Customization
When we think of RPGs, we typically associate them with in-depth customization options; we’re role-playing after all. But unlike Geralt in The Witcher 3, Aloy’s equipment and appearence can’t really be altered in any particularly noticeable way. Nor can they really be tinkered with so as to mold and “build” a certain style of character. There’s no doubt Horizon does a great job of balancing action with RPG fans, but in the case of customization, it might have been better to include more RPG-centric options.
Horizon Zero Dawn only offers a handful of different weapons and each of their upgraded versions is virtually identical in appearance, only differing by the distinction of their associated tribe. Weapons can only be bought from one of the many merchants around the open world, too. And frustratingly, apart from the merchants in the “Embrace” region of the game, all of these traders sell nearly the exact same stock of weapons. The whole process is a bit bland.
“Modifications” do add stat boosts to weaponry that certainly add extra elements to the game’s combat, but again there’s only so much one can do with the 1-3 slots available for each. Introducing a greater emphasis on typical RPG stats like stun, freeze, bludgeon, crush, and pierce would have surely put a greater importance on forging unique weapons, and given their construction more diversity, too. None of these statistics needs to bog down Horizon Zero Dawn’s balance between role-playing and action, but rather, it would’ve added more options, strategy, and replay value to the game.
The same applies to the outfits, which are not only a bit unsightly at times, but their modifications are even more limited in number. The effects of modifications feel even more negligible to gameplay, too. Never once did I really feel the need to equip a different outfit for an encounter or mission type. Again, this seems like a slightly wasted opportunity, and as much as I adore the happy medium between action and RPG, it sometimes feels a little too dumbed down.
