Introduction: Why Finding All Horizon Zero Dawn Power Cell Locations Matters

Are you determined to unlock the legendary Shield-Weaver armor in Horizon Zero Dawn? Finding all Horizon Zero Dawn power cell locations is the key to accessing this game-changing suit, which grants Aloy near-invulnerability and a major edge against even the toughest machines. Whether you’re a new player or returning for a replay in 2026, this guide will walk you through every step, ensuring you don’t miss a single cell.

Power Cells are rare, glowing artifacts hidden throughout the world of Horizon Zero Dawn. You’ll need all five to complete the Ancient Armory side quest and override the mysterious bunker’s security systems. The good news? None of the power cells are permanently missable—you can always backtrack, even late in the game. However, some require specific main quest progress or clever platforming, so knowing where to look and how to prepare is crucial.

In this comprehensive guide, you’ll find:

• Step-by-step walkthroughs for each power cell, including combat tips and platforming strategies.
• Maps and image placeholders for every location (with alt text like “horizon zero dawn power cell locations underground ruins map”).
• A quick-jump table for easy navigation.
• Answers to common questions about the Ancient Armory quest, Shield-Weaver armor, and more.

Power Cell Progress Table

Power Cell #1: Underground Ruins

Where to Find the First Power Cell

The first of the Horizon Zero Dawn power cell locations is in the Underground Ruins northeast of All-Mother Mountain. This is the same area Aloy explores as a child during the game’s opening flashback, but you can return as an adult at any time.

Step-by-Step Walkthrough

1. Locate the Ruins: Look for the ruins symbol on your map, northeast of Mother’s Heart.
2. Enter the Bunker: Approach the locked door and use Aloy’s Focus to override it.
3. Solve the Vent Puzzle: Shoot the vent nozzles to clear a path, then rappel down into the lower chamber.
4. Navigate the Corridors: Crawl through a narrow gap and be prepared to face a Watcher or two. Stock up on arrows before entering.
5. Platform to the Cell: After defeating the machines, use the handholds and platforms to reach a pedestal in a side room.
6. Claim the Power Cell: The cell glows green and is easy to spot once you’re in the right chamber.

Tips for Success

• Visit early in the game for an easy grab, but beware of Sawtooths in the area.
• If you missed it as a child, you can always return as an adult.
• Use your Focus to highlight climbable surfaces and hidden paths.

Power Cell #2: All-Mother Mountain

The Automatic Story Power Cell

The second power cell is the easiest to obtain, as it’s given to you automatically during the main quest “The Proving.” After Aloy’s dramatic awakening in the All-Mother Mountain, you’ll find yourself in a sacred chamber.

How to Get It

1. Progress the Main Story: Complete “The Proving” quest.
2. Explore the Chamber: Before leaving the mountain, look for a side room with a glowing green object.
3. Pick Up the Power Cell: It’s on a table, impossible to miss as you exit.

Pro Tips

• No combat is required for this cell.
• Speedrunners can grab it quickly by skipping dialogue.
• Pair this visit with a sweep of the Nora region for extra XP and collectibles.

Power Cell #3: Maker’s End

The Tower Climb Challenge

The third of the Horizon Zero Dawn power cell locations is found during the “Maker’s End” main quest, which takes you to the ruins of a massive skyscraper in the northwest.

Step-by-Step Walkthrough

1. Start the Quest: Begin “Maker’s End” and fight your way through the exterior, including a Deathbringer boss.
2. Climb the Tower: After the boss, enter the building and look for yellow-marked handholds on the walls. Begin your ascent.
3. Reach Faro’s Office: Once inside the office, don’t stop—look for an elevator shaft with more yellow grips.
4. Climb to the Summit: Continue up the shaft and out onto the rooftop. The climb is long but straightforward if you follow the yellow markers.
5. Find the Power Cell: At the very top, on a small overlook, you’ll find the cell waiting for you.

