Most of the time, machines inHorizon Forbidden Westare a nuisance, but they definitely have their advantages. Not only can you override a number of machines if you complete their respective cauldrons, but you’re able to also mount a few. There are three machines you can mount inHorizon Zero Dawnand four in its sequel.
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In this post-apocalyptic version of the United States, you can travel via Charger, Strider, Broadhead, Bristleback, Clawstrider, or Sunwing. And although all options are great, some are better than others. There are numerous factors to consider when deciding which mount is best. Speed, combat, and strength are all important. One machine may be great for combat, but incredibly slow, while others are best for travel but offer no defensive traits.
6Striders
Striders are the original Horizon mount. You’llcome across these horse-like machinesearly in the game in Zero Dawn. Just like horses, Striders are fast and agile, making them a great way to traverse the world.
But unfortunately, just like horses, the Striders are timid creatures. It can be difficult to sneak up on one if you choose to override it. And while other machines may get aggressive as soon as they spot you, Striders are more likely to run away. So though getting caught won’t result in you potentially dying, it does hinder your chances of successfully mounting one of the machines. They’re also incredibly basic and pale in comparison to the other mounts.
5Chargers
This machine type appears in both games and is the first machine you can mount in Forbidden West. Its horns resemble a ram, but the rest of its body is more similar to a bull. Chargers aren’t any faster than Striders or Broadheads, and they’re relatively weak when it comes to taking damage.
However, their kicks and charges can inflict a lot of damage, so while it may not be a great idea to take one into combat, at least you know it’ll offer you some level of defense. But combat is still exponentially easierwhen you’re using the weapons in your arsenal. Nonetheless, they’re still an apt method of transportation.
4Broadheads
These ox-like machines are large and commonly found in Zero Dawn. They’re a lot like cattle, meaning that though they’ll defend themselves, they aren’t necessarily patrolling areas for potential enemies like Burrowers and Watchers.
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Though they’re tough and can provide some protection, Broadheads are heavy machines, and their size often makes traveling with them more of a challenge than an advantage. It’s not so easy to turn them around or get them through narrow paths. This is why you probably don’t want to be riding one whenyou come across enemies, especially big machines, on the road and need to find an escape route off the beaten path. Trying to get away can get you stuck, making you easier prey.
3Clawstriders
The Clawstriders are one of the handfuls of machine types that resemble dinosaurs—in this case, a velociraptor. Facing off against Clawstriders can be a difficult endeavor. They’re tough machines that often travel in groups and are considered in the mid-weight range. While acid damage won’t hurt them, they’re vulnerable to shock damage.
These machines are made for combat, so they’re an ideal companion to have around when you get into trouble. Clawstriders are also smaller than most mounts, so they’re easy to maneuver without being hindered by obstacles on the terrain.
But of course, there are pros and cons to riding such a fierce fighter. The Clawstriders are fairly slow, so they’re not optimal for long travels. And honestly, there are timeswhen you’re better off traveling on foot.
2Bristlebacks
The Bristlebacks are one of the first machine types you can mount in Forbidden West. You’ll be introduced to them during a short quest where the machines are disrupting a nearby tribe. These machines are very large and spout acid as one of their primary attacks. Because of these traits, Bristlebacks can make great traveling companions when you come across enemies.
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But this is one of the reasons they can be so difficult to deal with, as many of your human enemies can mount them as well. Whether you’re dealing with them in stealth or out in the open, Bristlebacks make your battles all the more difficult. They can also be hard to sneak up on as they’re incredibly aggressive and quick to spot you, so the advantages really depend on who’s mounting them.
1Sunwing
One mount that is completely unique in comparison to the rest is the Sunwing. In Forbidden West, you’ll be given the ability to override and mount a Sunwing, one of the game’s flying machines.
The Sunwing is a mount you don’t need to override every time you want to use one; you can call your Sunwing over whenever you want to use it, given that the area is unrestricted. With the Sunwing, you’re able to traverse the open world without roadblocks. It’s easy to avoid other machines and there aren’t any obstacles to hinder your travel. They’re a great option if you’re fleeing a fight as you can get to safe heights.
You’ll also be able to get to out-of-reach places you’d normally have to climb, like Tallnecks. The only downside to this machine is that it doesn’t offer much defense. Unlike some of the other machines, the Sunwing won’t necessarily fight for you if you get involved with other human enemies or machines, and it’ll easily take damage.
