Horizon Zero Dawn Parts Alone Trial Guide And Completion Tips

8 October 2026 | 85

The Nora Hunting Grounds in Horizon Zero Dawn serves as the first major test of Aloy's hunting proficiency and precision combat skills. Among these initial challenges, the Parts Alone Trial tasks players with removing ten Blaze canisters from the backs of Grazers before time runs out. Successfully securing a Blazing Sun reward requires smart gear selection, rapid aim, and an understanding of machine behavior.

Understanding the Objective of the Trial

In this trial, your primary goal is to detach ten canisters without necessarily destroying the host Grazers in the process. Many players accidentally kill the machines before removing enough component parts, which wastes precious time and targets. Using high-damage weapons can end the trial prematurely, so choosing tools with high tear value rather than direct damage is essential.

The Grazers will quickly scatter once alerted by your first attack or nearby noises. Because of this skittish nature, hitting multiple canisters while the herd remains clustered is key to early success. Activating Aloy's Concentration skill allows you to slow down time and line up accurate shots on individual back canisters.

Best Weapons and Gear to Use

The Sharpshot Bow equipped with Tearblast Arrows or Harvester Arrows offers one of the most reliable methods for stripping components quickly. Tearblast Arrows create a localized blast that strips multiple canisters simultaneously without causing heavy damage to the Grazers. Alternatively, using a Tearblaster weapon trivializes the challenge by instantly knocking off components in a wider radius.

If you prefer standard gear, applying handling modifications to your bows significantly improves drawing speed and shot cadence. Players looking for optimal builds can explore options like to enhance their overall strategy in combat challenges. Lowering raw damage mods ensures that the Grazers survive long enough for you to harvest the required parts.

Step-by-Step Strategy for Blazing Sun

Begin the trial by sliding down the rope into the tall grass near the herd. Take a brief moment while undetected to scan the Grazers with your Focus and highlight their component locations. Once positioned, trigger Concentration and target the center of the canister clusters on multiple adjacent Grazers.

When the herd spooks and begins running down the pathways, give chase while continuing to fire Tearblast or Harvester arrows into their backs. Focus on Grazers that still have intact canisters rather than chasing fleeing targets that have already been stripped. With efficient shot placement, you can complete the trial well within the ninety-second time limit for the top rank.

Key Tips and Troubleshooting Common Mistakes

A common mistake is using heavy damage arrows like Hardpoint or Precision arrows, which often kill the Grazer before its canisters fall off. If you find yourself running out of targets, consider raising the game difficulty temporarily so machines take less total damage. Staying mobile and keeping a clear line of sight during the panic phase ensures you hit the required count before time expires.