Horizon MMO 'Steel Frontiers' Announced for PC and Mobile
The world of Horizon is expanding in a massive way, but not in the direction many PlayStation fans expected. Sony and Korean developer NCSoft have officially unveiled a new massively multiplayer online role-playing game set in the post-apocalyptic universe, titled Horizon Steel Frontiers. In a surprising move, the upcoming title is confirmed for PC and mobile platforms, with no mention of a release for the franchise's home console, the PlayStation 5.
This announcement confirms long-standing rumors about an MMO project, previously known by its codename, "Project Skyline." While details are still emerging, the collaboration places the beloved franchise in the hands of a genre veteran, NCSoft, the studio behind iconic MMOs like Guild Wars and Blade & Soul. The project is being built using the powerful Unreal Engine 5, suggesting a visually rich experience designed to capture the unique aesthetic of Horizon's robotic wilds.
A New Frontier for PC and Mobile
Horizon Steel Frontiers aims to take players into the franchise's world on an unprecedented scale. While the mainline games have focused on the solitary journey of Aloy, this MMORPG will allow thousands of players to explore, craft, and battle together. Early information suggests players will get to roam the "Deadlands," a region mentioned in the existing games, and likely interact with tribes and machines both new and familiar.
The choice of PC and mobile platforms is a significant strategic decision. It signals Sony's intent to broaden the Horizon IP beyond its core console audience, tapping into the colossal global market for PC and mobile MMOs. NCSoft's deep expertise in developing and operating live-service games for these platforms makes them a natural partner for such an ambitious undertaking. This approach allows the Horizon universe to reach a new demographic of players who may not own a PlayStation console, mirroring the success of other major franchises that have found a massive following on mobile and PC.
Why Is the Horizon MMO Skipping PS5?
The decision to forego a PlayStation 5 version at launch has caught many by surprise, as Horizon is one of Sony's most important first-party properties. While no official reason has been provided, the strategy likely centers on playing to the developer's strengths and targeting the largest possible market for this type of game.
Developing an MMO is a monumental task, and focusing on PC and mobile streamlines the development process and allows NCSoft to cater to its established player base. The business model for mobile and PC MMOs, often free-to-play with in-game transactions, is a formula that has been perfected in those markets. By launching on these platforms first, Sony and NCSoft can establish a strong foundation for the game's community and live-service operations.
It remains possible that a console version could be considered later, similar to how other globally successful multi-platform titles eventually made their way to consoles. For now, however, Horizon Steel Frontiers is being built from the ground up as a dedicated PC and mobile experience.
Guerrilla Games' Focus Remains on PlayStation
While NCSoft is handling Steel Frontiers, PlayStation 5 owners and fans of Aloy's story can rest assured that the original creators, Guerrilla Games, are hard at work on core entries in the franchise. The studio has affirmed it is actively developing future Horizon titles, ensuring the single-player narrative and signature action that defined the series will continue on PlayStation.
It is widely understood that Guerrilla is developing at least two major in-house projects:
- A direct sequel to Horizon Forbidden West, which will continue Aloy's epic story.
- A separate online multiplayer project, distinct from the NCSoft MMO, that is expected to be set in the Horizon universe and built for PlayStation consoles.
This multi-pronged approach shows that the Horizon universe is not leaving PlayStation behind; rather, it's undergoing a significant expansion. Sony is leveraging the brand's strength to create different types of experiences for different audiences. The narrative-driven, single-player adventures will remain a pillar of the PlayStation ecosystem, while the MMO will serve as a gateway for a new, broader audience on PC and mobile. The future for Horizon is not just one game but a collection of diverse experiences across multiple platforms.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the new Horizon MMO game called?
The new MMORPG is officially titled Horizon Steel Frontiers.
Is Horizon Steel Frontiers coming to PS5?
No, the game has been announced exclusively for PC and mobile platforms. There is currently no information about a potential PlayStation 5 release.
Who is developing the Horizon MMO?
Horizon Steel Frontiers is being developed by the South Korean studio NCSoft, a company renowned for its work on the Guild Wars, Blade & Soul, and Lineage series of MMOs.
Is Guerrilla Games still making Horizon games?
Yes. Guerrilla Games, the creator of the Horizon series, is confirmed to be working on a direct sequel to Horizon Forbidden West as well as a separate online co-op project for PlayStation.