Sony Interactive Entertainment is changing the direction of Horizon Hunters Gathering after private testing revealed significant issues with the current design. The studio is removing the planned live service elements to focus on a more traditional co-op multiplayer experience with a story mode. This pivot matters because it signals a major shift in scope and suggests the game may face a tighter timeline for completion. Players who followed the project's earlier announcements should expect a different product than what was initially promised.
Sony strips live service features from Horizon Hunters Gathering
The overhaul is being led by Guerrilla Games in collaboration with Sony Interactive Entertainment. The team is restructuring the project to deliver a smaller, more focused experience rather than the expansive live service model originally intended. This change aims to address the negative feedback received during internal playtests. The goal is to create a cohesive co-op adventure that can be completed within a reasonable timeframe.
According to reports from Bloomberg, the development team has been given a deadline of December to prove the game's viability to executives. Staff members must demonstrate that the revised version meets quality standards and justifies continued investment. Many employees assigned to Horizon Hunters Gathering are being moved to other projects while the current work is evaluated. This personnel shift indicates that the game's future is not yet guaranteed and depends on meeting specific milestones.
The revised scope includes a story mode integrated with co-op multiplayer, replacing the previously planned ongoing live service components. This approach allows for a more contained narrative experience without the pressure of maintaining long-term content updates. The project will undergo further review at the end of the year to determine if it remains in active development. Until then, the game exists in a state of transition with uncertain final release details.
Source: VideoGameChronicles
