What's Happening?
Guerrilla Games recently announced a new co-op title, Horizon Hunters Gathering, for PS5 and PC. The game, a spin-off from the popular Horizon series, features preset characters and a stylized art direction.
Despite a structured announcement and gameplay footage, the game has been met with significant negativity online. The official reveal trailer has garnered 735,000 views but only 20,000 likes, indicating a lukewarm reception. Comparatively, other games like Crimson Desert and GeniGods: Nezha have received more favorable ratios of likes to views. The backlash is evident in YouTube comments and gaming communities on Reddit, where users criticize Sony's focus on live service games and the art style of the new title. A poll conducted by Push Square revealed that only 3% of respondents are enthusiastic about the game, while 64% expressed disinterest or outright rejection.
Why It's Important?
The negative reception of Horizon Hunters Gathering highlights the challenges faced by game developers and publishers in meeting fan expectations, especially when deviating from established series norms. Sony's push towards live service games has been controversial, and this backlash could influence future decisions regarding game development and marketing strategies. The response also underscores the importance of first impressions in the gaming industry, as initial negative feedback can significantly impact a game's success. For Guerrilla Games and Sony, this situation may necessitate a reevaluation of their approach to engaging with their audience and addressing community concerns.
What's Next?
Guerrilla Games and Sony may need to address the feedback from the gaming community to mitigate the negative perception of Horizon Hunters Gathering. This could involve releasing additional information or updates to clarify the game's direction and features. Engaging with the community through forums or social media could help in understanding and addressing specific concerns. Additionally, the companies might consider adjusting their marketing strategies to better align with fan expectations and preferences. The outcome of these efforts could influence the game's reception upon release and its long-term success.
