Ever feel like you’re just button-mashing your way through combat in Horizon Forbidden West? You’re not alone! The game throws a lot at you, from nimble machines to well-armed human enemies.
Want to turn Aloy into an unstoppable force? This guide is packed with Horizon Forbidden West tips to master combat, so you can go from struggling to soaring. We’ll cover everything from weapon choices to advanced techniques.
Understanding Enemy Weaknesses
Before diving into the thick of things, remember this golden rule: knowledge is power. Horizon Forbidden West is all about exploiting enemy weaknesses.
Scanning enemies with your Focus is crucial. This highlights their vulnerable spots and elemental weaknesses.
Elemental Advantages
Different machines are susceptible to different elemental attacks. Fire, frost, shock, acid, and plasma all have their uses.
Experiment to see what works best. Some machines are weak to fire, while others might be more vulnerable to frost.
Tearing Components
Many machines have detachable components. These can be targeted for strategic advantages.
Removing armor plates exposes weak points. Detaching weapons prevents enemies from using them.
Choosing the Right Weapons
Aloy has access to a wide array of weapons. Each weapon type has its strengths and weaknesses.
Picking the right tool for the job can make a huge difference in combat. So let’s explore some options.
Hunter Bow
The Hunter Bow is your bread and butter. It’s versatile and accurate.
Use it for general combat and targeting specific components. Different arrow types add elemental damage.
Sharpshot Bow
Need precision at long range? The Sharpshot Bow is your best friend.
It excels at delivering high damage from a distance. It’s perfect for targeting weak spots.
Blast Sling
The Blast Sling is all about area-of-effect damage. It launches explosive projectiles.
Use it to deal with groups of enemies or to stagger larger machines. Experiment with different bomb types.
Tripcaster
The Tripcaster allows you to set traps. These can be incredibly effective against machines.
Lay down shock wires or explosive traps to control the battlefield. Think strategically about placement.
Ropecaster
Need to immobilize a machine? The Ropecaster is your go-to choice.
It fires ropes that can tie down enemies. This gives you time to reposition or unleash a powerful attack.
Shredder Gauntlet
The Shredder Gauntlet is a unique weapon. It throws spinning discs that return to you.
Charge up the discs to increase their damage. Catch them on the return for a damage bonus.
Mastering Aloy’s Skills
Aloy’s skill tree is extensive. Investing in the right skills can significantly enhance your combat abilities.
Focus on skills that complement your playstyle. Here are some essential ones to consider.
Valor Surges
Valor Surges are powerful special abilities. They can turn the tide of battle.
Unlock and upgrade Valor Surges that suit your combat style. Experiment to find your favorites.
Weapon Techniques
Each weapon has its own set of techniques. These are special moves that can be executed in combat.
Mastering weapon techniques adds depth to your combat. Practice using them effectively.
Hunter Skills
The Hunter skill tree focuses on improving Aloy’s ranged combat abilities. Skills like Concentration and Deep Concentration are invaluable.
They allow you to slow down time while aiming. This gives you more time to line up your shots.
Trapper Skills
The Trapper skill tree enhances Aloy’s ability to set traps. Skills like Quick Wire and Trap Limit are essential.
They allow you to deploy traps faster and carry more of them.
Warrior Skills
The Warrior skill tree focuses on melee combat. Skills like Resonator Blast and Melee Prowess are important.
They enhance Aloy’s spear attacks and allow her to deal more damage up close.
Survivor Skills
The Survivor skill tree improves Aloy’s survivability. Skills like Potent Medicine and Low Health Defense are useful.
They increase the effectiveness of healing items and provide defensive bonuses when your health is low.
Infiltrator Skills
The Infiltrator skill tree enhances Aloy’s stealth abilities. Skills like Quiet Movement and Stealth Ranged are invaluable.
They allow you to move more quietly and deal more damage from stealth.
