Horizon Call of the Mountain: Scaling New Heights in VR

Imagine stepping into the stunning world of Horizon Zero Dawn, not through a screen, but right into the thick of it. That's what Horizon Call of the Mountain offers, a jaw-dropping VR adventure that lets you become Ryas, a skilled climber exploring the treacherous peaks of the Sundom Mountains. Buckle up, adventurers, because we're diving headfirst into this immersive experience!

Climbing Your Way to Glory:

Forget elevators and ziplines; your grit and nimble fingers conquer this world. The climbing mechanics are the show's star, using the PSVR2's motion controls to mimic your real-life movements. Grip ledges, swing across ropes, and scale sheer rock faces, feeling the tension in your virtual arms with every hold. It's exhilarating, like a VR yoga class for adrenaline junkies, and the breathtaking vistas you reach make it all worthwhile.

Face-to-Face with Metal Beasts:

But this isn't no peaceful mountain hike. The iconic machines from Horizon are still roaming these lands, and you'll come face-to-face with some truly terrifying robot beasts. The sense of scale is overwhelming – towering Tallnecks dwarfing you, Snapjaws snapping at your heels – and the PSVR2's haptic feedback makes every tremor and clang feel bone-chillingly real.

Combat is like a VR archery ballet. You dodge, weave, and fire arrows at glowing weak points, feeling the bow's weight in your virtual hands and the wind whistling past your ears. It's intense, demanding quick reflexes and strategic thinking, but incredibly satisfying when you land that perfect headshot.

More Than Just Climbing:

Sure, climbing is the core, but the journey's peppered with other treats. Solve environmental puzzles that test your brainpower alongside your agility. Unravel the mysteries of the ancient Carja civilisation through Ryas' engaging story. And let's not forget the moments of awe – watching fireflies dance in the moonlight, swimming beneath crystal-clear waterfalls, or simply taking in the vastness of the world around you.

Not Without Its Hiccups:

Like any new adventure, Horizon Call of the Mountain has rough patches. Climbing, while initially thrilling, can become repetitive at times. Combat, while exciting, feels confined to designated areas, leaving you wanting more open-world encounters. And the story, though intriguing, takes a backseat to the immersive gameplay.

A VR Masterpiece with Room to Grow:

Despite its flaws, Horizon Call of the Mountain is a triumph of VR gaming. It's a technical marvel, pushing the boundaries of what VR can achieve. It's an immersive experience, transporting you to a world of danger and beauty. And it's a step forward for the Horizon series, showcasing its world in a new light.

Pros:

• Breathtaking visuals and an immersive world

• Innovative and exhilarating VR combat

• Compelling story and well-developed characters

• Sense of scale and wonder unlike anything else in VR

• Rich world with plenty of exploration and discovery

Cons:

• Story can be predictable at times

• Climbing mechanics can be finicky

• Relatively short playtime

The Verdict:

Horizon Call of the Mountain is a must-play for VR enthusiasts and Horizon fans. It's not perfect, but a thrilling, immersive journey sets a new standard for VR adventure games. So, grab your virtual climbing gear, sharpen your aim, and prepare to ascend to new heights. Remember, the climb might be challenging, but the view from the top is worth it.