Horizon Zero Dawn Power Cell Locations And Ancient Armor Guide

Acquiring the Shield-Weaver armor in Horizon Zero Dawn provides Aloy with a massive defensive advantage by generating an rechargeable force field that absorbs significant damage. Unlocking this powerful outfit requires locating five hidden Power Cells scattered across major story dungeons throughout the post-apocalyptic world. Understanding where these items are located ensures players can restore the ancient tech vault and claim their ultimate protection before facing endgame encounters.
Early Game Power Cell Locations
The first Power Cell can be retrieved early in the game when Aloy revisits the underground ruin she fell into as a child. Navigating through the subterranean corridors to the upper level allows players to smash through stalactites blocking a doorway to collect the item. A second cell is hidden inside All-Mother Mountain, accessible during or after the quest following the Proving event.
If players miss the cell in All-Mother Mountain during the initial story mission, they can return later when the gates reopen. Exploring the side tunnels near the locked bunker door reveals the battery tucked away in a small ventilation chamber. Gathering both early-game items sets a solid foundation for completing the ancient outfit questline.
Mid to Late Game Ruins and Dungeons
As the narrative progresses, Aloy must explore ancient facilities constructed by past civilizations to locate the remaining components. The third Power Cell rests at the top of Maker's End, perched atop the skyscraper ruins where Faro Automated Solutions was based. Climbing to the absolute highest point above the conference room rewards observant players with the hidden battery.
Further along the main story, the fourth cell awaits inside the snowy ruins of Grave-Hoard. After solving the ring puzzle to restore power to the facility door, players can find the object resting on the floor inside a side corridor. Reaching these late-game areas requires steady campaign progression, making patience essential for completing the set.
Securing the Final Power Cell and Unlocking the Outfit
The fifth and final Power Cell is located inside the GAIA Prime facility, accessible during the quest titled The Mountain That Fell. Before descending into the deep bunker, players should carefully explore the rocky cliffs to locate a hidden path leading to a secret room. Grabbing this final energy component allows Aloy to complete the full set required for the vault.
With all five Power Cells collected, return to the Armory bunker located in the Sacred Lands to solve the dual dial puzzles. Aligning the holographic displays based on time and directional clues releases the clamps holding the Shield-Weaver outfit. Equipping this advanced armor transforms combat strategy by allowing Aloy to withstand formidable machine attacks with ease.