Guerrilla Games opens its second closed playtest for Horizon Hunters Gathering on May 22-25, expanding access to the upcoming multiplayer title beyond the February test window. The playtest launches on PS5 and PC via Steam simultaneously, with registration open through PlayStation's official beta program website.
Entry remains lottery-based. Players who want in must sign up through the PlayStation Beta Program portal, but selection remains random. Guerrilla hasn't disclosed the number of test slots available or acceptance rates from the first February playtest.
Horizon Hunters Gathering represents a significant strategic shift for the franchise. The original Horizon Zero Dawn and Forbidden West delivered single-player action RPG experiences. This multiplayer spin-off targets a different market segment, though Guerrilla hasn't detailed core gameplay mechanics, progression systems, or whether it follows live-service monetization patterns common to multiplayer titles.
The February test generated feedback that apparently warranted a second, broader evaluation window. Extended testing phases suggest either technical refinement needs or continued iteration on gameplay balance. A May test indicates Guerrilla targets a 2024 or early 2025 launch window, though no official release date exists.
Sony's willingness to fund a multiplayer Horizon project reflects confidence in the franchise's multiplayer potential despite zero prior experience in that space. The company has invested heavily in live-service games following successes like Destiny and Warframe, positioning Horizon Hunters Gathering as a comparable long-term revenue stream.
THE TAKEAWAY: Guerrilla Games expands its playtest population for Horizon Hunters Gathering, signaling advancement toward launch while testing multiplayer mechanics in what represents the franchise's biggest strategic departure.