Horizon Zero Dawn Achievement Guide

Unlock the full potential of Horizon Zero Dawn with our comprehensive Achievement Guide! Whether you're a seasoned hunter or a newcomer to the post-apocalyptic world of Aloy, this guide will walk you through every step needed to conquer the game. From mastering the General Achievement Walkthrough to ensuring you've overridden all Tallnecks and Cores, we've got every angle covered. Chase the thrill of earning Blazing Suns at all Hunting Grounds and documenting every Machine in the game. Ready to become a Horizon Zero Dawn legend? Dive into our guide and take your quest to the next level!

General Achievement Walkthrough

Unlocking achievements in Horizon Zero Dawn is one of the most rewarding parts of the game. We've put together this guide to help you nab every trophy and feel like a true warrior of the wild. Below is a detailed walkthrough to ensure you don't miss a thing. Let’s get started!

Main Story Achievements

These are pretty straightforward. Just play through the main quests, and you’ll naturally earn these achievements:

• Followed on All-Mother's Footsteps - Just finish the main quest “The Womb of the Mountain.”
• Crashed the Eclipse Network - Complete “The Grave-Hoard.”
• Discovered the Truth - Finish “The Mountain That Fell.”
• Ended the War Machine Threat - End the main storyline by completing “The Looming Shadow” and “The Face of Extinction.”

Side Quest Achievements

To get these achievements, focus on completing side quests and errands. They offer great backstory and extra rewards:

• Saved Meridian from Its Foes - Finish all the major side quests in Meridian.
• Aided the Defectors - Help the outcasts Wynert, Morlund, and the other defectors.

Collectibles Achievements

You don’t have to hunt down every single collectible for these, but collecting most will help:

• All Metal Flowers found - Metal Flowers are scattered across the map. Gather at least 30.
• All Banuk Figures found - Track down Banuk Figures; they’re hidden in the wild.
• All Vantages found - Look for Glitch Vantages to piece together the old world’s story.

Combat Achievements

Show off your skills in combat by achieving these:

• Headshot 30 Human Enemies - Use your bow to get headshots on human adversaries.
• Tore off 10 components - Aim at specific parts of machines to rip them off.
• Downed 23 Grazer dummies - Find and topple Grazers scattered around the various villages.

Miscellaneous Achievements

Some achievements are just about exploring everything the game has to offer:

• First Tallneck Overridden - Find a Tallneck and climb it to reveal parts of the map.
• Performed an Override on a Stormbird - Stormbirds are giant, so make sure you’re prepared to take control.
• Used a Mount to Overrun 10 Machines - Mount a Strider, Broadhead, or Charger and run down other machines.

Hints and Tips

While chasing these achievements, keep these pointers in mind:

• Save Often: Always save your game, especially before heading into combat or hunting collectibles.
• Upgrade Your Gear: Visit merchants to buy better weapons and outfits.
• Craft Wisely: Always have enough arrows and healing items before taking on bigger machines.
• Explore Thoroughly: The world of Horizon Zero Dawn is full of secrets and hidden treasures. Take your time to explore.

Conclusion

Keep this guide handy as you play through Horizon Zero Dawn. Whether you’re a completionist or just aiming to nab a few extra trophies, this walkthrough will help you on your journey. Enjoy the hunt, and may the odds be ever in your favor!

All Tallnecks Overridden

In Horizon Zero Dawn, Tallnecks are the colossal, giraffe-like machines that roam certain parts of the game’s map. Overriding Tallnecks not only gives you a sweeping view of the surrounding area but also reveals large chunks of the map. There are five Tallnecks to override in the game. Let’s break down where to find each one and how to take control of them.

Tallneck: Devil’s Thirst

Location: This Tallneck is located just north of Mother's Crown, in the Devil’s Thirst region.

Strategy:

1. Climb Up: Find a nearby ruined building to climb. Look for yellow beams and ledges you can grab.
2. Jump On: Once you’re close, time your leap to land on the Tallneck’s back.
3. Override: Climb to the top and override it by holding the Triangle button.

Tallneck: Carja Territory

Location: South of Meridian, in the heart of Carja territory. Head to the city, and then go south into the forested area.

Strategy:

1. Clear the Area: There are usually some hostile machines near the Tallneck. It’s wise to take them out first.
2. Climb Up: There’s a rocky hillside perfect for climbing right next to the Tallneck’s path.
3. Override: Once on its back, climb to the head and initiate the override.

Tallneck: Sun-Steps

Location: This one wanders around the desert areas east of the Carja territory, specifically around the eastern edge of Sun-Steps.

Strategy:

1. Remove Hostiles: Nearby machines can cause trouble. Clear them out first.
2. Tallneck Route: Wait for the Tallneck to approach a rocky formation or a tall structure you can climb.
3. Get Up There: Leap from the structure onto its back and climb to the top to override it.

Tallneck: Spearshafts

Location: The Spearshafts area, located northeast of Meridian, is where you’ll find this Tallneck.

