Unlocking the powerful Shield-Weaver outfit in Horizon Zero Dawn is one of the most rewarding side quests for players exploring the post-apocalyptic world. To obtain this legendary armor, Aloy must track down five hidden Power Cells scattered across ancient ruins and key story locations. Finding these items allows players to restore power to an old bunker and claim the ultimate defensive upgrade.
Early Game Power Cell Locations
The first Power Cell can be retrieved from the underground Ruins that Aloy explored during her childhood. Players can return here as an adult to pry open a locked doorway using the spear upgrade. Exploring the lower levels carefully will lead directly to the glowing item resting on a shelf.
A second unit is located inside the All-Mother Temple within Sacred Mountain. Players can gather this cell shortly after waking up from The Proving mission by crawling through a side tunnel. If missed early on, the area becomes accessible again toward the final act of the story.
Main Quest Ruins and High Altitude Locations
As the narrative progresses, the third Power Cell is found during or after the Maker's End main quest. Players must climb to the absolute top of the Faro Automated Solutions building beyond the main objective point. Reaching the very peak reveals the collectible resting on a high platform overlooking the ruins.
The fourth item resides deep within The Grave-Hoard ruin during its corresponding story mission. While solving the door power puzzles to advance, players should look for a side corridor. The Power Cell sits openly near a ledge along the critical path.
The Final Power Cell and Gaia Prime
The fifth and final Power Cell is located in GAIA Prime, an end-game facility reached during The Mountain That Fell quest. Before rappelling down the main shaft, players need to drop onto a hidden rocky ledge to the side. Following the path leads into a dark chamber where the final cell is placed on a cabinet.
Once all five items are collected, players must travel to the Ancient Armory bunker in the Sacred Lands. Inserting the cells into the missing slots triggers two sequential holographic ring puzzles. Solving these alignment puzzles unlocks the chamber containing the Shield-Weaver suit.
Ancient Armor Rewards and Shield Capabilities
The Shield-Weaver armor drastically changes combat dynamics by providing Aloy with an energy barrier that absorbs incoming damage. Instead of taking health damage, the force field absorbs blows until depleted, then automatically recharges after a brief delay. This makes difficult encounters and boss fights significantly more manageable.
Although the outfit cannot be modified with modification coils, its innate defensive shielding provides superior protection across most difficulty settings. Claiming this outfit completes the Ancient Armory side quest and grants a significant advantage for late-game challenges.
