What is the max level in Horizon Zero Dawn New Game Plus?
As a long-time Horizon enthusiast with over 200 hours across multiple playthroughs, I‘m often asked: what is the maximum level you can hit in Horizon Zero Dawn‘s New Game Plus mode?
The answer: Level 110, which includes:
- Levels 1 – 60: Regular experience levels
- Levels 61 – 110: "Ghost" levels that offer no additional gameplay perks
Reaching the max level requires a serious commitment – but offers an exciting challenge for dedicated players seeking extra achievements.
Leveling Up in New Game Plus
I‘ll never forget finally taking down that epic Thunderjaw on Ultra Hard difficulty to hit Level 60 and seeing the XP bar immediately refill, signifying the start of ghost levels.
Reaching regular max level 60 in New Game Plus
Now the real grind began.
You see, ghost levels work differently than regular ones. They don‘t boost stats or unlock additional skills. But they serve as a benchmark for continuing to gain experience beyond the traditional level cap.
Ghost Level XP Requirements
I carefully tracked XP gains during my push to 110. Here‘s the breakout:
| Level Range | XP Needed per Level | Total XP Requirement |
|---|---|---|
| 61 – 80 | 75,000 | 1.5 million |
| 81 – 100 | 100,000 | 2 million |
| 101 – 110 | 125,000 | 1.25 million |
So in total, you need 4.75 million XP to go from 60 all the way to max ghost level 110!
For reference, finishing the main story delivers around 1.5 million XP. So expect some serious machine hunting, side questing, and exploration to grind those levels.
Why Reach Max Ghost Level?
"If ghost levels don‘t do anything, why bother grinding XP?"
Fair question! For most players, level 60 will provide plenty of skill flexibility. But for completionists like myself, chasing 110 offered some great end-game motivation:
- New Game+ Trophy: Unlocks "Reached Level 60 in New Game Plus"
- Personal Challenge: Pushing Aloy‘s limits to their maximum
- XP Experimentation: Testing different leveling methods
There‘s also something deeply satisfying about watching XP seamlessly roll over from 60 back to 1 as you enter the ghost level climb.
Will future DLCs or a third Horizon game raise the cap beyond 110? We can only hope!
Leveling Tips & Strategies
If you plan to push all the way, here are my tips for leveling quickly:
Unlock All Skills First
Since skill points don‘t carry over from the pre-DLC game, unlock all 34 available skills before starting New Game Plus. This lets your XP focus purely on hitting 110.
Complete All Errands & Side Content
Side quests in Horizon offer sizable XP rewards, especially longer chains like Redmaw. I‘d tackle every possible errand/side activity before moving to NG+.
Equip XP Boosting Gear
The Nora Silent Hunter armor provides a significant +10% XP gain while worn. This bonus applies across all activities!
Other potions/weaves can boost XP as well. Mix and match for maximum effect.
Target Larger Machines
The larger the machine, the more XP it grants! Prioritize apex predators like Thunderjaws, Fireclaws and Scorchers for big level bumps.
Don‘t Rush The Main Story
Pacing yourself in the main story leaves more areas, side content and diffuse missions left to complete in end-game.
The Frozen Wilds
The DLC offers a great source of high XP machines to farm even at max level. Its missions also reward more generously.
And remember difficulty settings! Ultra Hard grants vastly more XP, enabling faster leveling overall.
Parting Thoughts
Surpassing 60 and chasing ghost levels breathed exciting new life into Horizon‘s post-game. The staggering 4.75 million cumulative XP required makes for a truly monumental – but satisfying – challenge.
If you have any other questions about maxing levels or New Game Plus nuances, don‘t hesitate to ask! Now get out there, enjoy the hunt, and push Aloy to her limits.
Happy leveling! Off to take down my 50th Thunderjaw… 🏹