Strategy:

1. Climb Ruins: Again, starting with clearing the area is helpful. Look for old ruins near the Tallneck.
2. Leap of Faith: Make a jump from the top of a ruin when the Tallneck passes by.
3. Override: Climb to the top and override the Tallneck.

Tallneck: Copper Deeps

Location: This Tallneck can be found in the south-western part of the map, in a swampy area known as the Copper Deeps.

Strategy:

1. Hidden Threats: Watch out for Snapmaws and other dangerous machines in the swamp.
2. Use the Environment: Look for fallen trees and boulders to gain height.
3. Final Climb: Jump onto the Tallneck’s back and override it to reveal the map.

Tips for Overriding Tallnecks

• Patience: Each Tallneck follows a looped path. Find the best jump-off point and wait for the right moment.
• Stealth: Use stealth to avoid additional confrontations with machines around the Tallnecks.
• Replay: Miss a jump? No worries, you can follow the Tallneck and try again when it loops back around.

Overriding all the Tallnecks not only helps in exploring the map but also satisfies the need for completion. Go forth, climb high, and conquer!

Remember, each Tallneck has its quirks, but with this guide, you’re all set up to override them like a pro. Have fun exploring!

All Cores Overridden

In Horizon Zero Dawn, All Cores Overridden is one of the more challenging achievements you'll want to complete if you're aiming for 100% of the game. Not only is it exciting to conquer these tough areas, but it also provides you with control over some of the most dangerous machines in the game. Here’s a breakdown on how to tackle each core location.

What Are Cauldrons?

Cauldrons are mysterious underground dungeons filled with machines and advanced technology. Completing a Cauldron means reaching the core and overriding it, which unlocks the ability to override new types of machines in the wild.

There are a total of five cauldrons in the game you need to override to earn the All Cores Overridden achievement:

1. Cauldron SIGMA
2. Cauldron RHO
3. Cauldron XI
4. Cauldron ZETA
5. Cauldron EPSILON (Included in The Frozen Wilds DLC)

Cauldron SIGMA

• Location: North of Mother's Crown
• Recommended Level: 8
• Challenges: Watchers and scrappers inside, then a boss fight against a Fire Bellowback.

Tips

• Use stealth attacks on Watchers and Scrappers.
• Concentrate on Fire Bellowback's cargo sac to deal heavy damage.

Cauldron RHO

• Location: North-East of Daytower
• Recommended Level: 20
• Challenges: Stalkers and Shell-Walkers, then a boss fight against a Ravager.

Tips

• Set up traps before engaging the Stalkers.
• Utilize shock wires to disable the Ravager temporarily.

Cauldron XI

• Location: West of Mother's Crown
• Recommended Level: 18
• Challenges: Corruptors and lots of Spitter machines.

Tips

• Clear out Spitters by staying on the move.
• Use fire arrows against the Corruptors for effective damage.

Cauldron ZETA

• Location: North of the Grave-Hoard
• Recommended Level: 20
• Challenges: Toughest of all. Glinthawks and Longlegs, then you face a Thunderjaw.

Tips

• Ropecaster is your friend; pin down the Glinthawks.
• Remove the Thunderjaw's Disc Launchers and use them against it.

Cauldron EPSILON (The Frozen Wilds DLC)

• Location: Deep within The Cut region.
• Recommended Level: 30
• Challenges: Frostclaws and Scorchers.

Tips

• Keep an eye on your surroundings as these machines are more aggressive.
• Use Freeze and Fire weapons to exploit enemies' vulnerabilities.

General Tips for All Cauldrons

• Stock up on healing items and traps.
• Preparation is key: know the weaknesses of the machines you’ll be facing.
• Use your Focus to scan enemies and plan your strategy ahead of time.
• Keep moving during boss fights to avoid heavy damage.

Strategy Recap

To override all cores and get the All Cores Overridden achievement, ensure you’re well-prepared before entering each Cauldron. Scan enemies, set up traps, and leverage environmental tools at your disposal.

By mastering these underground dungeons, not only will you earn the trophy, but you'll also gain the ability to override a myriad of machines, making Aloy an even more formidable hunter in the wilds.

Good luck, brave hunter!

Blazing Suns at All Grounds

In Horizon Zero Dawn, the Blazing Suns are the highest level of achievement you can earn at the Hunter's Lodge Trials. These trials test your combat skills and ingenuity, offering significant rewards and bragging rights. In this guide, we'll break down each Hunting Ground and provide tips to score Blazing Suns in all trials.

Nora Hunting Grounds

1. Parts Alone Trial

• Objective: Tear off machine parts using Tearblast arrows.
• Time Limit for Blazing Sun: 1:30

Tips

• Stock up on Tearblast arrows before starting.
• Prioritize shooting components that are easily detachable, like the Blaze canisters on the backs of Grazers.
• Use Focus (R3) to identify weak points quickly.

2. Logpile Trial

• Objective: Kill machines using logpiles.
• Time Limit for Blazing Sun: 2:00

Tips

• Lure the machines (usually Grazers) under the piles by whistling or shooting near them.
• Trigger the logpile when a group of machines is under it for maximum efficiency.
• Use stealth to position yourself without alerting the machines too early.

