Exploring the Depths of Horizon Forbidden West
Intro
With a legacy that resonates deeply within the gaming universe, Horizon Forbidden West stands as a behemoth among sequels. Some might dismiss it merely as another installment, but peel back the layers, and it's clear that it deftly expands the storytelling, character arcs, and gameplay mechanics that first took root in Horizon Zero Dawn. Horizon Forbidden West is not just about lofty quests and vast open worlds; it combines intricate narratives with well-crafted gameplay that keeps players on the edge of their seats.
This article aims to unpack the various dimensions of this grand world, from its technical wizardry to the robust themes it explores. Every stone will be turned, from looking at the hardware that breathes life into this immersive experience to dissecting the character evolution that fans have come to adore.
As we embark on this expedition, our target audience—tech-savvy consumers and gamers alike—will find that every section is tailored to foster a deep comprehension of what makes Horizon Forbidden West tick in today's competitive landscape.
Without further ado, let's plunge into the technical specifications that form the bedrock of this gaming masterpiece.
Prolusion to Horizon Forbidden West
Horizon Forbidden West stands as a hallmark in the landscape of modern gaming, capturing the imagination of players worldwide. This sequel expands upon its predecessor in numerous ways, making it crucial to understand its context and depth. The importance of this section lies in framing the narrative that follows and providing insights into the game’s impactful design and direction.
Overview of the Game
Released in early 2022, Horizon Forbidden West is a continuation of Aloy’s journey, set in a lush post-apocalyptic world filled with mechanized creatures. Players step into the shoes of Aloy once again, tasked with uncovering the mysteries shrouding the land and the fate of humanity. The game introduces a myriad of new environments, such as the vibrant underwater realms and rugged mountains, extending the exploration aspect to new heights. It’s not just about battling machines; it's about strategy, resource management, and puzzle-solving, all intricately woven into the gameplay.
Visually, Forbidden West showcases cutting-edge graphics that draw players into its stunning landscapes, with intricate details that enhance immersion. The mechanics introduced not only increase the complexity of battles but also offer a sense of realism. Overall, the game builds on the strong foundation laid by its predecessor, providing players with a richer gaming experience.
Significance in the Gaming Community
The significance of Horizon Forbidden West can’t be overstated. Not only does it advance the narrative of the franchise, but it also reiterates the push towards open-world exploration in gaming. Players have recognized it as a benchmark for storytelling in video games. The emotional depth and growth of its characters, especially Aloy, resonate with many, establishing a strong connection with the audience.
Moreover, the game has sparked discussions on forums, such as Reddit, where players dissect its plot points, gameplay mechanics, and artistic choices. These conversations reflect a vibrant community that is not just concerned with gameplay but also with understanding the underlying themes that the game presents.
"Horizon Forbidden West is not just a game; it’s a cultural phenomenon that invites players to explore and reflect upon significant societal themes through its narrative."
In a time where many games struggle to retain player interest, Horizon Forbidden West stands out, proving that immersive storytelling and environmental depth can create a lasting impact. As the gaming landscape continues to evolve, this title plays a pivotal role in shaping not just the franchise it belongs to but also influencing future titles within the industry.
The Sequel's Development Journey
The journey to develop Horizon Forbidden West was akin to navigating uncharted waters—a blend of creativity, technical prowess, and a fair amount of trial and error. This section dissects the importance of the game's developmental process, highlighting the myriad influences, hurdles, and team dynamics that molded it into the masterpiece it is today. Understanding this journey not only adds layers to the gameplay experience but also showcases the underlying dedication that fuels the gaming industry.
Background and Inspirations
From its inception, Horizon Forbidden West was shaped significantly by the success of its predecessor, Horizon Zero Dawn. The development team at Guerrilla Games sought to retain the critically acclaimed aspects of the first game while expanding its universe. This involved honing in on various inspirations—from ancient cultures to burgeoning technology—which served as a foundation for both lore and gameplay.
Drawing upon diverse sources such as Native American mythology, ancient civilizations, and even modern environmental issues, the creators aimed to weave a narrative that reflected our world’s complexities. The Aloy character has roots grounded in her predecessor, embodying resilience against the backdrop of dynamic ecosystems rife with mechanical foes. The creative vision here was not merely to create a sequel, but rather to explore what it means to fight for the environment in a world where technology can both heal and harm.
