Guerrilla Games released a teaser trailer for the second closed test of Horizon Hunters Gathering, a third-person action-adventure monster-hunting game [1].

The move signals a critical phase in the development of the spinoff title as Sony Interactive Entertainment seeks player feedback on its co-op mechanics. By utilizing closed tests, the developer can refine the gameplay loop before a full commercial release on PlayStation 5 and PC [1, 2].

The upcoming playtest is scheduled to run from May 22 to May 25, 2024 [2, 3]. While the window for participation is brief, the test is intended to generate interest and gather data on the game's performance across different platforms [2].

Access to the test remains limited. A GameSpot author said the test is technically open to anyone, though players must be lucky to actually get in [5]. Other reports indicate that registration for the event is handled via the PlayStation Beta Program [6].

This project marks a departure from the traditional single-player structure of the main Horizon series. The game focuses on cooperative monster hunting, placing an emphasis on teamwork, and strategic combat against the series' signature mechanical creatures [1].

IGN said the title is an upcoming third-person action-adventure monster hunting game developed by Guerrilla Games [1]. The developer continues to iterate on the experience through these phased playtests to ensure the multiplayer elements are stable and engaging for a wide audience [2, 5].

“the test is technically open to anyone, though you have to get lucky to actually get in”

The transition of the Horizon franchise into the cooperative monster-hunting genre represents a strategic pivot for Sony. By implementing a series of closed tests, Guerrilla Games is mitigating the risk associated with multiplayer balancing and server stability, ensuring the spinoff does not alienate the existing fanbase while attempting to capture the market currently dominated by titles like Monster Hunter.