3. Blast Wire Trial

• Objective: Trip machines with Blast Wires.
• Time Limit for Blazing Sun: 3:00

Tips

• Place your Blast Wires strategically on the paths of multiple machines.
• Aim for choke points where machines often travel together, like the narrow passages between grazing areas.
• Be patient and herd the machines towards your traps if necessary.

Valleymeet Hunting Grounds

1. Watch Out Trial

• Objective: Kill Watchers silently.
• Time Limit for Blazing Sun: 1:00

Tips

• Equip skills like Silent Strike to take down Watchers in one hit.
• Use tall grass and other cover to approach Watchers undetected.
• Speed is critical, so avoid getting caught in prolonged engagements with other machines.

2. Pace Trial

• Objective: Kill machines while sliding or jumping.
• Time Limit for Blazing Sun: 1:30

Tips

• Practice shooting accurately while moving. Aim for weak points like canisters or eyes.
• Combine sliding and focus to slow down time for better shots.
• Use fire arrows to ignite Blaze canisters for a high-damage result.

3. Tie Down Trial

• Objective: Tie down Trampler machines.
• Time Limit for Blazing Sun: 1:30

Tips

• Use the Ropecaster to tie down Tramplers quickly. Aim for the legs.
• Make sure to tie them down completely to immobilize them entirely.
• Once tied, finish off the Tramplers with heavy attacks or precision shots to their weak points.

Greatrun Hunting Grounds

1. Freeze Trial

• Objective: Freeze Bellowbacks and destroy components.
• Time Limit for Blazing Sun: 1:30

Tips

• Use Freeze Bombs to quickly freeze the Bellowbacks.
• Once frozen, aim for their cargo sacs for heavy damage.
• Keep moving to avoid their attacks while focusing on their weak spots.

2. Shock Trial

• Objective: Shock and tether Glinthawks and remove components.
• Time Limit for Blazing Sun: 2:00

Tips

• Shock Bombs or Shock Wires can incapacitate Glinthawks temporarily.
• While shocked, knock off their key components like Freeze Sacs.
• Focus on precision to make the most of their downed time.

3. Firefight Trial

• Objective: Set machines on fire and keep them burning.
• Time Limit for Blazing Sun: 3:00

Tips

• Use Fire Arrows to ignite machines with a high chance of burning.
• Target Blaze canisters for an immediate, high-damage burn effect.
• Aim to keep multiple machines burning simultaneously to maximize your effectiveness.

Wrap-Up

Earning Blazing Suns at all Hunting Grounds is a testament to your mastery of the game's mechanics and your strategic thinking. With these tips and some practice, you'll be blazing through those trials in no time. Remember to upgrade your weapons and skills to give yourself the best chance at success. Happy hunting!

All Machines Catalogued

In Horizon Zero Dawn, an important achievement/trophy you can earn is “All Machines Catalogued.” This task requires you to scan every type of machine in the game. Here's a comprehensive list and some helpful tips to make sure you can tick this achievement off your list.

Why It Matters

Scanning every machine not only nets you this achievement but also gives you crucial info about their weaknesses and loot. Trust us, you don't want to miss out on this!

How to Scan Machines

1. Equip Your Focus: Press R3 to activate Aloy’s Focus.
2. Aim at the Machine: Point your cursor at the machine until it highlights.
3. Hold R2: Once it’s highlighted, hold R2 to scan. You’ll see a readout of the machine's info.

Machine List

Here is the full list of machines you need to scan:

Small Machines

1. Watcher
2. Strider
3. Grazer
4. Scrapper
5. Lancehorn
6. Tallneck
7. Broadhead
8. Charger
9. Glinthawk

Medium Machines

10. Sawtooth
11. Stalker
12. Longleg
13. Shell-Walker
14. Bellowback

Large Machines

15. Ravager
16. Snapmaw
17. Trampler
18. Behemoth

Giant Machines

19. Thunderjaw
20. Stormbird
21. Rockbreaker
22. Fireclaw
23. Frostclaw
24. Scorcher

Corrupted Machines

25. Corrupted Watcher
26. Corrupted Scrapper
27. Corrupted Grazer
28. Corrupted Bellowback
29. Corrupted Fire Bellowback
30. Corrupted Glint Hawk

Apex Predators

31. Deathbringer
32. Corruptor

Pro Tips for Scanning

1. Stay Hidden: Some machines can get hostile if you’re too close. Use tall grass and keep your distance.
2. Revisit Areas: Some machines only appear in certain regions. Make sure you explore the entire map.
3. Save Often: Prevent setbacks by saving your game frequently.

Finding Rare Machines

• Tallnecks: These gentle giants show up in specific locations and aren't hostile, making them easy to scan.
• Thunderjaws and Stormbirds: Typically located in challenging areas like The Frozen Wilds. Be prepared for a tough fight.
• Deathbringers and Corruptors: Mainly found in story missions. Keep your focus handy during those encounters.

Completing this achievement not only brings you closer to 100% game completion but also ensures you have a deeper understanding of all the enemies you’ll face. Happy hunting and scanning!