Summary
- Release Year: 2015
- Genres: Adventure, Simulator
- Platforms: PC (Microsoft Windows), SteamVR
- Developers: Frontier Developments
- Publishers: Frontier Developments
Elite: Dangerous – Horizons: A Galactic Odyssey Awaits
Prepare for an epic space exploration adventure with Elite: Dangerous – Horizons (2015), an expansion to the critically acclaimed Elite: Dangerous. Horizons unlocks a new realm of gameplay, allowing players to venture beyond the stars and explore the surfaces of planets and moons throughout the vast Milky Way galaxy.
Seamless Transition from Space to Surface
One of the defining features of Elite: Dangerous – Horizons is its seamless transition from space to surface. Players can now effortlessly travel from the depths of space to the ground of planets and moons, choosing their landing point with precision. This groundbreaking technology eliminates loading screens and allows for a truly immersive and continuous gameplay experience.
1:1 Scale Worlds with Stunning Vistas
Horizons introduces a wide range of meticulously crafted planets and moons, each rendered on a 1:1 scale. These celestial bodies offer awe-inspiring vistas, from towering mountain ranges to deep canyons and serene lakes. As players traverse these alien landscapes, they will encounter diverse environments, including icy tundras, volcanic wastelands, and lush forests.
SRV Ground Vehicles for Planetary Exploration
To navigate the varied terrain of planetary surfaces, Horizons introduces the SRV (Surface Recon Vehicle). These nimble and versatile vehicles allow players to explore their surroundings, traverse obstacles, and engage in combat. SRVs come equipped with a variety of tools and weapons, enabling players to adapt to different situations and challenges.
Resource Discovery and Base Raiding
Horizons expands the gameplay loop of Elite: Dangerous by introducing planetary resource discovery and base raiding. Players can scan planets for valuable minerals and materials, which can be mined and sold for profit. Additionally, players can raid abandoned or player-owned bases for resources and loot. These activities add an exciting layer of strategy and risk-taking to the game.
Co-op and PvP on Planetary Surfaces
Elite: Dangerous – Horizons encourages collaboration and competition among players, even on planetary surfaces. Players can form teams to explore planets together, share resources, and tackle challenges cooperatively. Alternatively, they can engage in PvP combat, using their SRVs and weapons to outmaneuver and outgun their opponents.
Integration with Base Game
Horizons seamlessly integrates with the base game Elite: Dangerous, expanding the overall gameplay experience. Players can now seamlessly transition from space exploration to planetary exploration and back, creating a truly immersive and interconnected galactic odyssey.
Critical Acclaim and Awards
Elite: Dangerous – Horizons received widespread critical acclaim upon its release. It was praised for its stunning graphics, immersive gameplay, and groundbreaking planetary landings feature. The expansion won numerous awards, including “Best Simulation Game” at the 2015 Golden Joystick Awards and “Best Expansion” at the 2015 Game Developers Choice Awards.
Conclusion
Elite: Dangerous – Horizons is a must-have expansion for fans of space exploration games. It offers a vast and detailed galaxy to explore, with seamless transitions from space to surface, stunning planetary landscapes, and a variety of engaging gameplay opportunities. Whether you’re a seasoned Elite: Dangerous player or a newcomer to the series, Horizons is guaranteed to provide countless hours of immersive and unforgettable spacefaring adventures.
Review Score
9/10