Horizon Zero Dawn 3 Won’t Be Arriving Anytime Soon

Last week, Guerrilla Games unveiled its latest project, a multiplayer title named Horizon Hunters Gathering. This tactical co-op action game gives the Horizon universe a vibrant, Fortnite-inspired makeover. It’s the third Horizon title announced since the release of Horizon Forbidden West, and fans are starting to question the status of the next mainline entry in the open-world RPG series. Sources indicate that the sequel is still a considerable distance away and isn’t currently the studio’s primary focus.

While Horizon Hunters Gathering might appear to be just another side project, it’s actually where much of the Dutch studio’s talent is currently directed, according to two insiders familiar with the franchise’s direction. One source mentioned that many developers from Horizon Zero Dawn 3 have been reassigned to assist with Horizon Hunters Gathering, which Sony is keen to make a multiplayer hit. Another insider suggested that fans might have to wait three to five years for the next true adventure featuring Aloy, potentially making it a PlayStation 6 title, although it could still launch on PS5 as a cross-generation release.

This aligns with recent insights from industry analysts, who noted that a significant portion of Guerrilla’s resources is dedicated to Horizon Hunters Gathering, with the release of HZD3 not imminent. The studio expressed confidence in its new leadership, emphasizing their commitment to expanding the Horizon universe with Aloy’s next journey alongside this exciting online project.

Horizon Forbidden West, released in 2022, was one of the standout exclusives that marked the beginning of the PS5 generation. Instead of rushing a sequel, Sony has been focused on broadening the Horizon franchise into a larger transmedia brand. After a Netflix series adaptation fell through, the company shifted gears to develop a feature film. The franchise now includes VR experiences and LEGO spin-offs, with a Monster Hunter-style MMO from a major publisher also in the pipeline.

Horizon Hunters Gathering represents a significant step in this expansion strategy, but it has sparked concerns among fans about potential franchise fatigue. It reflects Sony’s ambition to grow the Horizon universe while navigating the challenges of live service gaming. Additionally, it highlights the slower pace of new first-party blockbuster sequels during the PS5 era, attributed to extended development cycles and shifting priorities.

One insider noted that Horizon Hunters Gathering is enjoyable and plays well, but it faces high expectations. This comes at a time when there is increasing pushback against live service games, as dedicated Horizon fans are eager for Aloy’s next major single-player adventure.