On March 21, the PlayStation exclusive game Horizon Forbidden West is finally coming to PC! To celebrate, let’s delve into the captivating world of Horizon Zero Dawn and its highly anticipated sequel, Horizon Forbidden West, exploring their connections to Greek mythology.

The “Horizon” series, comprising Horizon Zero Dawn and Horizon Forbidden West, is a testament to the enduring legacy of Greek mythology, seamlessly integrating its motifs and archetypes into a post-apocalyptic world where nature has reclaimed the ruins of a forgotten civilization, and robotic creatures roam the land.

Horizon Zero Dawn

Horizon Zero Dawn introduces us to Aloy, a skilled hunter and archer, living in a world overrun by machines. As Aloy embarks on her journey, the influence of Greek mythology is evident. The central premise revolves around Project Zero Dawn, a desperate attempt by humanity to save itself from extinction. The game’s narrative is deeply rooted in the mythological tradition, with the terraforming system GAIA and her subordinate functions named after Greek gods, embodying their roles and characteristics. GAIA, the personification of Earth in Greek mythology, is the central AI responsible for the creation and maintenance of the biosphere, mirroring her mythological counterpart’s role as the mother of all life.

The subordinate functions, each named after a Greek god, serve specific purposes in maintaining the ecosystem. For instance, Hephaestus, the god of blacksmiths and fire, is responsible for the creation of the machines that roam the world, while Apollo, the god of knowledge, is intended to educate future generations. This clever naming convention not only pays homage to the rich tapestry of Greek myths but also provides insight into the roles these AI systems play within the game’s universe.

Horizon Forbidden West

In Horizon Forbidden West, the sequel, the Greek mythology influence expands further. The game’s antagonist, a rogue AI named Nemesis, is reminiscent of the Greek goddess of retribution, who punishes those guilty of hubris. Nemesis’ role in the game as a force of vengeance against humanity’s overreach parallels the goddess’s purpose in mythology. The game’s narrative arc follows Aloy’s quest to thwart this existential threat, akin to the epic journeys of Greek heroes like Odysseus or Hercules.

Horizon Forbidden West Complete Edition (by Guerilla Games) will come out on PC on March 21, and you can order a copy from Steam or from Epic Games.

The Horizon series and Greek Mythology

The games’ settings also draw from Greek mythology, with locations named after mythical places. For example, the city of Meridian echoes the grandeur of ancient Greek city-states, serving as a hub of culture and commerce. The landscapes, from lush forests to barren deserts, evoke the varied geography of Greece, the cradle of these ancient stories.

The character arcs in both games are reminiscent of Greek tragedies and epics, where heroes face their destinies and overcome trials through strength and cunning. Aloy’s journey is fraught with challenges that test her resolve, mirroring the trials faced by Greek heroes. Her encounters with the remnants of the old world and the revelations about her origins are akin to the unveiling of truths in Greek dramas, where characters often discover their true identities and fates.

The influence of Greek mythology extends beyond narrative and setting; it permeates the design of the machines that Aloy encounters. These mechanical beasts, while futuristic, carry the essence of creatures from Greek legends. Their designs and behaviors often reflect the attributes associated with the gods and creatures of myth, creating a sense of familiarity within the foreign, machine-dominated landscape.

Horizon Forbidden West : Aloy’s Odyssey

As Aloy, our intrepid heroine, embarks on her quest across the Forbidden West, she carries the weight of both ancient myths and futuristic technology. Her journey mirrors the hero’s odyssey, where she confronts gods (or their digital avatars) and unravels the secrets of a world reborn.

In this fusion of past and future, Aloy’s path converges with Nemesis once more. How will she defeat this malevolent AI? Perhaps the answer lies in the echoes of Greek mythology—the hero’s courage, the gods’ capriciousness, and the timeless struggle between mortals and immortals.

The “Horizon” series is a modern odyssey, a blend of science fiction and mythology that explores themes of creation, destruction, and humanity’s place in the universe. It’s a narrative that resonates with the timeless quality of Greek myths, reimagined for a new era. Through its storytelling, world-building, and character development, the series pays tribute to the ancient tales that continue to fascinate and inspire, proving that even in a distant, machine-dominated future, the stories of the past still hold power and relevance.

So, as the sun sets over the Forbidden West, we await Aloy’s next chapter—a saga that bridges the gap between ancient legends and the silicon heartbeats of a fractured world. For more visit the official site of the game.