A recent Horizon Zero Dawn's Shield Weaver armor was the game's most powerful outfit, by far, with players unlocking it through extensive exploration of the game's open world.

Following the previous game, Horizon Forbidden West will allow gamers to explore a brand-new part of the series' post-apocalyptic world. The titular western region will introduce a new cast of ing characters and various new types of machines. Ranging from the serpentine Slitherfang to the massive Shellsnapper, Horizon Forbidden West will feature a host of new mechanical monsters both ive and aggressive. In order to overcome these new threats, Aloy will gain access to innovative tools like the Pullcaster grappling hook and the Shieldwing glider. A recent Horizon Forbidden West gameplay exploration gave players a closer look at many of these new additions ahead of the title's February 18 release.

Related: Horizon Forbidden West Won't Have Multiple Endings, Confirms Head Writer

As reported by Push Square, the recent Horizon Forbidden West gameplay preview showed off an interesting detail about the returning Shield Weaver armor. Obtained through Horizon Zero Dawn's Ancient Armory side quest, the high-tech piece of gear featured an energy shield that made Aloy practically invulnerable in combat. While Aloy continues to wear the Shield Weaver armor in Horizon Forbidden West, the item's description reveals that the outfit is no longer a combat powerhouse. The Shield Weaver has apparently lost its power source, so the unstoppable shield has been replaced by a simple boost to ranged combat.

Horizon Zero Dawn Shield Weaver Armor

Alongside the iconic Shield Weaver armor, Horizon Forbidden West contains many other connections to its predecessor. Horizon Forbidden West's connections to Zero Dawn were recently outlined in a new story trailer, which features both new characters and returning figures from the first game. Many of Aloy's allies come back to aid her in the sequel, such as the warrior Erend, and the mysterious figure Sylens also appears to play a key role. While Sylens was an important ally in Zero Dawn, it seems that Lance Reddick's character may now be supplying Aloy's enemies with weapons and power in Forbidden West.

Horizon Forbidden West looks to follow closely in the footsteps of its predecessor, but Guerrilla Games continues to deliver innovative gameplay. The return of the iconic Shield Weaver armor helps to keep Aloy's backstory consistent, but removing the outfit's energy shield will prevent players from being overpowered. Given the franchise's penchant for side content, it is also possible that players will somehow return the Shield Weaver's original abilities in Horizon Forbidden West.

Next: All Horizon Forbidden West Confirmed Returning Characters

Horizon Forbidden West will release on PlayStation 4 and PlayStation 5 on February 18.

Source: Push Square