Horizon Call of the Mountain is a standalone virtual reality game set in the Horizon universe. It is not a DLC but rather a unique and separate gaming experience designed exclusively for the PSVR2 platform. While it exists within the same universe as the core Horizon titles, such as Horizon Zero Dawn and Horizon Forbidden West, it operates as an independent VR adventure, offering fans a fresh perspective on the familiar Horizon world.
In the game, players assume the role of Ryas, a Shadow Carja warrior, embarking on a perilous journey alongside Aloy and other recognizable characters. The primary objective revolves around investigating and combating a threat concealed within the treacherous mountainous terrain. This VR adventure falls within the action-adventure genre, emphasizing climbing mechanics and exhilarating machine battles. Ryas’ quest unfolds against the familiar backdrop of a post-apocalyptic world teeming with mechanical creatures, enigmatic ruins, and awe-inspiring landscapes.
This game seamlessly blends the known Horizon universe with a standalone story, making it accessible to both devoted fans and newcomers to the VR experience. It offers an opportunity to perceive the Horizon world in an entirely different light, featuring intense machine battles and breathtaking vistas that effectively showcase the PSVR2 platform’s potential.
The story centers on the urgent need to investigate and confront a growing hidden threat. For Horizon series enthusiasts, Call of the Mountain offers a chance to immerse themselves in the meticulously crafted world they adore, albeit in virtual reality. However, the premise sometimes takes a backseat to the game’s technical showcase aspects. The story may feel overshadowed by the focus on demonstrating the PSVR2’s capabilities, resulting in loose plot threads and an experience leaning more towards showcasing VR novelty than storytelling prowess.
While technically impressive, the game might not entirely justify its purchase for those seeking a comprehensive and narrative-driven VR adventure. It tends to prioritize showcasing the hardware’s capabilities over delivering a profoundly engaging narrative.
Regarding gameplay, Horizon Call of the Mountain offers a mix of excitement and moments that might become monotonous. The game excels in engrossing players, providing breathtaking post-apocalyptic vistas and a genuine feeling of standing atop towering mountains. Climbing mechanics take the forefront, with players frequently ascending walls, cliffs, and structures. Machine battles stand out as a highlight, effectively utilizing the PSVR2 Sense Controller to offer an engaging and satisfying combat experience.
However, the physicality of climbing, although initially captivating, can grow repetitive over time, lacking the variety necessary to maintain the overall experience’s appeal. On a positive note, machine battles shine, providing combat sequences where the precision of the PS Sense Controller truly stands out. Drawing your bow in combat with mechanical creatures in virtual reality delivers a very gratifying experience.
In the visual department, Horizon Call of the Mountain is nothing short of remarkable. The PSVR2 headset justifies the stunning post-apocalyptic vistas, intricate landscapes, and awe-inspiring mechanical creatures in the Horizon franchise. The sense of scale and total immersion is commendable, effectively transporting players to the summits of vast mountains. Music and sound design enhance the overall experience, elevating the atmosphere and adding depth to the world. Nonetheless, there are minor drawbacks, such as occasional lighting choices and repetitive environments.
On the PSVR2 platform, Horizon Call of the Mountain performs seamlessly and comfortably, with minimal frame rate issues. However, the limited battery life of the PSVR2 Sense controllers and occasional cable entanglement might disrupt gameplay. Although the game offers various comfort settings, players may experience mild discomfort during the initial hours, which typically diminishes as they acclimatize to the VR experience.
Horizon Call of the Mountain stands as a technical marvel and a testament to the potential of VR gaming on the PSVR2 platform. It immerses players in a stunning post-apocalyptic world, delivering moments of awe and excitement, especially during intense machine battles. However, its heavy reliance on climbing mechanics, relative lack of narrative depth, and occasional repetition may impact its overall appeal. While it excels in showcasing the hardware’s capabilities, it falls slightly short of being a must-buy VR title. Despite its moments of brilliance, Horizon Call of the Mountain feels like a puzzle missing a few essential pieces, raising questions about its purpose in the realm of VR gaming.
