Unveiling the Enigmatic War Totem in Horizon Forbidden West

Horizon Forbidden West is packed to the brim with content, as any good open-world action-adventure game should be. While the main focus lies in its extensive story missions, there is a plethora of additional experiences to delve into. From engaging minigames like Machine Strike and challenging trials in the Melee Pits to exploring expansive dungeon-like Cauldrons, there is something for every type of player. And let's not forget about the abundance of collectibles that await discovery.

Collectibles are aplenty in Horizon Forbidden West, with six distinct types to be found. Each of these categories contains around 10 unique items, scattered throughout the expansive open-world environment. While five of these collectible types can be easily located using a map, there is one elusive type that remains hidden, relying solely on luck or the aid of a guide, especially given the game's year-long existence. These hidden treasures are known as War Totems, and although they may pose a challenge to uncover, the rewards are undoubtedly worth the effort.

Horizon Forbidden West's War Totems Double as a PlayStation Easter Egg

During the extensive gameplay of Horizon Forbidden West, players will have the opportunity to come across several Easter eggs that pay homage to various gaming franchises, including both PlayStation exclusives and other series. A red fox from Ghost of Tsushima will assist Aloy in finding a shrine. LATOPOLIS will feature the recognizable LSR44 Spoor from Killzone Shadow Fall. Additionally, players may notice the iconic Triforce from The Legend of Zelda above certain doors in a few Cauldrons, offering additional loot.

Horizon Forbidden West offers a thrilling Easter egg experience with its War Totems. These unique collectibles, not indicated on Aloy's map, consist of three statues featuring beloved characters from Santa Monica's God of War. Interestingly, the first War Totem players are likely to encounter is actually the third and final one in the set. It can be found in No Man's Land, situated on the south-west shores of the Jagged Deep region. Known as the Totems of Brotherhood, one statue represents Sindri while the other portrays his brother Brok, both renowned dwarven blacksmiths.

To acquire the Totem of War, players need to venture to the Cliffwatch settlement, located in the far west of the game's map. By reaching the Greenhouse area, they will come across this totem, which beautifully depicts the God of War himself, Kratos. The statue showcases Kratos with his iconic Leviathan Axe and distinctive body markings. Lastly, the final set of War Totems can be discovered along the western coast of the Isle of Spires. Named the Totem of Youth, this statue captures the youthful appearance of Atreus, the character from the 2018 version of God of War. As a reward for collecting all three War Totems, Horizon Forbidden West grants players the Mark of War face paint. This unique cosmetic gives Aloy the recognizable white and red markings that Kratos bears on his own face.

Horizon Forbidden West is available on PS4 and PS5.