Dodging and Positioning
Combat in Horizon Forbidden West isn’t just about dealing damage. It’s also about avoiding it.
Mastering dodging and positioning is crucial for survival. Here’s how to do it effectively.
The Importance of Dodging
Dodging is your best friend in combat. It allows you to evade enemy attacks.
Time your dodges carefully to avoid taking damage. Use the brief invincibility frames to your advantage.
Utilizing Cover
The environment can be your ally. Use cover to protect yourself from enemy attacks.
Rocks, trees, and ruins can all provide valuable cover. Use them strategically to reposition and reload.
Maintaining Distance
Staying at a safe distance can be advantageous. It gives you more time to react to enemy attacks.
Use your ranged weapons to deal damage from afar. Close the distance only when necessary.
Advanced Combat Techniques
Once you’ve mastered the basics, it’s time to delve into advanced combat techniques. These techniques can give you a significant edge in battle.
Here are a few to try:
Resonator Blasts
Aloy’s spear can charge up with energy. This energy can be released in a Resonator Blast.
Hit an enemy with a fully charged spear, then shoot the resonator with an arrow. This deals massive damage.
Knockdown Power Attack
After dodging an attack, Aloy can perform a powerful knockdown attack. This can stagger enemies.
Use this opportunity to follow up with additional attacks. It’s great for creating openings.
Valor Surge Combos
Combine Valor Surges with other combat techniques for maximum effectiveness. For example, use the Ranged Master Valor Surge to enhance your ranged attacks.
Then unleash a barrage of arrows on your enemies. Experiment with different combinations.
Quick Weapon Switching
Quickly switching between weapons can be crucial in combat. Use the weapon wheel to switch weapons on the fly.
This allows you to adapt to different situations. It also lets you exploit enemy weaknesses more effectively.
Farming Resources and Upgrading Gear
To truly master combat, you need to have the right gear. Farming resources and upgrading your gear is essential.
Here’s how to do it efficiently.
Gathering Resources
Resources are scattered throughout the world. Collect them as you explore.
Look for plants, machine parts, and other valuable items. These are needed to craft ammo, potions, and upgrades.
Hunting Machines for Parts
Machines are a valuable source of resources. Hunt them down and harvest their parts.
Target specific components to obtain the resources you need. Use your Focus to identify valuable parts.
Upgrading Weapons and Armor
Upgrading your weapons and armor is crucial. It increases their effectiveness.
Visit workbenches to upgrade your gear. You’ll need resources to perform upgrades.
Practice and Experimentation
The most important thing is to practice and experiment. Try out different weapons, skills, and techniques.
Find what works best for you. Don’t be afraid to make mistakes.
Every battle is a learning opportunity. The more you play, the better you’ll become.
Conclusion
Mastering combat in Horizon Forbidden West takes time and effort. But with these Horizon Forbidden West tips to master combat, you’ll be well on your way to becoming an unstoppable force. Remember to exploit enemy weaknesses, choose the right weapons, and master Aloy’s skills. Don’t forget the importance of dodging, positioning, and advanced techniques.
What are your favorite combat tips for Horizon Forbidden West? Share your experiences and strategies in the comments below!
FAQ Section
Q: What’s the best weapon to use in Horizon Forbidden West?
A: There’s no single “best” weapon. It depends on your playstyle and the enemy you’re facing. The Hunter Bow is a good all-around choice, while the Sharpshot Bow excels at long-range precision. Experiment with different weapons to find what works best for you.
Q: How do I effectively use Valor Surges?
A: Valor Surges are powerful abilities that can turn the tide of battle. Choose Valor Surges that complement your playstyle. Activate them at the right moment to maximize their impact. Experiment with different Valor Surge combos to find what works best for you.
Q: What’s the best way to farm resources in Horizon Forbidden West?
A: The best way to farm resources is to explore the world and collect everything you find. Hunt machines for parts, and target specific components to obtain the resources you need. Complete side quests and errands to earn additional resources.