Challenges Faced During Development
Creating a game of this scope comes with its fair share of challenges. One of the most significant hurdles faced during the development of Horizon Forbidden West was ensuring that the open-world design provided both depth and richness. This meant constructing environments that felt alive while also being fully interactive.
Moreover, the team was tasked with incorporating feedback from the players of the first game. This feedback proved invaluable, yet complex, given the multitude of opinions surrounding gameplay mechanics, level design, and storytelling. Balancing this wealth of player sentiment while pushing for groundbreaking features created a tension that the development team had to navigate.
The creative team at Guerrilla Games tackled the complications head-on, leaning into agile methodologies to adapt and adjust their approach as needed.
Development Team and Collaboration
Central to the successful creation of Horizon Forbidden West is the collaboration between various disciplines within the development team. Artists, writers, programmers, and designers were not barricaded in their own silos; instead, they engaged in open dialogue throughout development. This cross-pollination of ideas paved the way for innovative gameplay concepts and narrative arcs.
For instance, to enrich the world-building experience, writers collaborated closely with environmental artists to ensure the landscapes not only looked captivating but also resonated with the story’s themes. Similarly, the art team worked closely with sound designers to create an immersive environment where the audio-visual elements complemented each other seamlessly.
In essence, the soul of Horizon Forbidden West is a testament to teamwork. The insights and varied perspectives from within the team nurtured creativity and artistry, culminating in a game that feels both coherent and expansive.
Narrative Enhancements in Horizon Forbidden West
The narrative enhancements present in Horizon Forbidden West stand as significant pillars that bolster not just the storytelling facet but also the gameplay experience overall. The game diverges from traditional gaming narratives by intricately weaving characters with their environments and conflicts, leading to a more immersive experience for players. This approach keeps the audience engaged while also inviting them to reflect on deeper themes such as survival, technology’s influence on society, and personal growth.
Character Arcs and Development
In Horizon Forbidden West, the character arcs are nothing short of captivating. Aloy, the protagonist, transforms in profound ways that resonate deeply with players. Her journey reflects both her personal struggles and triumphs, with interactions showcasing her evolving relationships with allies and foes alike. Each character brings something unique to the table, adding layers to the narrative. For instance, characters like Erend and Varl are not just sidekicks; their backstories and motivations unfold alongside Aloy’s quest, making them feel integral to the overall story rather than mere support roles.
The emotional depth in these character arcs is enhanced by well-written dialogue and nuanced interactions. Players witness characters confront their fears, aspirations, and moral dilemmas. By the end of the game, one feels a genuine connection with these figures that enhances the feeling of investment in Aloy’s fight against the looming threats in this expansive world.
World-Building and Lore Expansion
The world-building in Horizon Forbidden West is as rich and detailed as a painter’s canvas, fully fleshed out with its own history, cultures, and ideologies. This intricate lore isn’t just background noise; it actively shapes player experience. Through collectibles, environmental storytelling, and cutscenes, players absorb a wealth of information that paints a vivid picture of a world recovering from collapse while grappling with the remnants of a technologically advanced past.
The game introduces various tribes, each with distinct beliefs and customs, enriching the narrative even further. These interactions force players to consider questions about technology, community, and the environment, thus elevating the game's thematic depth. The lore is crafted with care, inviting players to piece together the remnants of history while powering through the immersive landscapes.
Overall, the narrative enhancements in Horizon Forbidden West serve not simply as storytelling devices but as core elements that invigorate gameplay and deepen player immersion. This intricate storytelling approach undoubtedly marks a new era in gaming narratives, where players are encouraged to not only play but experience a living tapestry of character development and expansive lore that remains with them long after the gameplay ends.
Gameplay Mechanics and Innovations
Gameplay mechanics and innovations are the backbone of any successful video game, and Horizon Forbidden West is no exception. This game not only elevates its gameplay with fresh elements, but also deepens the overall experience by incorporating more intricate systems than its predecessor. In this section, we will delve into three key areas that reflect the evolution of gameplay in this sequel: combat systems and strategies, exploration and puzzle elements, and customization options for players.
