Guerrilla Games has officially announced the second closed playtest for Horizon Hunters Gathering, the highly anticipated co-op multiplayer expansion of the Horizon franchise.
Following a successful initial testing phase in February, this upcoming event marks a significant leap forward in content, introducing new playable characters, a massive environmental expansion, and the first look at the game’s narrative-driven mission structure. For fans of Horizon Zero Dawn and Forbidden West, this playtest offers a glimpse into how the series is evolving into a social, cooperative experience.
Playtest Schedule and Registration Process
The second closed playtest is scheduled to run for a single weekend, specifically from May 22 to May 25, 2026. This event is cross-platform, supporting both PlayStation 5 and PC (Steam) users. Unlike open betas, this is a restricted event designed to stress-test servers and gather feedback on combat balance.
To participate, players must register through the PlayStation Beta Program. Invites are distributed via email, and status can be tracked through a user’s PlayStation Network account settings.
It is important to note that participation in previous tests does not guarantee entry into this round; all interested players must ensure their beta interest flags are up to date. Furthermore, this test is conducted under a strict Non-Disclosure Agreement (NDA), meaning any form of recording, streaming, or public screenshot sharing is strictly prohibited.
Meet the New Hunters: Ensa and Shadow
The core of the Horizon Hunters Gathering experience lies in its diverse roster of playable characters. While the original trio, Rem, Sun, and Axle, returns with significant gameplay refinements, Guerrilla has introduced two new specialists that radically change the team dynamic.
| Hunter | Tribe | Role | Weaponry | Primary Ability |
| Ensa | Oseram | Heavy Melee / CC | Cane Hook | High-impact pulls and ground slams for area control. |
| Shadow | Carja | Stealth / Summoner | Saber | Commands a tamed Stalker machine for distractions. |
| Rem | Nora | Archer / Scout | Hunter Bow | Precise long-range damage and machine tagging. |
| Sun | Carja | Support / Healer | Blastsling | Elemental buffs and health restoration for the squad. |
| Axle | Oseram | Tank / Defender | Forgefire | High durability and defensive shielding for allies. |
Ensa brings the Oseram’s signature mechanical ingenuity to the front lines. Her Cane Hook allows her to manipulate the battlefield, pulling smaller machines toward her for finishing blows or anchoring larger threats to the ground. Conversely, Shadow introduces the game’s first “pet-class” mechanic. By commanding a Stalker, Shadow can remain in stealth while his machine companion harasses enemies, making him ideal for players who prefer a tactical, indirect approach to combat.
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New Region: The Wilds of Breakers’ Bounty
The second playtest moves the action beyond the familiar ruins of Devil’s Thirst and into a brand-new region known as Breakers’ Bounty. This area is significantly larger than the previous map and serves as a showcase for the game’s environmental variety.
- Lush Jungles: These areas are packed with dense vegetation, providing ample opportunities for stealthy Hunters to ambush machines from the tall grass.
- Ravaged Ruins: The remains of an ancient city offer a vertical playground. Hunters must use parkour and climbing mechanics to navigate crumbling skyscrapers while fending off aerial machines.
- Scorched Desert: An open, high-risk zone where visibility is high but cover is scarce. This is where players will encounter the deadliest heavyweight machines, including the Thunderjaw and the Dreadclaw.
Narrative Content and Gameplay Modes
For many players, the highlight of this test will be the debut of Episodes. These are narrative-driven campaign missions that flesh out the lore of the Gathering. The first playable episode takes place in Ashwater Valley, a strategically vital location that players must defend from a relentless machine incursion.
In response to player feedback regarding solo play, Guerrilla has introduced Hunter NPCs. If you do not have a full three-person squad, you can now deploy with AI-controlled versions of Rem, Sun, or Axle. These NPCs will follow commands and provide combat support, making the game’s difficult “Episodes” accessible to solo adventurers.
Updated Game Modes
- Machine Incursion: This wave-based defense mode has been updated with Hard and Merciless difficulty settings. Merciless mode is designed for max-level coordination, often forcing teams to fight multiple Apex-level machines simultaneously.
- Cauldron Descent: These multi-stage dungeons now feature “Challenging Rooms.” These are interior puzzles and combat trials that require specific Hunter abilities to solve, encouraging a balanced team composition.
Searchable Keywords and Official Links
For those looking to optimize their digital publishing or stay informed via social media, the following resources and keywords are essential for tracking the game’s development:
- Official Socials: @Guerrilla and @PlayStation on Twitter/X for the latest trailers and registration alerts.
This playtest represents a vital step for Guerrilla Games as they refine the balance between narrative depth and cooperative gameplay. Whether you are hunting solo with NPCs or tackling Merciless difficulty with a full squad, the expansion into Breakers’ Bounty marks a bold new chapter for the Horizon series.
How can I join the second closed playtest for Horizon Hunters Gathering?
To participate in the upcoming playtest (May 22–25, 2026), you must register through the PlayStation Beta Program. Once signed in with your PlayStation Network account, you can flag your interest for the game. Please note that invitations are not guaranteed and are typically sent via email in the week leading up to the event. Both PS5 and PC (Steam) players must use this registration method.
Can I play Horizon Hunters Gathering solo, or is it multiplayer only?
While the game is designed as a three-player cooperative experience, this second playtest introduces a new “Solo Mode” featuring Hunter NPCs. If you prefer to play alone or do not have a full squad, you can fill empty team slots with AI versions of Rem, Sun, or Axle. These NPCs are programmed to provide battle assists during the narrative Episodes and Machine Incursion modes.
Will my progress from the playtest carry over to the final game?
No, progress made during the closed playtest phases will not carry over to future tests or to the game’s official launch. These sessions are intended for server stress testing and gameplay balancing, and all player data, including character builds and loot, will be reset once the playtest window concludes.