10 EXACT Moments You Knew Video Game Characters Were Doomed
9. Rost's Goodbye - Horizon Zero Dawn
The early story set-up for Horizon Zero Dawn hinges on Aloy and her adopted Father Rost, two outcasts from the Nora tribe. Rost, of course, acts as a bit of a tutorial character for the player getting to grips with the controls and a mentor for everything Aloy needs. When she chooses to take part in a trial known as The Proving, Rost says his goodbyes to Aloy because it's Nora tribe rule to never associate with outsiders. If Aloy succeeds, they can never see each other again.
The player has a few ways to respond to Rost's soft, mournful parting words but, whether that's done in anger or sadness, it's very clear that they're not going to get a chance for another conversation.
After all, dying Father figures is story-telling 101 and, at this point, what else does Rost have to offer to the story other than further impetus for Aloy's journey? Players have been tutorialised and have spent enough time in the opening area. This is clearly the moment where the game opens up, and there needs to be a springboard of momentum.
So, of course, players are hardly surprised when the trial goes awry and Rost, who jumps in to help, winds up sacrificing himself for Aloy's safety.
Thanks Dad. It wasn't exactly a shock but it's still a nice thing to do.