horizon zero dawn power cells Every Power Cell Location for Ancient Armor
Tracking down the elusive ancient technology scattered across the post-apocalyptic landscape of Horizon Zero Dawn is one of the most rewarding challenges for players looking to secure the ultimate defense. Finding every hidden battery component is required to solve the puzzles within the Ancient Armory side quest and unlock the highly celebrated Shield-Weaver outfit. This advanced tactical gear provides Aloy with a rechargeable energy barrier that completely absorbs incoming damage, altering how you engage with high-level machines.
Early Narrative Locations in the Sacred Lands
The first rare component can be found early in the story when Aloy explores the underground bunker she fell into as a child. Navigating back into this cavern as an adult allows you to blast through stalactites blocking a hidden doorway to claim the item. Missing this early opportunity simply means you will need to backtrack to the ruins once your exploration boundaries expand.
Another critical power cell rests inside the mountain sanctuary known as All-Mother Temple, which becomes accessible immediately following the Proving ceremony. If you fail to grab it from the side corridors during the main quest, the temple doors will lock temporarily. You can safely return to this location much later in the campaign once the tribal leadership allows you back inside.
Mid-Game Discoveries High in the Northern Mountains
As the narrative pushes Aloy into the frozen northern reaches, tracking down components requires scale climbing and navigating corporate skyscrapers. The third item is hidden at the absolute peak of Maker's End, resting on the highest platform above the ancient conference room. Reaching this vantage point requires careful navigation of the scaffolding left behind by corrupted machines.
The fourth component is tucked away inside the expansive military bunker known as The Grave-Hoard, which players naturally explore during the main questline. After solving a series of localized hololock puzzles to restore power to the facility, check the side rooms near the exit paths. Finding this specific container ensures your collection remains on track before you head toward the final tribal borders.
Final Quest Components and the Ancient Armory
The fifth and final power cell is located deep within the ruins of GAIA Prime, an area strictly gated behind the late-game mission titled The Mountain That Fell. Before descending down the zip line to continue the main objective, players must carefully explore the rocky shelves to find a hidden doorway leading to the old living quarters. Collecting this final component completes your inventory and prepares you for the trek back to the starting region.
With all five items secured, return to the subterranean bunker near the Embrace to install the power cells and solve the remaining ring puzzles. Activating these ancient systems releases the clamps holding the advanced technological prototype in place. Equipping this powerful gear drastically shifts the combat dynamic, allowing you to survive devastating strikes from the largest mechanical beasts in the game.