Combat Systems and Strategies
Combat in Horizon Forbidden West is a thrilling mixture of strategy and action. The game introduces new weapons and improved equipment, allowing players to devise varied strategies in battles. Aloy’s arsenal now includes the ability to use elemental ammo types, such as electricity or fire, which adds a layer of tactical depth to encounters. Adapting to the diverse weaknesses of the robotic foes requires keen observation and on-the-fly planning.
- Ranged Combat: The Riptide bow boasts an advanced targeting system, letting players switch between multiple ammunition types like the devastating Spike and the incapacitating Traps.
- Melee Combat: With the addition of enhanced melee movements, players can engage in close combat more fluidly. Aloy can now chain combos and utilize powerful finishes that can turn the tide in intense skirmishes.
This balance between ranged and melee combat not only fosters creativity but also keeps players on their toes, constantly adapting their strategies based on the enemy type.
Exploration and Puzzle Elements
The vast, open-world nature of Horizon Forbidden West pushes players to not only explore but also engage with the environment in meaningful ways. The game is rich with hidden secrets, ancient ruins, and vibrant ecosystems that invite thorough investigation.
- Climbing Mechanics: Players can traverse vertical landscapes using a streamlined climbing system. Recognizable and colored grips guide exploration, making it feel intuitive, yet rewarding.
- Puzzle Mechanisms: Players will encounter intricate puzzles scattered throughout the game. For example, activating ancient machines often requires manipulating various mechanisms, calling upon both logical thinking and skill to navigate challenges.
Solving these puzzles isn't merely a side quest; it's often tied to the lore and bigger narrative, blending storytelling and gameplay in ways that make exploration all the more enticing.
Customization Options for Players
Customization is paramount in shaping a player's unique experience, and Horizon Forbidden West certainly recognizes that. The sequel enhances the equipment and skill trees to deepen player investment.
- Skill Trees: Aloy can acquire new abilities from a detailed skill tree that branches into categories like warrior, hunter, and survivor. This lets players tailor Aloy's capabilities to their playstyle.
- Gear Modifications: The ability to modify weapons and armor provides players a chance to enhance their gear with specific bonuses, be it for improved stealth or increased damage.
These customization options empower players, making them feel like architects of their own journey, encouraging them to explore different styles of play while navigating the game world.
"In a world full of mechanical beasts, your strategy and choices define your survival."
Technological Advancements in Gameplay
Technological advancements have become a cornerstone of modern gaming, affecting how players interact with games and experience them in a fundamental way. In the context of Horizon Forbidden West, these advancements not only enhance gameplay but also shift the boundaries of what players can expect from an immersive world.
Graphics and Visual Fidelity
Graphics have come a long way since the days of pixelated sprites and 8-bit soundtracks. In Horizon Forbidden West, the leap in graphics and visual fidelity is nothing short of astounding. The developers have harnessed the power of the PlayStation 5, utilizing its advanced hardware to render stunning visuals that breathe life into the expansive landscapes filled with unique flora and fauna. The details matter; sunlight filters through the leaves, creating ambient light effects that can make a player's heart skip a beat.
The character designs, too, are meticulously crafted. Aloy, the protagonist, sports a range of outfits that not only serve the gameplay but also reflect the cultures within the game. Whether it's the intricate beading of her garments or the vivid palettes, each piece tells a story. This focus on detail creates a richer, more believable world.
For players, high-end graphics mean more than just pretty pictures. It means smoother gameplay, reduced lag, and a more immersive experience. Those who indulge in the game on 4K televisions will find themselves lost in its beauty, feeling as if they really are journeying through a post-apocalyptic landscape where nature has reclaimed the earth.
"In gaming, the visuals can transport players into a different reality, making every moment feel exhilarating."
A few notable features that ramp up the visual experience include:
- Dynamic Weather Systems: Clouds roll in, rain falls, and the world reacts in real-time.
- Day/Night Cycles: The shift in lighting dramatically changes the atmosphere, offering both aesthetic beauty and gameplay challenges.
- Enhanced Decals and Textures: High-resolution textures make environments more lifelike.
This commitment to visual excellence invites players to explore every nook and cranny, unveiling the secrets hidden in the landscape, fostering a deeper connection to the game world.
Audio Design and Immersion
Sound design often gets overshadowed by graphics but plays an equally important role in creating a compelling experience. In Horizon Forbidden West, every sound, from the rustling leaves to the distant roars of mechanical beasts, is designed to draw players deeper into the narrative. The audio landscape becomes a character in its own right, guiding players and hinting at what lies ahead.
