In Horizon Zero Dawn, mounts such as Striders and Broadheads serve crucial roles in both traversal and limited combat, each enhancing the player’s experience in the expansive open world of the game.

Role of Mounts in Horizon Zero Dawn

| Role | Description |
|——————-|——————————————————————————————————————-|
| Traversal | Mounts significantly expedite movement across the vast landscape. Striders, resembling horse-like machines, are particularly noted for their speed and agility, making them one of the optimal choices for quick travel early in the game. Broadheads, while similar, provide alternative options with varied benefits, catering to different traversal needs. The ability to call your mount from a distance also eliminates the hassle of backtracking across the terrain. |
| Limited Combat| Although their primary function is movement, mounts contribute to combat in a limited capacity. Players can engage in attacks using the mount’s own abilities while riding, though these attacks are generally low in damage, such as the kicks from Striders. Additionally, if players dismount, the overridden mount can continue to fight alongside them, acting as an ally during battles and providing an extra layer of strategic support. |
| Convenience | The introduction of the PSI Override ability—unlocked during the quest “The Womb of the Mountain”—allows players to override and mount these machines. This not only grants players the option to summon their mounts at will through a whistle or specific skill, but it also facilitates seamless transitions between walking and riding. Moreover, mounts are programmed to stick to paths and roads, simplifying navigation across diverse terrains. |

Characteristics of Mounts

– Striders: Known for their nimbleness and speed, Striders are the go-to mounts for players seeking efficient travel. However, they are characterized by their timid nature, making them somewhat challenging to override compared to other options. Their mobility benefits make them particularly effective for exploring the game’s large environments.

– Broadheads: Serving as an alternative to Striders, Broadheads also excel in traversal but may have different stats or combat abilities compared to other mounts. They offer players a choice, allowing for flexibility depending on the situation or player preference.

Conclusion

In essence, the mounts in Horizon Zero Dawn are integral to the gameplay experience, combining functionality in traversing the vast game world with limited combat support capabilities. While Striders stand out for speed and agility, Broadheads provide further versatility. This interplay between travel efficiency and combat assistance underscores the strategic value of mounts in both exploration and encounters, enhancing the overall immersion within the game’s richly developed environment.