Horizon Hunters Gathering: Guerrilla’s Bold New Co-Op Spin on the Machine-Hunting Universe

Guerrilla Games is taking the Horizon franchise in an electrifying new direction with Horizon Hunters Gathering, a tactical co-op action game built for three-player squads and coming exclusively to PS5 and PC. This isn’t just another Horizon spin-off—it’s a fast-paced, rogue-lite co-op experience that demands teamwork, adaptability, and razor-sharp coordination.

The game’s core revolves around two distinct modes: Machine Incursion and Cauldron Descent. The former is a high-octane, wave-based survival mode where machines swarm relentlessly from underground portals, culminating in a punishing boss fight that will test even the most seasoned teams. The latter is a longer, multi-stage expedition filled with escalating threats, optional detours, and high-risk, high-reward loot opportunities. Both modes are playable in the upcoming closed playtest at the end of February, which will run simultaneously on PS5 and PC via the PlayStation Beta Program.

One of the most intriguing aspects of Horizon Hunters Gathering is its commitment to cross-play and cross-progression. Players on PS5 and PC can team up seamlessly, and progress is tied to your PlayStation account, ensuring a unified experience across platforms. However, with no release date or pricing details confirmed yet, the February playtest is your best chance to gauge whether the game’s combat loop and trio-only structure hit the mark.

Hunters, Perks, and a Living Hub

Unlike traditional Horizon games, Hunters Gathering doesn’t let you create a custom character. Instead, you’ll choose from a roster of pre-designed Hunters, each with unique melee or ranged combat styles, specialized weapons, and distinct roles. This design choice emphasizes teamwork, as every player’s role is crucial to survival.

The game also introduces a rogue-lite perk system, allowing you to tweak and reshape your build from run to run. This adds a layer of replayability, as no two hunts feel exactly the same. Between missions, you’ll return to the Hunters Gathering hub—a social space where you can customize your Hunter, visit vendors, upgrade gear, and prepare for the next challenge.

A Canon Story with Expanding Horizons

Guerrilla isn’t just focusing on gameplay mechanics; they’re weaving Hunters Gathering into the broader Horizon narrative. The game features a fully canon story campaign with new threats and mysteries, though details remain under wraps for now. The studio has hinted that the narrative will continue to expand post-launch, suggesting a steady stream of new missions and story beats to keep players engaged.

What’s Next?

If you’re eager to dive in, sign-ups for the closed playtest are open through the PlayStation Beta Program. The test will provide a crucial first look at whether the game’s tactical depth and co-op dynamics resonate with players. Guerrilla has also promised additional playtests and development updates in the coming months, with announcements shared through their official Discord server.

For fans of the Horizon universe, Hunters Gathering represents a bold evolution. It’s a game that challenges you to think on your feet, adapt to chaos, and rely on your squad like never before. Whether you’re a veteran of the series or a newcomer, this co-op adventure promises to deliver a fresh, adrenaline-fueled take on the machine-hunting formula.

Tags: Horizon Hunters Gathering, Guerrilla Games, co-op action, PS5, PC, cross-play, cross-progression, Machine Incursion, Cauldron Descent, rogue-lite, tactical gameplay, Horizon universe, closed playtest, PlayStation Beta Program, Hunters Gathering hub, canon story, multiplayer, squad-based combat, wave-based survival, loot-driven, post-launch updates, Discord announcements.

Viral Sentences:

• “Three players, one squad, endless machines—Horizon Hunters Gathering is co-op chaos at its finest.”
• “Guerrilla’s latest is a rogue-lite revolution in the Horizon universe—tactical, thrilling, and team-driven.”
• “Cross-play and cross-progression? Horizon Hunters Gathering is breaking barriers and building squads.”
• “Machine Incursion or Cauldron Descent—choose your chaos in this adrenaline-fueled co-op adventure.”
• “The February playtest is your golden ticket to the future of Horizon—don’t miss it!”

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