Lego Horizons: A Brick by Brick Reimagining of Zero Dawn
In a bold experiment, Lego has brought the world of Horizon Zero Dawn to life in a way that's both delightful and unexpected. The game, aptly titled Lego Horizons Adventures, turns the serious sci-fi narrative into an accessible adventure suitable for younger audiences.
The story centers around Aloy's journey, with her iconic bow becoming a prominent symbol of determination and skill. But this time around, she's joined by a cast of quirky and lovable characters. The game maintains its core themes while injecting humor and optimism, making for a more family-friendly experience.
Combat has been reimagined to be both accessible and engaging. Aloy's Focus system allows players to scan for weak points, while the targeting system has been simplified but still retains enough challenge to keep things interesting. Each playable character brings their own unique toolset to the table, creating opportunities for genuine teamwork in co-op play.
The game's visuals are a true highlight, committing fully to the brick aesthetic and constructing a world that looks like it could be built with actual Lego pieces. The lighting system is particularly noteworthy, making every scene look like it was photographed for a Lego catalog.
However, while the game shines in its visuals and gameplay, it stumbles on mission structure. Linear paths often lead to combat arenas, missing out on meaningful exploration or puzzle-solving that's typically present in both Lego and Horizon games.
In conclusion, Lego Horizons Adventures offers a solid construction of Zero Dawn, even if it doesn't reinvent the wheel. With its delightful characters, engaging gameplay, and spectacular visuals, this game is sure to entertain families and fans looking for a lighter take on their favorite world. Approach with measured expectations and you'll find a joyful experience that's equal parts fun and satisfying.
Rating: 3.5/5
Recommendation: Families seeking a co-op adventure or Horizon fans curious about a lighter take on the game will find Lego Horizons Adventures to be an enjoyable experience. Just be aware of the limitations, and you'll likely have a blast rebuilding Aloy's journey one brick at a time.