Hazards and Tips

• Watch for Thunderjaw patrols outside—use traps and tripwires to thin their numbers.
• The climb offers a stunning panoramic view of the world—take a moment to enjoy it!
• If you miss the cell during the quest, you can return later.

Power Cell #4: The Grave-Hoard

Puzzle and Combat Combo

The fourth power cell is hidden in The Grave-Hoard, a late-game Carja ruin filled with puzzles and enemies.

Step-by-Step Walkthrough

1. Start “The Grave-Hoard” Quest: Progress until you reach the holo lock puzzle room.
2. Solve the Puzzle: Rotate the four dials to align the correct symbols. Use your Focus to scan for clues (look for lines and dots).
3. Enter the Corridor: Once the door opens, proceed down the hallway.
4. Find the Alcove: The power cell is in a left-side alcove, near a stash of resources.
5. Prepare for Ambush: After grabbing the cell, be ready for a Shadow Carja attack.

Tips for Efficiency

• The puzzle can be solved in under two minutes with Focus hints.
• Save your game before the ambush to avoid repeating the puzzle.
• Use fire arrows against human enemies for quick takedowns.

Power Cell #5: GAIA Prime

The Ultimate Climbing Test

The final and most challenging of the Horizon Zero Dawn power cell locations is in GAIA Prime, accessible during the late-game quest “The Mountain That Fell.”

Step-by-Step Walkthrough

1. Defeat the Stormbird: Before reaching GAIA Prime, you’ll face a tough Stormbird boss. Use Blaze ammo and tearblast arrows to target its weak points.
2. Cross the Broken Bridge: After the fight, cross the shattered bridge and look for a climbable rock face.
3. Find the Side Path: After a cinematic, look for a narrow gap in the rocks leading to a hidden handhold wall.
4. Platform to the Cell: Carefully climb the wall, using yellow markers as guides. The path is tricky and requires patience.
5. Claim the Power Cell: The cell is on a small ledge, just before you reach Sylens’ room.

Boss Prep and Tips

• Stock up on healing items and ammo before the Stormbird fight.
• The Shield-Weaver armor is teased in this area—motivation to finish the quest!
• If you fall during the climb, look for alternate handholds to get back on track.

Optimization Tips for Horizon Zero Dawn Power Cell Locations

Internal Links and Related Guides

• For more on machine weaknesses, see our [Horizon Zero Dawn Machine Database].
• New to the game? Check out our [HZD Beginner’s Guide] for combat and exploration tips.
• Want to maximize your loot? Don’t miss our [Best Outfits and Weapons Guide].

Visuals and Video Walkthroughs

• Use in-game maps and screenshots to mark each power cell location.
• For tricky climbs, watch YouTube walkthroughs for visual step-by-step help.

Related Keywords

• “Power cell 3 maker’s end”
• “Shield-Weaver armor”
• “Ancient Armory quest”
• “Horizon Zero Dawn collectibles map”

FAQ: Horizon Zero Dawn Power Cell Locations

Key Takeaways

• Finding all Horizon Zero Dawn power cell locations is essential for unlocking the Shield-Weaver armor.
• None of the power cells are permanently missable; you can always return to collect them.
• Each cell requires a mix of exploration, puzzle-solving, and combat skills.
• Use maps, Focus, and platforming strategies to reach every location.
• The Shield-Weaver armor provides a major advantage for endgame content and tough machines.

Conclusion: Unlock the Shield-Weaver—Master Every Horizon Zero Dawn Power Cell Location

Collecting all five Horizon Zero Dawn power cell locations is a rewarding challenge that unlocks one of the game’s most powerful rewards. Whether you’re a completionist or just want to breeze through late-game battles, following this guide ensures you won’t miss a single cell. Remember to use your Focus, prepare for tough fights, and enjoy the lore-rich journey through Aloy’s world. Have you found all the power cells? Share your toughest location or favorite Shield-Weaver moment in the comments below!

Hometheads locations