For fans of Horizon Forbidden West, the waiting game might soon be over. As the whispers surrounding the “Complete Edition” of the acclaimed game grow longer, gamers who would like a more definitive experience of Aloy’s second solo outing won’t have to wait for much longer.
Recently, Gematsu pointed out that a Japanese retailer has slated the release of the Horizon Forbidden West: Complete Edition for October 6.
It’s an interesting move, and if accurate, means that there’s just a short window of anticipation left for fans.
Horizon Forbidden West Complete Edition (PS5) listed for October 6 release at Japanese retailer Neowing. Priced at ¥7,981.
No description, but should include the base game + DLC. Bonuses are digital soundtrack, digital art book, and digital comic book.https://t.co/uPNVzNUoxu pic.twitter.com/3R3i42WMTR
— Gematsu (@gematsu) September 27, 2023
Diving into what’s in store for fans, this edition isn’t just a base game rehash. Naturally, it includes the base game, but it also includes the slightly controversial post-launch expansion, Burning Shores. In addition, for those who appreciate the artistry behind the game, the Complete Edition is expected to include a digital soundtrack, a digital art book, as well as a digital comic book. It’s a comprehensive package that provides more than just gameplay; it’s an immersive experience.
This isn’t the first hint we’ve had about such a release. Just a few weeks ago, the same release was rated in Singapore.
But, what’s interesting here is the re-release for the PlayStation 5. Even though Forbidden West wasn’t exactly exclusive to Sony’s flagship console, it had several features exclusive to the PS5. The Burning Shores expansion doubled down on this. Thus, the only reason why this “exclusive” re-release for the PS5 is probably happening is to take advantage of the holiday season and the recent influx of PS5 buyers following a series of sales amidst rumors of the release of a PS5 Slim and PS5 Pro.
However, while the PS5 version seems certain, there’s a layer of disappointment for PC enthusiasts. This new listing only highlights the PS5 version. This might be deflating for PC players who, during the earlier leak in September, had hoped to embark on Aloy’s journey.
Still, it’s crucial to remember that Sony had promised to bring more of its games to the PC platform. It’s still possible for the PC port of Horizon Forbidden West Complete Edition to come out only at a later time.
The strategy of re-releasing the game under the “Complete Edition” banner isn’t novel for Guerrilla. Their previous title, Horizon Zero Dawn, saw a similar approach. Given the success and reception of that edition, it’s not unexpected that they’d take a similar route with the sequel.
Surprisingly enough, the listed price for the Horizon Forbidden West: Complete Edition on the Japanese store, Neowing, is 7981 Japanese yen, which translates to roughly 53 US dollars. It’s a competitive price point, considering the expansive content that’s being offered.
Ultimately, the larger narrative here isn’t just about re-releasing Horizon Forbidden West on the PS5 and the PC – this was a given, already. More likely, this speaks to a broader strategy. Guerrilla Games isn’t just looking at the present. A third entry is already in development, while a multiplayer spin-off is on its way as well. Finally, there’s chatter about a possible PS5 remaster of Horizon Zero Dawn.
As the clock ticks down to October 6, there’s a blend of certainty and conjecture, but it’s clear that – Horizon Forbidden West: Complete Edition is coming to the PS5. Whether or not a PC version will follow suit remains a mystery.
