Sony and Guerrilla Games will be conducting the second closed beta test for the co-op action game "Horizon Hunters Gathering" from May 22nd to 25th, 2026. Registration for participation on PlayStation 5 and PC is now open via the PlayStation Beta Program.
The second test run expands the existing framework with substantial content. In addition to two new playable hunters, the developers are integrating a story episode, a new area, and additional difficulty levels for existing modes for the first time.
While the focus remains on cooperative gameplay between three people, Guerrilla Games introduces NPC support with this version. The studio is thus responding to the Demand for solo optionsThe hunters Rem, Sun or Axle can now be used as AI companions to fill out teams or support individual players in the "Episode" and "Machine Incursion" modes.
New hunters and locations in Ashwater Valley
With the addition of Ensa and Shadow, the roster of playable hunters grows to five. Ensa is described as an Oseram smuggler with a mercenary background, while Shadow, a Carja agent, commands a controlled stalker machine. This specialization in machine companions represents an interesting mechanical departure from the previous gameplay, which primarily focused on direct ranged and melee combat.
The new area, Breakers' Bounty, complements the existing Devil's Thirst region. Geographically, the area consists of dense jungle and ruins bordering a desert region. Within this context, the narrative episode serves to introduce the threat of machine hordes to Ashwater Valley and to organically introduce new gameplay mechanics.
New difficulty levels for a greater challenge
For players who found the first test too challenging or too easy, the update offers a wider selection. The "Machine Incursion" mode receives "Hard" and "Merciless" difficulty levels. Guerrilla Games is deliberately aiming for maximum challenge here through combinations such as simultaneously fighting a Thunderjaw and a Ravager. The "Cauldron Descent"—the equivalent of a dungeon or raid—is expanded with additional rooms that require closer coordination between hunters.
Another important component is the newly implemented training modules. These serve as onboarding tools and are designed to make the complexity of the various systems more accessible. The fact that Sony is introducing AI partners despite its focus on co-op suggests that player engagement is to be ensured even outside of established groups.
"Horizon Hunters Gathering“In this second test, the game evolves away from a pure arena slasher towards a structured live-service title with story elements. The introduction of NPC companions is the crucial added value of this test, as it massively lowers the barrier to entry for solo players.”
