Guerrilla Games, best known for the Horizon series, is reportedly venturing into new territory with Horizon Online, as highlighted by Bloomberg’s Jason Schreier. Speaking on Spawn Wave’s Spawncast, Schreier discussed the franchise’s expansion while noting that Horizon 3 remains a distant prospect.

The gaming community has had mixed reactions to Guerrilla’s pivot to an online model, questioning the demand for such a shift. Schreier remarked, “Guerrilla is in a peculiar spot because they’re developing this Horizon online game, and it’s uncertain how many people are looking for that.” Alongside Horizon Online, the studio is also working on a remaster of Horizon Zero Dawn and the innovative Lego Horizon Adventures. Schreier speculated that the success—or failure—of these projects could influence Guerrilla’s commitment to the online venture.

Sony, Guerrilla’s parent company, has faced its own challenges with live service games. While some, like Helldivers 2, achieved record-breaking success, others, such as Firewalk’s Concord, have underperformed. As a result, Sony has reevaluated its live service strategy, cutting its portfolio from twelve to six projects by the 2025 fiscal year. These shifts have been accompanied by significant organizational changes, including layoffs across major studios such as Insomniac and Naughty Dog, and the closure of PlayStation’s London studio.

Despite these challenges, Guerrilla remains committed to Horizon Online. Studio director Jan Bart van Beek described the shift to multiplayer as a monumental transition for the team: “It’s a massive change for the studio, nearly as significant as when we developed the first Horizon.” He emphasized the complexities of adapting the franchise’s world to multiplayer gameplay, signaling a transformative period for the studio.

In December 2022, Guerrilla confirmed the development of its multiplayer project through a job listing, teasing new characters and an evolved artistic direction. This multiplayer effort exists alongside the sequel to Horizon Forbidden West, ensuring that the franchise’s single-player narrative, led by Aloy, continues to progress. However, Schreier cautioned fans: “Don’t hold your breath for Horizon 3... Horizon Online is their next project, not whatever the third single-player game looks like, so that one might be a ways off.”

For enthusiasts seeking more gaming updates, platforms like Ovi Games and Crazy Games offer insights into industry developments and emerging titles.

As the gaming industry grapples with the uncertain future of live service models, Guerrilla’s Horizon Online represents a pivotal moment. Whether this bold shift will cement Horizon as a long-lasting franchise or serve as a stepping stone in adapting to evolving market trends remains to be seen.