The soundtrack, composed by an expert team, blends orchestral swells and ambient sounds that adjust as the player progresses through the game. Whether you are in the company of a gentle breeze or amidst the chaos of battle, the audio serves to heighten emotional responses, enhancing tension or providing moments of tranquility.
Specific audio elements that add layers to the experience include:
- 3D Spatial Audio: Sounds are directionally filtered, making it easier to locate enemies or identify origins of strange noises.
- Voice Acting: Top-notch voice performances characterize the game, paving the way for rich storytelling and believable interactions.
- Environmental Sounds: The chirping of insects, distant animal calls, and the creaks of ancient machines create a vibrant soundscape that feels alive.
Critical Reception and Impact
In analyzing Horizon Forbidden West, it is crucial to understand the role of critical reception and its broader impact. This section offers insight into how the game was received by various audiences, including industry critics and everyday players. The way a game is reviewed can shape its ongoing legacy, influence future developments, and affect player engagement. Positive feedback can enhance sales figures and establish a franchise, while criticism can stimulate developers to address concerns and improve future installments.
Reviews and Industry Feedback
Upon release, Horizon Forbidden West garnered a wave of acclaim from gaming critics across the board. Publications like IGN and GameSpot offered high praise for its expansive world, intricate storytelling, and refined gameplay mechanics. The visual fidelity was also highlighted as one of the standout features, showcasing stunning landscapes and character designs that appeared lifelike.
- Key Points of Criticism:
- Some reviewers pointed out that the quest design felt formulaic, echoing structures found in many open-world games.
- Despite the praise, certain elements like pacing and AI behaviors were noted as areas needing improvement.
Critics emphasized the game's ability to create a compelling narrative that maintained tension while offering players myriad choices that shaped their experience. The addition of new machines and improved combat systems were often highlighted as well, making the gameplay more engaging and strategic.
"A striking visual immersion and a rich narrative have set a new benchmark for open-world gaming, pushing the envelope of storytelling and exploration biology." - GamesRadar
Community Response and Player Engagement
Community feedback played an integral role in expanding the game's impact. Forums and social media platforms like Reddit became real-time arenas for discussions about the game, showcasing passions and frustrations alike. The community response was overwhelmingly positive, but it wasn't without its nuances.
- Community Highlights:
- Players praised the diversity of environments and challenges, revealing their enjoyment in discovering every nook and cranny of the vast world.
- Many fans formed clans and shared strategies online, signaling a desire to engage deeply with the content beyond the single-player story.
This engagement isn’t just a passing trend. Players created fan art, guides, and walkthroughs, fostering a sense of community that transcended the game itself. Some passionate fans even addressed the noted flaws through in-depth videos and discussions, motivating developers to consider player suggestions for future patches.
The Future of the Horizon Franchise
The Horizon franchise has swiftly become a significant player in the world of gaming, showcasing remarkable storytelling, intricate world-building, and innovative gameplay. As we explore the future of this franchise, several key factors emerge that are worth discussing. The enduring popularity of Horizon Forbidden West speaks to its potential, giving rise to further adventures and narrative explorations. By examining possible plotlines and expansions, the journey forward looks rich with possibilities, much like the vast landscapes players traverse in-game.
Potential Story Progressions
The narrative continuity and character development in Horizon Forbidden West open numerous avenues for future installments. Aloy’s journey, steeped in her struggle against primal forces and human conflicts, presents fertile ground for evolving narratives. Here are some intriguing potential story progressions:
- Exploration of New Territories: Aloy could journey beyond the known lands, perhaps delving into the remnants of ancient civilizations that could hold clues about Earth’s past and future.
- Complicated Relationships: The intricacies of Aloy’s relationships—friendships, alliances, and rivalries—could lead to conflicts that enrich her character development and impact the game’s world.
- Greater Threats from Beyond: The introduction of new antagonists—maybe human factions or advanced AI—could ramp up tension in the storyline. The stakes are higher when the enemy isn’t just mechanical but might be more organized and strategic.
In thinking about these narratives, it’s clear that each choice could keep players engrossed, providing a rich tapestry of motivations, conspiracies, and emotional stakes.
