Guerrilla Games and Sony are launching the second closed playtest for Horizon Hunters Gathering, their upcoming multiplayer expansion to the Horizon franchise. Scheduled from May 22 to May 25, 2026, the test will be available on PS5 and Steam, offering players a chance to try significant new content while providing feedback during development. Unlike open trials, participation is not guaranteed—players must register interest via the PlayStation Beta Program, where selection is randomized but influenced by user preferences.

This playtest introduces two new playable characters: Ensa, an Oseram smuggler, and Shadow, a Carja covert operative who brings a pet Stalker machine into combat. Returning characters Rem, Sun, and Axle have been refined based on feedback from the first test. The update also adds Breaker's Bounty, a new region blending jungle and desert environments, along with a playable story mission that will serve as a progression gateway in the final game.

Players can expect expanded gameplay modes, including Machine Incursion—a horde-style mode with boss fights—and Cauldron Descent, a multi-stage variant. Training modules and new difficulty settings are included to improve accessibility. NPC allies, limited to the original three hunters, will support solo players in certain modes, though the new characters won’t be available as AI teammates during this test.