Sony commissioned a statue of Horizon Forbidden West hero Aloy

The Huntswoman’s Prey

Today sees the launch of one of 2022’s biggest and most anticipated sequels: Horizon Forbidden West. Around the world, Sony is holding various unique publicity events to celebrate the game’s launch, but perhaps none so impressive as in Italy, where a statue of protagonist Aloy now stands proud.

The statue, located in Piazza Madonna della Neve in the Complesso delle Murate of Florence, is titled “Aloy — The Placeholder.” The purpose of the diorama is to draw attention to the talent and expertise of women across the world, who often find their work lacking representation in the wider global lens and within Italy in particular, thus Aloy stands as the “placeholder” for the women of art, culture, science, and history who find their words, deeds, and actions lost within the cacophony of the modern world.

The statue of Aloy will stand in Piazza Madonna della Neve for just one week before being relocated, though Sony has not said where Aloy’s final home will be. In addition to commissioning the statue, Sony has offered support to Italy’s Event Horizon School of Digital Art, helping to establish over 40 courses and classes for youngsters who wish to be a part of the gaming industry’s future.

The statue of Aloy and the Event Horizon classes represent just two of a number of positive schemes Sony has kickstarted alongside the launch of Horizon Forbidden West. Yesterday, we reported on the publisher’s “Play and Plant” project, which will see Sony help reforestation efforts for every player that earns in-game trophy “Reached the Daunt,” with similar schemes launched in both the UK and France.

Horizon Forbidden West launches today on PlayStation platforms.