Expansions and Possibilities
A game as expansive and layered as Horizon Forbidden West lends itself well to downloadable content (DLC) and expansions. Here are some avenues to consider:
- New Quests and Regions: Expanding the in-game map to include previously uncharted territories could introduce fresh challenges and unique quests. These zones might feature distinct environments, enemies, and lore, inviting players to embark on brand new adventures.
- Character-Specific DLC Stories: Focused expansions that delve into the backstories of secondary characters could enrich the primary narrative. These could shine a light on their motivations and pasts, providing depth to the overall story arc.
- Seasonal Events and Themed Content: Regularly scheduled events that offer cosmetics, special missions, or unique challenges can keep the community engaged and the gameplay fresh.
Each expansion could serve not only as an addition to the existing game but also as a way to further explore and understand the intricacies of a world teeming with life and history.
"The future of the Horizon franchise stands at an exciting crossroads, ripe with story potential and opportunities for expanding gameplay mechanics."
In summary, the Horizon franchise's future is poised for exploration and innovation. With the right narrative choices and expansion strategies, it could continue to captivate gamers and critics alike, building upon the strong foundation already established.
Technical Specifications and Performance
Understanding the technical specifications and performance capabilities of a game like Horizon Forbidden West is crucial, especially as players seek immersive experiences that meet their gaming desires. This section delves into hardware requirements and compares performance metrics against prior installments, illuminating the enhancements that contribute to a richer gaming landscape. Knowing these technical details is essential for gamers who want to optimize their adventure in the stunning world of Horizon.
Hardware Requirements for Optimal Play
The hardware specifications for Horizon Forbidden West reflect its ambition to deliver cutting-edge visuals and seamless gameplay. For players eager to experience the game at its best, having a capable set-up is non-negotiable. Here’s a breakdown of the minimum and recommended specifications:
- Minimum Requirements:
- Recommended Requirements:
- Processor: AMD Ryzen 5 2500 or Intel Core i5-2500
- RAM: 8 GB
- Graphics Card: AMD Radeon RX 560 or NVIDIA GeForce GTX 780
- Storage: 100 GB free space
- Operating System: Windows 10 64-bit
- Processor: AMD Ryzen 5 3600 or Intel Core i7-4770
- RAM: 16 GB
- Graphics Card: AMD Radeon RX 5700 or NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1080
- Storage: 100 GB SSD for better speed
- Operating System: Windows 10 64-bit
These specs underline the importance of adequate hardware to fully utilize the game’s graphical fidelity and performance capabilities. Gamers can enhance their experience, especially around dynamic lighting and rich environments, by ensuring their gear aligns with or exceeds the recommended requirements. For those who want a taste of the ultimate experience, playing on a model like PlayStation 5 can provide the most optimized performance, showcasing faster load times and elevated frame rates.
"Great graphics are like a cherry on top. But having a sturdy backbone for gameplay ensures that the cherry doesn’t roll off the cake!"
Comparative Analysis with Previous Installments
When comparing Horizon Forbidden West with its predecessor, Horizon Zero Dawn, the evolution in technical performance becomes evident. The first game set a high bar, but the sequel goes the extra mile. Here's how they stack up against each other:
- Graphics and Visuals:
Horizon Forbidden West introduces advanced graphical techniques, providing lush environments and more intricate character designs. Where Horizon Zero Dawn had beautiful landscapes, the sequel enhances these details with improved textures and richer color palettes. - Frame Rate and Resolution:
Players experienced a solid frame rate in Horizon Zero Dawn, but the sequel pushes it further. Players can enjoy up to 60 FPS at 4K resolution on the PS5. The fluidity of gameplay plays a crucial role in combat and exploration, especially in demanding sequences. - Load Times:
Loading times were one of the few criticisms during Horizon's initial launch. With Horizon Forbidden West, the incorporation of SSD technology for PlayStation 5 transformed loading experiences—from lengthy waits to near instant access to the game world.
This comparative analysis showcases the strides made in the gaming industry, particularly with sequels that not only build upon their foundations but also address past limitations.
In summary, understanding the technical specifications and performance allows players to make informed decisions about their gaming setups, ensuring they are well-equipped to tackle the adventures that await in the Horizon universe.
