The upcoming Horizon title shifts gears to a co-op adventure, departing from the series’ traditional style.

Guerrilla Games and Sony Interactive Entertainment have unveiled the latest installment in the Horizon franchise, titled Horizon Hunters Gathering. This co-op action game is set to launch on PlayStation 5 and Windows PC.

In Horizon Hunters Gathering, teams of up to three players will take on the iconic machine dinosaurs that fans have come to love. The gameplay promises to be tactical and skill-based, enhancing the strategic combat of previous Horizon titles while incorporating team dynamics. Two game modes have been announced: a wave-based mode and a “multi-stage trial” featuring diverse challenges and rewards.

The game appears to blend various gameplay elements and genres, allowing players to assume the roles of unique Hunters reminiscent of characters from hero shooters, complete with a “rogue-lite perk system” for customization.

This shift to a co-op format marks a new direction for the franchise, but studio director Jan-Bart Van Beek reassures fans that single-player experiences will remain a priority for Guerrilla. The art style also takes a different approach, resembling a mix between a typical hero shooter and Fortnite, rather than the post-apocalyptic realism of the earlier mainline games.

Despite these stylistic changes, Horizon Hunters Gathering is fully integrated into the Horizon narrative. While specific story details are currently under wraps, the team hints that the narrative will continue to evolve beyond the game’s launch, suggesting it will function as a live-service title. The game will feature cross-play and cross-progression, allowing players on PS5 and PC to team up seamlessly.

No release date has been announced yet, but a playtest is scheduled for the end of February on both PS5 and PC, giving players a chance to experience the game in its early stages and provide feedback. Interested players can sign up through the Beta Program.