Taming machines is one of the main features of Horizon Forbidden West. In this guide, we will explain how the mechanics have changed since the first part and what cauldrons are and why you need a fabricator.
Exploring the map of the Forbidden West, you may notice strange triangular symbols in different parts of the world — cauldrons. They also occupy a separate section in the quest menu.
Cauldrons are ancient factories for producing machines. Some of them may not be in the best condition, but they still function properly.
Additionally, these factories serve as unique «dungeons», at the end of which you will always face a mini-boss. The developers have tried to diversify the gaming experience, so each cauldron is different from the others.
There are five such places in total, two of which Aloy will visit during the main storyline. All cauldrons have names and are divided by recommended levels.
«Mu»: the simplest cauldron of all. You will enter it with Varl and Zo. Required level — 18;
«Iota»: by completing it, you will unlock a secret Tallneck. Required level — 22;
«Twins»: a separate cauldron, which you will also enter as part of the storyline. Required level — 30;
«Xi»: you will need to defeat a Slitherfang (a huge snake). Required level — 30;
«Kappa»: the most challenging of all. You will spend a lot of time underwater, and the final boss will be a Snapmaw. Required level — 40.
By completing cauldrons, you will receive overrides — access codes for different types of machines. This allows you to tame robots, turning them into temporary allies. The characteristics of such «friends» are determined by Aloy's skills in the «Machine Master» skill tree.
Hacked robots can significantly simplify life, but they cannot be subdued in open combat — you will have to sneak up on them.
Unlike the first part, even after completing all the cauldrons, you still won't be able to take control of any machine in the game. For particularly powerful specimens, overrides need to be created in the fabricator, which is located at Aloy's base. To do this, you will need to collect the necessary machine parts.
To make the search easier — create a task for a specific override. This will immediately show the pasture of the needed robot.