Cultural and Artistic Influences
The world of Horizon Forbidden West is not just a digital terrain filled with quests and challenges; it is a tapestry woven with deep cultural and artistic threads. These influences play an enormous role in shaping the game’s identity, giving it significance beyond mere entertainment. When players step into Aloy's shoes, they don’t just encounter a game, but rather engage with a narrative saturated in themes that echo both real-life struggles and philosophical inquiries. This section elucidates how these cultural aspects resonate not only within the gameplay but also within the wider gaming community.
Themes and Philosophical Underpinnings
Horizon Forbidden West caters to a varied tapestry of themes that reach far beyond the surface level. One prominent theme is the concept of coexistence—how human beings interact with nature, technology, and the remnants of a lost civilization. Aloy’s journey, for example, compels players to reflect on their own relationship with the environment. This is not just a battle against mechanical beasts but a call to contemplate the fragility and resilience of ecosystems.
In terms of philosophical exploration, the game invites a comparison between advancement and harmony. As players unveil ecosystems populated with mechanical creatures, they’re often confronted with questions about progress: At what cost does innovation come? The narrative pushes players to consider not just survival but the moral dimensions of their choices.
This rich thematic layer can spark deeper discussions within gamer circles, making it an ideal topic for forums on platforms like Reddit. Players often share their perspectives on these themes, creating a collective storyline that enhances each individual's experience of the game.
Environmental and Societal Reflections
The environmental and societal reflections in Horizon Forbidden West serve as a lens for players to examine contemporary issues. By presenting a world ravaged by climate change and technological excess, the game acts as a mirror to our society. The lush landscapes, driven by advanced graphics, depict both decay and beauty—an artful reminder of what is possible when we responsibly engage with the environment.
Society within the game is richly textured, showcasing varied tribes that each offer unique cultural practices, belief systems, and societal structures. This diversity sparks curiosity and pride in players as they learn about different ways of life. Moreover, Aloy’s interactions with these tribes challenge stereotypes and promote inclusivity, encouraging players to reflect on their biases and engage thoughtfully with others in the real world.
In crafting dialogue and lore that touches on such themes, the developers lay bare the urgent need for awareness and action against real-world issues like climate degradation and societal inequality.
"Horizon Forbidden West not only immerses you in a beautifully crafted world but compels you to confront the profound truths about our existence."
In summary, the cultural and artistic influences in Horizon Forbidden West enrich the gameplay experience by weaving together themes of coexistence, technological morality, and environmental mindfulness. As players navigate this world, they inevitably reflect on their own lives, making it more than just a game; it becomes a canvas for larger societal debates. In doing so, it highlights how critically engaged storytelling in video games can spark meaningful conversations across diverse communities.
The End
Conclusively, the depth of Horizon Forbidden West as explored in this article showcases not just a game, but a monumental step in narrative and technological innovation in gaming. This journey through Aloy’s latest quest has revealed myriad facets that elevate it beyond mere entertainment.
Within the tapestry of its narrative lies a rich characterization that enhances player connection. The expanding lore, interwoven with real-world themes, adds layers of meaning that resonate with players on various levels. This brand of storytelling—sculpted through well-timed character development and environmental cues—brings the game to life, making it an experience rather than just a series of mechanics.
Summarizing Key Insights
- Character Complexity: Aloy isn't just a hero; her growth mirrors struggles many face, enhancing player empathy and engagement.
- Technological Feats: Innovations in graphics and sound have set new benchmarks in the gaming industry, showcasing how technology can enhance immersive storytelling.
- Cultural Relevance: The game’s themes reflect deeper societal issues, prompting players to ponder their own connection with the environment and society at large.
- Community Reception: The warm embrace from the gaming community underlines the importance of player feedback and engagement, shaping future updates and expansions.
Final Thoughts on Horizon Forbidden West
In wrapping up, it's clear that Horizon Forbidden West stands as a pivotal installment in the gaming landscape. With its blend of engaging story, advanced gameplay mechanics, and a community that eagerly anticipates its next moves, it sets a tone for future releases in the franchise.
What's intriguing is the potential for future narratives to build on the foundation laid here. As players dive deeper into the world and its complexities, each new discovery becomes an invitation to think critically about broader issues while being entertained. This duality is what keeps the franchise alive and relevant.
The game's contributions reflect the growth of gaming as an art form, evolving alongside its audience’s expectations. Because of this, it’s safe to say that Horizon Forbidden West does more than just entertain; it challenges its players to engage thoughtfully with the world around them.
