Sony has released a newdev diaryforHorizon Zero Dawnin which developer Guerrilla Games shows the creative evolution of themachinesthat have come to dominate the landscape of the world that main characterAloymust navigate.
The video is a fascinating look into the creative process behind game development as we see the inspirations behind the designs of the machines. Starting with real life animals, the team at Guerrilla amplified these common creatures into larger than life representations by combining the majesty of nature with prehistoric anatomy and high tech robotics. The design extends into creature behavior as the goal is for players to be able to see the creatures and predict how they will behave by their appearance. TheShellwalkercreature was shown in illustration, as a crab like creature that also presents an opportunity for players to loot the crate on its back.
The game’s diverse ecological environments also impact the creatures, and the video shows theSnapmaw, a crocodile like creature that operates in groups and is amphibious. Aloy has the ability to sprint swim but the creature still presents a lethal challenge.
Lastly, the video went into how Aloy can co-opt the machines, through herOverrideability. By hacking these creatures, Aloy can perform different functions, such as using theBroadheadas a mount, or getting the Watchers to fight on her side. Climbing and hacking aTallneckwill have overworld implications, giving Aloy information on her surroundings and marking machine locations on the map, as well as providing a concussive AoE shockwave that affects nearby machines. When observing machines from a distance they will exhibit idle behavior but once combat is initiated, their AI takes over, necessitating careful study and adaptation to their behaviors.
It’s always a treat to see the development process in action. Horizon Zero Dawn is shaping up to be a big game hunt similar to other open world Action RPGs likeDragon’s DogmaandThe Witcher 3, where players are tackling some truly epic monsters. Horizon Zero Dawn releases Febrary 28th, 2017 for the PS4. We’ll keep monitoring the game’s development so check back often for future updates!
Visit theHorizon Zero Dawn Wiki
More onHorizon Zero Dawn
