6 December 2024
LEGO Horizon Adventures review | Best Buy Blog

LEGO Horizon Adventures review | Best Buy Blog

LEGO Horizon Adventures brings Aloy’s world to life in a playful, brick-filled twist on Horizon Zero Dawn. It reimagines the post-apocalyptic landscapes and iconic characters for audiences of all ages. Developed by Guerrilla Games and Studio Gobo, this game transports you to a LEGO-fied version of Aloy’s journey, mixing humour, lighthearted gameplay, and signature LEGO-style adventure.

Set in a world overrun by robotic dinosaurs, the game combines the charm of LEGO with Horizon’s unique storyline. It offers something fresh and accessible for newcomers while paying homage to the original for longtime fans. Let’s take a look at how LEGO Horizon Adventures balances humour with action, bringing familiar mechanics to the forefront while delivering new and family-friendly gameplay.

LEGO Horizon Adventures details

Platform(s): PS5, Nintendo Switch and PC
Developer(s): Guerilla Games and Studio Gobo
Publisher(s): Sony Interactive Entertainment
Genre: Action-adventure
Modes: Single-player, multiplayer
ESRB Rating: E10+ (Everyone 10+)

A playful retelling of Aloy’s adventure

In LEGO Horizon Adventures, you’ll experience the familiar storyline of Horizon Zero Dawn with a playful, LEGO-inspired twist. The game swaps the somber, post-apocalyptic tone of the original for a lighthearted, family-friendly approach. Aloy’s mission to uncover the mysteries of her world and save humanity remains central, but it’s presented with humour and creativity.

Aloy’s journey takes you through colourful LEGO-built landscapes, from forests to mountains. Each setting feels true to the Horizon series while embracing LEGO’s signature charm. The simplified story captures the essence of Aloy’s journey, trading intense moments for fun twists on classic scenes. You’ll visit familiar locations like Mother’s Heart and the Sun-Domed ruins, now reimagined in bright LEGO detail.

Characters you meet along the way add humour and quirky dialogue to Aloy’s mission. Aloy, still voiced by Ashly Burch, brings a new side to her character. Cracking jokes and showing a carefree attitude not seen in the main series. This cheerful retelling makes LEGO Horizon Adventures enjoyable for both newcomers and returning fans eager for a fresh take on Aloy’s world.

To be honest, going in I wasn’t sure what to expect. I thought I’d miss the seriousness of the original. After playing Horizon Adventures, that’s not the case. There’s something refreshing about seeing Aloy just having fun—taking the weight off for once. It makes LEGO Horizon Adventures feel less like a retelling. And, more like a whole new way to explore Aloy’s story.

LEGO Horizon Adventures review

LEGO-powered combat and adventure

LEGO Horizon Adventures’ gameplay blends classic LEGO mechanics with elements from the Horizon series. This creates an accessible yet engaging experience. You control Aloy through LEGO environments, battling robotic enemies, solving puzzles, and exploring areas filled with secrets. Combat is simpler than in the main Horizon games but stays fun, with Aloy’s bow and elemental arrows adding variety.

My favourite gameplay feature is Aloy’s new gadget system. Gadgets like the Tripcaster and fire arrows allow you to target enemy weak points creatively. Environmental interactions add to the strategy; for example, using a fire arrow on dry grass can set it on fire, impacting nearby enemies. I especially enjoyed experimenting with Aloy’s gadgets. There’s something satisfying about seeing how creative I could get with each gadget, especially the fire arrow. Setting up a shot, watching it set dry grass on fire, and seeing the resulting chaos felt rewarding every time. It’s those little strategic choices that kept me engaged, even when things get hectic.

The level design is more linear than Horizon Zero Dawn, with each mission lasting around 15-20 minutes. This focused structure is great for quick play sessions. Exploration is rewarding, offering collectible studs, hidden areas, and side challenges. Completing side quests earns you gold bricks, which unlock new parts of Mother’s Heart, Aloy’s home base.

In solo or co-op mode, you’ll experience a mix of action and problem-solving. Co-op mode, where teaming up to face enemies and complete objectives, adds another layer of fun. The LEGO humour, combined with Horizon’s world, makes gameplay lighthearted and strategic—ideal for those who enjoy exploring and combat.

LEGO Horizon Adventures review

Grit and Glow of the Bricks

Graphically, LEGO Horizon Adventures stands out by combining Horizon’s iconic post-apocalyptic landscapes with LEGO’s playful style. Every environment, from the deserts to forests, is reimagined with LEGO’s distinct charm. Each setting feels vibrant and carefully detailed, capturing the essence of a true LEGO diorama. From the blocky mountains to the cleverly constructed forests, the game’s world draws you in with vibrant colours and textures. It creates an atmosphere that captures both the thrill of Horizon and the playful feel of LEGO.

