Sony Interactive Entertainment is preparing to host the Horizon Hunters Gathering closed playtest from February 27 to March 1, 2026, on PlayStation 5 and PC via Steam. Invitations to participate in the beta are now being distributed, according to an image shared by Wario64 on X, indicating that selected players are receiving access notifications.
The playtest invites players to join the Beta Program at PlayStation for an opportunity to “battle deadly machines in Colorado Springs” as part of the Horizon Hunters Gathering Closed Playtest. The test will be available on both PS5 and PC through Steam, expanding participation beyond console. Interested users can register through the official PlayStation website for a chance to be selected.
During the test period, participants will be able to choose between three playable characters: Sun, Rem, or Axe. The closed playtest will feature two distinct modes. Machine Incursion is described as a wave-based survival experience, challenging players to withstand escalating machine threats. Cauldron Descent, on the other hand, is presented as a multi-stage dungeon mode with changing challenges across each run.
Horizon Hunters Gathering is a cooperative action-adventure spin-off set within the Horizon franchise. Developed by Guerrilla Games and published by Sony Interactive Entertainment, the title shifts away from the mainline series’ photorealistic presentation in favor of a stylized visual approach inspired by Spider-Verse aesthetics. The game centers on tactical three-player PvE combat and session-based missions, including wave defense and dungeon crawling activities, all connected through a persistent social hub.
While a full release date has not yet been announced, the upcoming closed playtest marks the first hands-on opportunity for selected players. The limited weekend window suggests a focused technical and gameplay evaluation ahead of a broader launch.
