Horizon Forbidden West: Burning Shores, a Short, Stunning, PS5-Only Send-Off

DLC · Purchased April 20, 2023 · $20.24 via PSN

Horizon Forbidden West: Burning Shores
Photo: Guerrilla Games / PlayStation

The Setup

Burning Shores is the story DLC expansion for Horizon Forbidden West, taking Aloy into the ruins of Los Angeles to confront a rogue AI and a new antagonist faction. It’s PS5-exclusive, no PS4 version, and adds a new map region, story missions, and machines.

The Review

Some of the series’ best-looking set pieces yet, and the emotional final act to Aloy’s storyline landed better than I expected. New machines and combat scenarios feel fresh rather than reused. It’s short for the price (5-8 hours) and locks out anyone still on PS4, and the middle section drags a bit with fetch-style objectives.

What I Liked

  • Gorgeous new environment and set-pieces
  • Strong emotional final act for Aloy’s arc
  • Fresh new machines and combat scenarios

What I Didn’t

  • PS5-only, locks out PS4 owners of the base game
  • Short for the price
  • Middle section drags with fetch objectives

The Verdict

Rating: 4/5

Where to Buy

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