The characters, too, are expertly designed in LEGO form. Aloy and other key figures from Horizon keep their unique traits but get a LEGO makeover. It adds a lighthearted element to the storytelling. You’ll recognize fan-favourite machines like Thunderjaws and Snapmaws, reimagined with LEGO pieces while maintaining their intimidating presence.

Seeing Aloy and the machines like the Thunderjaw recreated with LEGO bricks is a treat. The machines still look threatening, but the LEGO design brings a lighthearted feel that makes encounters less intimidating and somehow more fun. It’s like the game is inviting you to appreciate the creativity behind each design. Especially if you’re a fan of both LEGO and Horizon.

On the technical side, LEGO Horizon Adventures runs smoothly, with detailed lighting and shadow effects that add to each setting. The game uses subtle touches, like LEGO flame pieces for fires and animated brick-built water, to make environments feel interactive and realistic. The combination of high-quality visuals and clever design choices makes each level visually exciting and immersive, without straying from the playful tone that defines the game.

Building adventures together: co-op in LEGO Horizon Adventures

LEGO Horizon Adventures has a refreshing co-op experience, both local and online, that is the star of the show. It makes exploring Aloy’s world even more engaging. Playing with a friend, you’ll tackle puzzles, fend off robotic foes, and gather those iconic LEGO studs. All while enjoying a collaborative twist on the Horizon story. The game’s simplified controls and intuitive mechanics make it easy for players of all ages to dive in together without missing a beat.

In co-op mode, teamwork truly shines, whether you’re taking down a Thunderjaw or figuring out a tricky environmental puzzle. Each player can pick up and use a variety of gadgets, adding to the playful challenge. The game cleverly balances independent exploration and shared objectives, so both players can feel involved while making real progress together.

Using gadgets like the Hot Dog Stand turret becomes even more fun in co-op. Picture this: while your friend distracts the enemies, you set up the Hot Dog Stand to fire a flurry of hot dogs. It’s chaotic, ridiculous, and surprisingly effective—especially when you both start cheering each other on. It’s these lighthearted moments that make co-op feel rewarding, even if you’re just messing around between missions.

Co-op mode also supports easy drop-in/drop-out play, which is perfect for spontaneous sessions or quick gameplay breaks. Overall, LEGO Horizon Adventures makes playing through Aloy’s journey with a friend feel like a true adventure, blending the series’ story with the timeless charm of LEGO’s cooperative chaos.

LEGO Horizon Adventures review

LEGO Horizon Adventures offers a playful twist on a classic tale that is a ton of fun to play with a friend

LEGO Horizon Adventures delivers a cheerful, accessible version of Horizon Zero Dawn. It captures Aloy’s journey with a lighthearted tone and plenty of humour. The game balances Horizon’s familiar landscapes, characters, and robotic foes with LEGO’s playful creativity. The result feels both nostalgic and refreshingly different. Whether you’re new to Aloy’s story or a long-time fan, this LEGO take on the Horizon world feels unique and entertaining.

While simplified gameplay mechanics and shorter missions aren’t as deep as in the original, the gameplay works well here. It’s perfect for anyone seeking a fun, family-friendly experience. The co-op mode adds even more fun. You and a friend can team up, tackle puzzles, and take down LEGO-built machines together.

Pros Cons
The game brings Horizon’s world to life with a charming LEGO aesthetic. Levels follow a predictable structure, reducing exploration variety.
Co-op play adds a fun, collaborative experience to Aloy’s journey. The story is simplified, which might feel shallow for longtime fans.
Simplified mechanics make it accessible for all ages, especially younger players.
Humour and lighthearted dialogue give Aloy a new, playful personality.

Overall assessment of LEGO Horizon Adventures

Gameplay: 4/5
Graphics: 4.5/5
Sound: 4/5
Lasting appeal/Replayability: 3.5/5

Overall rating: 4/5 (80%)

For me, the mix of LEGO and Horizon felt like rediscovering a favourite with a playful spin. Setting up the Hot Dog Stand turret or customizing Mother’s Heart left me smiling at every turn. It’s the kind of game that invites you to explore, laugh, and appreciate every creative touch. If you want a relaxed adventure in Aloy’s world or a light-hearted take on Horizon, I highly recommend LEGO Horizon Adventures.

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