There has been plenty of discourse surrounding the numerous PlayStation remasters over the years, and it came to a head with Horizon Zero Dawn Remastered. Many felt like the 2017 game was already perfect and did not need any enhancements or additions, while others felt that improving the game's visuals to be more in line with the sequel was a positive change.
Fortunately, Horizon Zero Dawn Remastered's changes interested fans, with it offering robust alterations to the environmental design, foliage density, character models, lighting, cutscene direction, and so much more. Luckily, for fans interested in picking it up, there is a $10 upgrade option, ensuring the jump between versions is as cheap as possible. While for some the upgrade may not be worthwhile, it will certainly appeal to many thanks to the plethora of features and content it offers.
Horizon Zero Dawn Remastered's Pricing Explained
It Costs Just $10 To Upgrade
Horizon Zero Dawn Remastered costs $49.99 if bought without previously owning the original Horizon Zero Dawn. However, for those who already own Horizon Zero Dawn on PC or PS4, there is a $10 upgrade option. Choosing this option unlocks the full Remastered version, as well as obviously keeping the original. This type of upgrade path has been available for prior PlayStation exclusives, such as Ghost of Tsushima. This upgrade option is available for both the physical and digital versions of Horizon Zero Dawn.
It is worth noting that, despite the Remastered version coming packed with DLC, it is not necessary to own the Complete Edition of Horizon Zero Dawn to upgrade to the Remastered version. So, fans who own the base game but not the DLC can pay $10 to get the Remastered version, which comes with the DLC.
Unlike with the poorly handled Until Dawn remake, it is absolutely possible to buy a second-hand copy of Horizon Zero Dawn for just a couple of dollars and then pay $10 to upgrade to the Remastered version, rather than paying $50. This will be the cheapest way for most players to access the Remastered version if they don't already own HZD. Additionally, anyone who got Horizon Zero Dawn for free from the Play at Home initiative can also upgrade for just $10.
Horizon Zero Dawn Upgrade Is Worth The Cost
It's Amazing Value For Such An Iconic Game
The $10 upgrade path is absolutely worth the cost, as it is a far superior version of the game and significantly transforms the worst aspects of Horizon Zero Dawn. The improved visuals bring it a lot closer to the quality of Horizon Forbidden West and better help realize the world and design of the beautiful original concept art. Additionally, the enhanced cutscenes and motion capture allow for more dynamic storytelling and fewer awkward conversations.
Furthermore, for just $10, players also get access to the wonderful DLC, The Frozen Wilds, which, in many ways, surpasses the base game. It really is a great deal, even for those who've already beaten Horizon Zero Dawn several times before. Of course, players who didn't enjoy the original version of Horizon Zero Dawn won't enjoy its Remastered version anymore, as its gameplay, story, and mission design are kept intact. However, for those who love Horizon Zero Dawn, or those who want to try it for the first time, getting it through the $10 upgrade path is an absolute steal.
Source: PlayStation/YouTube
Horizon Zero Dawn Remastered
Franchise Horizon
Released October 31, 2024
Developer(s) Guerrilla Games , Nixxes
Publisher(s) Sony Interactive Entertainment