TL;DR
- Complete ‘The Embassy’ main story quest to permanently unlock the Shieldwing glider
- Enable Auto Shieldwing in settings to eliminate fall damage with automatic deployment
- Glider operates without stamina limitations unlike similar mechanics in other games
- Strategic manual deployment enables maximum distance coverage and exploration efficiency
- Acquisition typically requires 3+ hours of focused main story progression
Aloy’s essential aerial mobility tool becomes accessible relatively early in your adventure through the Forbidden West. This versatile equipment significantly enhances traversal capabilities across the expansive game world.
The inclusion of gliding mechanics has transformed modern open-world exploration, drawing inspiration from genre-defining titles. In Horizon Forbidden West, the Shieldwing represents a crucial advancement in vertical mobility, allowing controlled descent from elevated positions like mountain peaks, Tallneck structures, or any significant altitude advantage. This in-game apparatus received substantial promotional attention before launch, generating considerable player curiosity about acquisition methods. Our comprehensive guide delivers precise unlocking instructions alongside expert utilization strategies—please note this contains minor narrative revelations.
The Shieldwing integrates permanently into Aloy’s arsenal upon successful completion of the primary narrative mission titled The Embassy. This pivotal story segment involves diplomatic negotiations occurring beyond Barren Light’s defensive perimeter. Aloy’s objective centers on progressing past these barriers into the uncharted western territories. Throughout this critical operation, she obtains the Shieldwing apparatus, her specialized descent mechanism that facilitates graceful aerial navigation instead of hazardous uncontrolled plunges.
And I’m freeeeee…Freefallin’.
The Shieldwing exhibits surprisingly rapid descent characteristics compared to similar mechanics in other gaming titles. However, unlike the stamina-restricted gliding found in games like Dying Light 2, this apparatus operates without endurance constraints, permitting unlimited aerial duration according to player preference. Focused main storyline advancement typically yields glider accessibility within approximately three hours, though this accelerated pace bypasses numerous optional activities. These supplementary missions remain available for later completion, making glider acquisition followed by retrospective exploration a viable strategic approach.
Understanding the Shieldwing’s descent physics is crucial for optimal utilization. The device maintains consistent downward velocity regardless of duration, allowing precise landing zone targeting. Advanced players should master altitude assessment to determine ideal deployment heights—activating too early wastes potential distance coverage, while delayed deployment risks impact damage. The absence of stamina mechanics enables creative exploration techniques like extended ridge-hopping and multi-stage descent strategies.
Common mistakes include underestimating descent speed and misjudging landing zones. To avoid these errors, practice in safe environments and always scan landing areas for hostile machines or environmental hazards before committing to descent.
After securing the Shieldwing, activate a specialized configuration option within the settings menu to dramatically enhance its protective functionality. Navigate to Settings>General and locate the Auto Shieldwing toggle switch. Enabling this setting effectively neutralizes fall damage risks. When Aloy approaches within several feet of terrain, she automatically engages her glider apparatus ensuring secure touchdown.
Important to understand: automatic deployment doesn’t trigger immediately during freefall descent. For maximizing aerial travel distance, manual activation remains essential, but if your preference leans toward eliminating elevation-related injuries entirely, this feature configuration provides the optimal solution. For additional Horizon expertise, consult our essential Class Guide for character optimization and the comprehensive Complete Guide for comprehensive gameplay mastery.
Advanced configuration tips include combining Auto Shieldwing with strategic manual overrides for complex terrain navigation. The system intelligently calculates deployment timing based on velocity and altitude, but experienced players can achieve superior results through situational awareness and proactive deployment decisions. This feature particularly benefits players focusing on exploration rather than precision aerial maneuvering.
Action Checklist
- Progress through main story until reaching ‘The Embassy’ mission
- Complete all mission objectives to permanently unlock the Shieldwing
- Access Settings > General menu and enable Auto Shieldwing feature
- Practice manual deployment from various heights to master distance control
- Combine Auto Shieldwing with manual overrides for complex navigation scenarios
No reproduction without permission:SeeYouSoon Game Club » How To Get The Shieldwing Glider In Horizon Forbidden West Master the Shieldwing glider in Horizon Forbidden West with essential unlocking tips and advanced mobility strategies
