After two decades of LEGO tie-in games, players have a set of expectations when a new title appears. However, LEGO Horizon Adventures seeks to redefine what fans can anticipate. While it retains some familiar elements, the game introduces significant changes to appeal to a younger audience, though it sometimes struggles with consistency in its execution.
This title adopts a more cinematic approach compared to traditional LEGO games. The usual tropes, such as collecting multiple characters and revisiting levels for hidden items, have largely been removed. Instead, LEGO Horizon Adventures is designed as a linear action-adventure, focusing less on puzzles and more on combat and exploration.
Visually, LEGO Horizon Adventures shines the brightest in the franchise. The entire game world, from characters to landscapes, consists of LEGO bricks, providing a cohesive aesthetic that enhances its visual appeal. The game’s graphics stand out among LEGO titles, achieving a look that rivals other popular games created in Unreal Engine 5, delivering vibrant colors and dynamic lighting that enhance the gameplay experience.
Rather than merely retelling the story of Horizon: Zero Dawn, this game presents a reimagined narrative aimed at a younger demographic. The plot shifts focus from global concerns to more localized village issues, making it accessible and entertaining for children. Familiar characters return but are depicted with humorous twists. For instance, Aloy becomes more lighthearted, accompanied by side characters who provide comic relief.
The gameplay simplifies some RPG elements. Each character has a skill tree, but abilities unlock automatically, reducing player agency. The game cooperates with a classic drop-in/drop-out system, enhancing accessibility, especially with the new addition of online co-op.
Combat mechanics incorporate familiar elements from the Horizon series, including scanning for enemy weaknesses, but the game streamlines character abilities and combat encounters, making it approachable for younger players. The weapons and combat systems enhance the fun, and teamwork becomes essential in co-op mode.
Despite its beautiful designs, the game faces criticism for its repetitiveness. Each of the 20+ levels follows a similar structure and lacks distinct identities, which may diminish replay value. While combat evolves, the actual act of traversing levels can feel monotonous.
Post-game activities, such as unlocking gold bricks and customizing the hub world, carry a fun, creative aspect, allowing players to enhance their surroundings. However, they often devolve into tedious checklists.
Overall, LEGO Horizon Adventures successfully translates a complex storyline for young players, blending humor and engaging gameplay mechanics. While it exhibits flaws in repetitiveness and mission structure, it remains an enjoyable experience that provides solid parental bonding opportunities. The game appeals to those looking for family-friendly content infused with creativity and adventure.
