Horizon Forbidden West: Burning Shores Score – A DLC Story Worth Exploring
Horizon Forbidden West: Burning Shores is the highly anticipated expansion to Guerrilla Games’ 2022 masterpiece, Horizon Forbidden West. This downloadable content (DLC) takes players beyond the sprawling landscapes of the Forbidden West and into the volcanic ruins of Los Angeles, now known as the Burning Shores. With a gripping narrative, breathtaking visuals, and refined gameplay mechanics, Burning Shores not only expands Aloy’s journey but also deepens the lore of the Horizon universe.
A New Chapter for Aloy
The DLC picks up shortly after the events of Forbidden West, with Aloy venturing south to the treacherous archipelago of the Burning Shores in pursuit of a rogue Zenith, Walter Londra. Unlike the base game’s sprawling open world, Burning Shores offers a more focused experience, concentrating on a smaller but densely packed region filled with danger and mystery.
Aloy’s character development remains a highlight. Having already faced the Zeniths and uncovered more about her origins, she is now more determined than ever to protect the world from impending threats. The writing is sharp, with Aloy’s interactions—especially with the new companion Seyka—feeling organic and emotionally resonant. Seyka, a Quen marine, is a standout addition, bringing a fresh dynamic to Aloy’s journey. Their partnership evolves naturally, adding depth to both characters without overshadowing the main plot.
A Visually Stunning Playground
Guerrilla Games has outdone itself with the environmental design of Burning Shores. The DLC leverages the power of the PlayStation 5 to deliver some of the most jaw-dropping vistas in gaming. The volcanic islands are a stark contrast to the deserts and jungles of the Forbidden West, featuring molten lava flows, crumbling skyscrapers, and lush overgrown ruins. The dynamic weather system and improved lighting make every moment feel cinematic, whether you’re gliding through ash-filled skies or diving into crystal-clear waters.
The attention to detail is staggering. Ancient Los Angeles is reimagined as a post-apocalyptic paradise, with landmarks like the Hollywood sign and Santa Monica Pier now overrun by nature and machines. The sense of discovery is amplified by the verticality of the terrain, encouraging players to explore every nook and cranny.
Refined Gameplay and New Challenges
Burning Shores doesn’t reinvent the wheel when it comes to gameplay, but it refines and expands upon the already stellar mechanics of Forbidden West. The new Waterwing mount allows for seamless underwater and aerial traversal, making exploration more fluid than ever. Combat remains a high point, with new machine variants—such as the terrifying Bilegut—forcing players to adapt their strategies.
The DLC also introduces fresh weapon types and skill upgrades, giving veterans new tools to experiment with. The addition of more puzzle-heavy ruins and hidden collectibles ensures that exploration remains rewarding. However, some may find the side activities repetitive if they’ve already exhausted the base game’s content.
A Compelling, If Brief, Story
The main narrative of Burning Shores is engaging but relatively short, clocking in at around 6-8 hours for the main questline. Walter Londra serves as a compelling antagonist, blending charisma with menace in a way that makes him more memorable than some of Forbidden West’s villains. His motivations tie neatly into the broader Horizon lore, setting up intriguing possibilities for future installments.
The emotional core of the DLC, however, lies in Aloy and Seyka’s relationship. Without delving into spoilers, their bond is handled with nuance, offering one of the most heartfelt arcs in the series. Some fans may wish for a longer runtime to fully explore certain plot threads, but what’s here is executed brilliantly.
Final Verdict
Horizon Forbidden West: Burning Shores is a stellar expansion that builds upon the strengths of its predecessor. With a captivating story, stunning visuals, and refined gameplay, it’s a must-play for fans of Aloy’s journey. While its shorter length may leave some wanting more, the quality of the experience more than justifies the adventure.
For those who loved Forbidden West, Burning Shores is an essential next chapter—one that leaves the door wide open for the future of the Horizon saga.
