Guerrilla Games has announced Horizon Hunters Gathering, a new tactical three-player co-op action game set in the Horizon universe. The spin-off allows players to team up and hunt machines in challenging, replayable modes. A closed playtest is scheduled for later this month.
Guerrilla Games, the developer behind Horizon Zero Dawn and Horizon Forbidden West, unveiled Horizon Hunters Gathering on February 5, 2026. This spin-off marks the studio's first multiplayer title in the franchise, known since 2022 to be in development. Designed for PlayStation 5 and PC, the game emphasizes cooperative play where teams of up to three hunters tackle killer machines in a style reminiscent of Monster Hunter.
The combat system is described as tactical, reactive, and skill-based. Game director Arjan Bak explained on the PlayStation Blog: "Combat is tactical, reactive, and deeply skill-based, building on the tactical precision of the Horizon games while embracing the dynamics of team play." Unlike the mainline games' grounded visuals, Horizon Hunters Gathering adopts a more stylized aesthetic.
Players can choose from a roster of characters, each with unique melee or ranged weapons and playstyles. A roguelite perk system lets users customize builds per run, while selectable classes alter abilities. Game modes include Machine Incursion, featuring waves of machines culminating in a boss battle, and Cauldron Descent, a multi-stage adventure through chambers with battles and hidden doors offering rewards.
A social hub serves as a base for character customization, shopping, gear upgrades, and team assembly. The title is canonical to the Horizon universe, featuring a narrative campaign with new mysteries, characters, and threats. Co-op supports playing with friends or AI bots, with plans for additional adventures post-launch. Cross-play and cross-progression will connect PS5 and PC players.
Guerrilla promises more details soon, but players can sign up now for the first closed playtest via the PlayStation Beta Program, set for later in February.
