If you’re looking for something to dive into this weekend, Guerrilla Games has you covered. The studio’s upcoming PS5 console exclusive, Horizon Hunters Gathering, is holding its very first closed playtest from February 27 to March 1, giving players an early chance to explore this new co-op chapter in the Horizon universe.
The best part? You don’t need an active PS Plus subscription to participate.
How to Get In
The playtest is a closed affair, but securing a spot is straightforward—if a little dependent on luck. Interested players need to sign up for the PlayStation Beta Program, which is where invitations are being distributed for the PS5 version.
PC players can also join the fun via Steam, though the same sign-up process through the Beta Program applies. Signing up doesn’t guarantee access, but it puts you in the pool. If you miss out this time, being enrolled in the program also positions you for future test opportunities later in 2026.
What’s in the Playtest?
If selected, you’ll get hands-on with a substantial slice of the game. The test includes three playable Hunters: Axle, Rem, and Sun, each offering distinct melee or ranged playstyles. Two core game modes will be available:
- Machine Incursion: A high-intensity wave-based mission where players defend against hordes of machines, culminating in a showdown with a formidable boss.
- Cauldron Descent: A multi-stage dungeon-style trial with ever-changing rooms and hidden rewards, pushing teams to coordinate and survive.
The action takes place on the Colorado Springs map, a familiar locale for Horizon veterans. You’ll also get to explore the Gathering hub—a social space where players can customize their campsites, upgrade gear, and connect before heading back into the wilds.
A Tactical Co-Op Adventure
Horizon Hunters Gathering marks a bold new direction for Guerrilla, shifting from solitary exploration to team-based tactical action. Up to three players can squad up to defend humanity from deadly machines, choosing from a roster of heroes with unique abilities and a rogue-lite perk system that encourages build experimentation.
The game features a stylized, vibrant art style reminiscent of Fortnite, distinguishing it visually from the mainline entries while retaining the core identity of the Horizon world. It’s also fully canon, with a narrative campaign that expands the lore and introduces new mysteries and characters.
The “Horizon Curse” Strikes Again?
Online chatter has noted that Horizon Hunters Gathering‘s beta runs concurrently with Bungie’s open Marathon “server slam” weekend (February 26 to March 2). This has sparked humorous reminders of the so-called “Horizon Curse,” where Horizon releases have historically gone head-to-head with massive titles—Zero Dawn launched alongside Breath of the Wild, and Forbidden West competed with Elden Ring.
That said, with Hunters Gathering being a closed test and Marathon open to all, the overlap is unlikely to dampen enthusiasm for either game. If anything, it gives players two reasons to stay indoors this weekend.
Also, Read
- Horizon 3’s Most Requested Feature is a Game-Changer for Exploration
- Horizon 3 Fans Anticipate Big Reveal at The Game Awards
- Horizon 3 Wishlist – Fans Want Zenith Tech Meets Tribal Aesthetic in Next Sequel
So, if you’re eager to hunt machines with friends and help shape a new Horizon adventure, head to the PlayStation Beta Program and throw your hat in the ring. The servers run in scheduled windows (7-10 pm CET in Europe, 4-7 pm PST in North America), so check your time zone and prepare to rally for the hunt.