Horizon's Multiplayer Spin-Off: An Epic Upgrade with a Fallout 76 Feature!

PlayStation has devoted a significant amount of time and resources over the past decade to create an impressive collection of single-player games, including The Last of Us, Marvel's Spider-Man, God of War, and the Horizon franchise. However, as PlayStation looks towards the future, it aims to shift its focus from solely single-player releases to multiplayer, live-service titles. Based on leaked information, it appears likely that franchises like Horizon will receive the multiplayer spin-off treatment.

The first game to be announced in PlayStation's entrance into the live-service market was The Last of Us Multiplayer. Despite encountering some development challenges, there is evident potential for creating an excellent gaming experience. The same can be said for the rumored Horizon multiplayer spin-off. While both Horizon Zero Dawn and Forbidden West have been praised for their compelling stories, characters, and objectives tailored for single-player experiences, there is undoubtedly enjoyment to be found in teaming up with a friend to battle Machines together. If a Horizon multiplayer spin-off is in the works, it may be beneficial to draw inspiration from one specific mechanic utilized in Fallout 76.

A Horizon Multiplayer Spin-Off Should Borrow Fallout 76's CAMP Mechanic

Fallout 76 underwent a notoriously disastrous launch, plagued with server crashes, missing promised features, and false advertising of pre-order items. Despite these setbacks, the foundation of Fallout 76 proved to be sturdy, resulting in a multiplayer game that, while still incomplete and disappointing in certain aspects, has become quite enjoyable over the past few years.

One of the standout features of Fallout 76 is its CAMP system. With a map size surpassing its predecessors, Fallout 76 offers an extensive wasteland for players to explore. Although settlements and outposts can be found scattered throughout the landscape, there are also vast stretches of barren land devoid of human life or structures. In these desolate areas, players have the option to establish a CAMP, a customizable and compact fortification. Initially, players are allowed to set up two CAMPs in Fallout 76's wasteland, but by paying extra, they can unlock up to eight additional slots.

Establishing a CAMP in Fallout 76 grants players numerous gameplay advantages. The foremost benefit is the inclusion of a workshop, enabling players to personalize their CAMP and install defensive measures to combat incoming threats. Additionally, players can set up a vending machine in their CAMP, providing an opportunity for others to purchase unwanted items. Upon completing a side quest, players can even construct a customizable shelter within their CAMP using various workshop items.

Fallout 76's CAMP feature would seamlessly integrate into a multiplayer spin-off of Horizon. While Horizon's previous maps have been populated, a multiplayer game would likely necessitate a more expansive overworld, resulting in fewer scattered settlements. In lieu of this, a CAMP-like system would empower players to create their own bases throughout the open-world. This would prove especially advantageous when cooperating to vanquish formidable Machines, as players could establish a base, enhance their weapons and armor, craft tools, and recover before engaging in an arduous battle. Given the potency of some of Horizon's Machines, the inclusion of a fallback base would enhance enjoyment and promote fairness within the game.