Nemesis with her insider knowledge would complete Beta’s cathartic change from weapon to hero. This complex teen deserves more attention.
6. Hekarro: The Key to Military Power
As leader of the fierce Tenakth, authoritative Hekarro offers vital military power against coming threats. His fearsome yet honourable nature could forge intriguing new dynamics with the main character.
5. Erend: The Real Loyalty
Constant friend Erend’s loyalty shone supporting her twice now. As her most stalwart buddy, their bond deserves more than sidekick status. Giving Erend’s history and personality more depth would please his fans.
4. Kotallo: A Potential Uniter of Tribes
Tenakth warrior Kotallo grew to respect Aloy’s quest. With his people endangered again, he could be pivotal in uniting the tribes against Nemesis. Kotallo represents hope for overcoming differences.
3. Varl: The Closest Non-Nora Friend
Losing Varl, her closest non-Nora friend, brought deep sadness. While gone, reminiscing about raising this trusting, caring soul could uplift Aloy amid inner turmoil. Varl embodied hope through compassion – honoring that matters.
2. Sylens: In Memory of a Great Actor
Mysterious Sylens remains Horizon’s wild card. As an uneasy ally with unclear motivations, exploring his past could reveal surprising depth. While the dynamic character of Sylens wouldn’t have hit the hearts of players without the voice talents of the late Lance Reddick, who passed away in March 2023, his return in Horizon 3, even briefly, could be truly surprising.
1. Rost: The Heroine’s Sole Parent
Rost shaped her whole childhood before his abrupt loss. Either bringing him back imaginatively or showing more flashbacks could provide major closure. Deep down, Aloy remains the girl Rost raised, however dutiful she’s become.
By elevating these fascinating people beyond minor roles, Horizon’s next chapter could thrive on character richness. At its heart, this is a personal journey fueled by relationships. Our protagonist needn’t walk alone when bonds this compelling await. The deepest human connections drive heroism.
Horizon 3 is currently in development.