Map Unlocking System
There’s no denying that Horizon Zero dawn expands on gameplay features seen in many other open world games. The map unlocking system is certainly reminiscent of Ubisoft games, in particular, similarly requiring players to climb a high peak to reveal points of interest in the surrounding vicinity. But where Assassin’s Creed and Far Cry merely had players climbing tall buildings, Horizon Zero Dawn goes one step further, employing awe-inspiring giant dinosaurs as walking towers.
Platforming up Horizon Zero Dawn’s Tall-neck robot dinos never feels dull. It demands careful scouting, avoiding enemies while seeking an appropriate place to jump on top of and begin climbing their massive bulk. With a polish typical of the whole game, the unlock system is a feature inspired by games-gone-by, but through employing a combination of tactical gameplay, tight platforming, and a whiff of badassery, is made to feel totally unique and exciting.
