2022 is already looking jam packed with big video games, and one of the standout releases for PlayStation is Horizon: Forbidden West. Due for release in February for both PS5 and PS4, it aims to build on the foundations of its predecessor for an even bigger and better sequel. Guerrila Games has shown off the new combat mechanics, weapons, environments, and stunning graphics in the game, but many of the other details regarding the adventure remain a mystery.

While it is expected to continue gameplay elements and expand upon plot threads from Horizon: Zero Dawn, it's unclear just how much "The Frozen Wilds" DLC will factor into the sequel's storyline. While this DLC was a great addition to the base game, it isn't guaranteed that all players decided to check it out, and now there may be a concern of feeling lost if Horizon: Forbidden West ends up making specific reference to it. In shortest terms, "The Frozen Wilds" DLC is not mandatory, however, there are a few reasons why it is still a worthwhile playthrough leading into the launch of Horizon: Forbidden West.

RELATED: Every Major Change About Aloy From Horizon Zero Dawn to Forbidden West

The Frozen Wilds Isn't Mandatory To Play Before Forbidden West

Aloy wearing Banuk armor and crouching in the Frozen Wilds in Horizon Zero Dawn

As mentioned above, "The Frozen Wilds" DLC, though a fantastic addition to the game, isn't crucial to understand the overall storyline. Players who choose to simply play Horizon: Zero Dawn and then jump straight into Horizon: Forbidden West won't be losing any critical story beats, nor will they feel an awkward gap in between the games. The main reason for this is that the DLC functions more like an additional side quest to Zero Dawn that can be activated at any time after purchase.

Furthermore, the DLC brings Aloy to a completely new location that is separate from where the main action in Zero Dawn takes place. This new snowy environment has its own set of communities, made up of an entirely new cast of characters. The frigid landscape makes for a fun change to the established formula in the base game and does what any good DLC should do: it builds upon what came before and offers players a compelling new slice of content to compliment the main experience. For that reason, while not mandatory, it is still a highly enjoyable journey that fans would be wise to check out.

Forbidden West Will Focus on Zero Dawn's Storyline

horizon-forbidden-west-aloy-bow-1

Guerrila Games is likely aware that not all players ended up playing the DLC for Horizon: Zero Dawn, so it wouldn't be a wise decision to place so much emphasis on it in the sequel. The DLC will be a standalone product that stands on its own, while the main focus will be on continuing the main plot introduced in Horizon: Zero Dawn. Based upon the atmosphere and plot teases in trailers for Horizon: Forbidden West, it seems likely that so long as players have a general understanding of the first game, they should be able to follow along just fine.

It's unlikely that Forbidden West will place a heavy importance on the DLC aside from an odd reference or two. The main threat will likely come from HADES, a subfunction of GAIA introduced in the original game. The story is likely to have some twists and turns that players aren't expecting, with new machines and threats to deal with in this brand-new environment. A good sequel should move the story forward and not backtrack to older ideas, so gamers who missed out on "The Frozen Wilds" shouldn't worry in this regard.

RELATED: Horizon Zero Dawn Comics Are the Best Way to Kill Time Until Horizon Forbidden West's Release

Sylens Connects Frozen Wilds and Forbidden West

So, while "The Frozen Wilds" isn't absolutely necessary to play to understand Horizon: Forbidden West, it is still an enjoyable experience in its own right that fans should check out. That being said, there is one character from the first game that had a lot of attention in the DLC, and is already confirmed to be appearing in the sequel. Sylens, a friend of Aloy, is featured multiple times throughout the journey, talking to Aloy through her Focus device on numerous occasions.

Although he appears throughout Horizon: Zero Dawn, Sylens didn't exactly have much in the way of character development. Considering that he was one of the few familiar faces shown in the reveal trailer for Horizon: Forbidden West, though, he may factor in more heavily this time around. In "The Frozen Wilds" DLC, a bit information is provided regarding Sylens and his backstory. Players learn that he intrigued by what happened in the past and wants to learn more about his ancestors. It's also worth noting that Aloy doesn't completely trust Sylens, something which is sure to intensify in the sequel.

All in all, while the DLC isn't required to be in the loop, it is still a fun addition to the world of Horizon: Zero Dawn and Horizon: Forbidden West. The new location provides a fun spin to what came before, and the added details for Sylens and other aspects can only help players become more invested into the series' universe. Plus, with roughly two months left to wait, it wouldn't hurt for players to check out this DLC to help hold them over until Horizon: Forbidden West is finally available.

Horizon: Forbidden West will be available February 18, 2022 on PS4 and PS5.

MORE: Possible God of War Ragnarok Release Date Leaked by PlayStation