Guerrilla Games just shocked fans with Horizon Hunters Gathering, a bold new direction for the franchise. The studio announced this 3-player cooperative Monster Hunter-style game today, arriving on PS5 and PC with cross-play support. This marks an exciting first for Horizon, bringing machine-hunting battles to life through tactical team-based action.
🔥 Quick Facts
- Release Window: TBA, but closed playtest starts end of February 2026
- Platforms: PS5 and PC with full cross-play and cross-progression support
- Game Style: Tactical 3-player co-op hunts inspired by Monster Hunter mechanics
- Unique Element: Set in Horizon universe with anime-inspired art direction and rogue-lite perks
What Is Horizon Hunters Gathering Exactly?
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Horizon Hunters Gathering represents Guerrilla Games‘ first major multiplayer venture into the Horizon universe. Players team up as heroic Hunters to protect a world threatened by deadly machines. Arjan Bak, Game Director at Guerrilla, confirmed the vision started years ago: bringing cooperative hunting to Horizon’s machine-filled world. The game combines Killzone multiplayer experience with Horizon’s tactical gameplay, creating something entirely fresh.
Combat emphasizes tactical precision, reactive teamwork, and skill-based encounters. Each Hunter brings unique weapons and playstyles. Beyond combat, the game features a narrative campaign (currently under wraps) that integrates fully into Horizon canon. Players customize their Hunter loadouts, upgrade gear, and prepare at a central social hub between missions.
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Machine Incursion launches players into high-intensity battles where waves of enemies emerge from underground gateways, culminating in encounters with formidable bosses. Cauldron Descent offers longer, multi-stage trials featuring brutal machine encounters and hidden opportunities for prepared teams. Both modes emphasize replayability and dynamic challenge design.
The studio aims for both accessibility and depth. New players can jump into hunts, while experienced teams coordinate complex strategies. Rogue-lite perk systems allow build customization, letting squads adapt to different mission types and enemy combinations.
| Feature | Details |
| Player Count | Up to 3 players per team |
| Game Modes | Machine Incursion, Cauldron Descent, Campaign |
| Cross-Play | PS5 and PC fully supported at launch |
| Customization | Hunter roster with distinct weapons and rogue-lite perks |
“Hunt deadly machines in tactical three-player co-op action and adapt your Hunter for intense missions.”
— Arjan Bak, Game Director, Guerrilla
Art Style Turns Heads with Bold New Direction
Horizon Hunters Gathering embraces an anime-inspired aesthetic that differs dramatically from Forbidden West’s photorealism. Character designs feel vibrant, expressive, and adventure-focused. The visual shift aims for broader appeal while maintaining Horizon’s core identity. Environments showcase diverse biomes filled with machine encounters and hidden exploration elements.
Players travel through richly detailed locations during hunts, each offering unique atmospheres and tactical opportunities. The Hunters Gathering hub serves as a vibrant social space where squads connect, customize gear, visit vendors, and celebrate victories together. This mirrors Monster Hunter’s gathering concept while adding Horizon-specific worldbuilding.
Closed Playtest Coming This Month, No Launch Date Yet
Guerrilla launches a small-scale closed playtest at the end of February 2026. Players can sign up through the PlayStation Beta Program on both PS5 and PC. The beta tests Machine Incursion and Cauldron Descent modes, gathering crucial player feedback to shape development.
An exact release date remains unannounced. Guerrilla has launched a dedicated Discord community for updates and announcements. The studio promises regular development updates and future playtest opportunities. Cross-progression works seamlessly for players using the same PlayStation account across both platforms.
Why Is This Announcement Sparking Debate Among Fans?
The anime-inspired art style has divided Horizon fans, with some embracing the fresh direction while others expected Horizon 3 instead. Forbes questioned the live-service approach, while Game Informer praised the tactical co-op gameplay. Reddit discussions highlight excitement about Monster Hunter-style mechanics alongside concerns about visual tone.
Industry observers note that Sony’s shift toward multiplayer experiences reflects broader gaming trends. However, fans passionate about Aloy’s single-player adventures express disappointment about delayed mainline sequels. Guerrilla has confirmed work continues on traditional Horizon entries, reassuring the core audience that cooperation and story-driven gameplay both matter.
Annabelle Ink is a gaming journalist and lifelong gamer who lives and breathes video game culture. From console releases to esports tournaments, this dedicated journalist brings insider knowledge and genuine enthusiasm to every review and feature. Her expertise spans multiple gaming platforms, helping readers discover their next favorite game while staying connected to the pulse of the gaming industry.