Unveiling the Uncharted Territory: Horizon Franchise vs Star Wars Jedi: Survivor

Character customization is a major selling point in action-RPGs, offering players the ability to tailor their in-game character. While some ARPGs limit customization to weapon choices, others, like Horizon Forbidden West, provide a greater range of options for self-expression.

As players progress through Horizon Forbidden West, both the main storyline and side activities, they will gradually unlock numerous customization items for the protagonist, Aloy. These items include new clothing options, headgear, and even face paint. However, there is one area of customization that the Horizon franchise has yet to explore fully. Looking to games like Star Wars Jedi: Survivor could provide inspiration for the series' next installment.

The Next Horizon Game Could Learn From Star Wars Jedi: Survivor's Hairstyle Customization

Horizon Forbidden West offers various options for customizing its main character, Aloy. One of the primary methods of customization is through the wide range of armors available in the game. These armors are divided into different categories based on rarity and grant Aloy distinct appearances. They cover both her upper and lower body, as well as her head. In Horizon Forbidden West, players can utilize a simple transmog system to transfer the abilities of one armor piece to another, allowing them to maintain their preferred visual design while benefiting from different stats. Furthermore, players can use collectible Dye Flowers to change the colors of these outfits.

In addition to armors, Horizon Forbidden West provides players with the option to customize Aloy's face through various collectible face paints. These face paints are grouped into different tribes within the game and offer players the chance to create their own unique version of the character. From simple black markings on Aloy's cheeks to elaborate, multi-colored designs across her entire face, these face paints allow for further personalization. Certain face paints even serve as nods to other PlayStation franchises, such as the unlockable God of War-inspired Mark of War face paint, which requires finding all three Totems of War.

However, Horizon Forbidden West's customization options were impressive, considering it is primarily an action-adventure game with minimal RPG elements. Nevertheless, there is always room for improvement. Across the previous two installments of the Horizon series and their respective DLC expansions, protagonist Aloy has sported the same hairstyle. While her distinctive twists and central braids contribute to her iconic appearance, it might be time for Guerilla Games to push the boundaries and allow players to customize Aloy's hair. When it comes to customizable hairstyles in action-adventure RPGs, Star Wars Jedi: Survivor sets the bar as the industry leader.

In contrast to the limited options available for Cal Kestis, the main character in the first game of the Star Wars Jedi series, Star Wars Jedi: Survivor took customization to new heights. It enabled players to create their own unique version of the Jedi Knight. Notably, the game introduced 14 different hairstyles for Cal scattered throughout the galaxy, ranging from traditional Jedi styles, such as short cuts and ponytails, to more daring choices like a full-on mullet. Additionally, Jedi: Survivor offered 12 distinct facial hairstyles for Cal. The forthcoming Horizon game would greatly benefit from drawing inspiration from Star Wars Jedi: Survivor's hairstyle customization, allowing players to personalize Aloy and create their own individualized version of the character.

Horizon Forbidden West is available now on PS4 and PS5.