LEGO Horizon Adventures, developed by Guerrilla Games and Studio Gobo and published by PlayStation, blends Sony’s Horizon universe with the charm and creativity of LEGO. It offers a playful reimagining of Aloy’s adventures, fusing open-world exploration with cooperative gameplay and a colorful brick-built aesthetic. While the concept sounds delightful on paper, its execution delivers a mix of rewarding and fun moments as well as missed opportunities.
The game’s narrative takes Aloy and familiar companions like Varl and Erend into a reimagined LEGO-fied version of Earth. The world retains the spirit of Horizon’s sprawling landscapes, with forests, deserts, and mountain ranges all beautifully reconstructed with LEGO bricks – with the creatures being a highlight among them. It’s a clever reinterpretation that captures the essence of the original games while introducing a more lighthearted tone. However, the story’s attempt to balance Horizon’s epic stakes with LEGO humor feels a bit uneven, often resulting in a tonal clash that may not fully satisfy fans of either franchise.
Gameplay-wise, LEGO Horizon Adventures builds on traditional LEGO video game mechanics, offering a mix of combat, exploration, and puzzle-solving. Each character brings unique skills to the table, adding variety to the gameplay, especially in co-op mode. The ability to switch between Aloy, Varl, and others keeps encounters fresh, and hunting down machines like LEGO-ized Watchers or Thunderjaws is a standout experience. Unfortunately, the combat lacks the depth and challenge that Horizon is known for, which might leave more seasoned players wanting more while serving as a great family-friendly intro to an experience that could otherwise be too overwhelming.
Co-op play, both online and in split-screen, is a highlight, providing a seamless way for players to share the experience. However, some issues with camera angles in split-screen mode can make certain sequences frustrating, especially in tighter spaces or during hectic battles where it becomes harder to see. The controls are generally intuitive, though there are occasional instances where platforming sections feel imprecise, leading to unnecessary retries that disrupt the flow.
Visually, the game shines, with vibrant environments and detailed LEGO models bringing Horizon’s unique world to life. The clever use of LEGO bricks in recreating familiar landmarks, like the iconic Tallnecks or Cauldrons, is a joy to witness. However, some environments can feel overly busy, making navigation slightly disorienting at times. The audio design leans heavily on Horizon’s established themes without adding much new, leaving the soundtrack feeling more serviceable than memorable or original.
One area where the game excels is in its customization options. Players can decorate Mother’s Heart with unique LEGO creations and outfit characters in playful costumes, adding a nice layer of personalization. The replayable levels with shifting challenges provide additional content and reasons to (re)play, though they don’t always offer enough variety to keep players fully engaged long-term.
LEGO Horizon Adventures offers a charming blend of two beloved franchises, with plenty of fan service for both LEGO enthusiasts and Horizon fans. While its lighthearted take on Aloy’s journey is fun in bursts, the gameplay’s simplicity and occasional small issues prevent it from reaching the heights of its inspirations. Still, for families and younger players, it provides an accessible and entertaining gateway to the Horizon universe.
Score: 7.4/10
Press Play Media 