I played the Complete Edition (with DLC) so in lieu of writing two separate reviews, I'll just combine them here.
Overall, HZD was a very fun journey following the story (though it was a bit predictable) and an absolute blast to play, but the endings for both HZD and FW needs polish. I guess they were trying to set up for a sequel or more DLCs, but I was left feeling a bit incomplete. I also feel like the main story makes a bit more sense if you play the side missions and errands: they help to build Aloy's character so you can understand her motivations better. Unfortunately, it seems like choices (taking or abandoning quests, or dialogue options) really have no impact on the game or Aloy. I also thought it was pretty great how the technology bits are recognizable to us, but seem like inexplicable magic to the NPCs. Although I can't understand how some of these technologies still have power. Must be world's best batteries x 1000 haha.
I was actually annoyed by the "improved" graphics in FW. You know how hard it is to aim while snow particles are flying all around on your screen?? I guess the deformable snow was nice and the fire haze.
For new players, my recommendations are:
1. get the golden fast travel pack in Meridian. Walking/riding around the map is a serious waste of time.
2. get the 5 power cells for the uber armor in "ancient armory" side quest. you'll love taking on big machines head on just because you can.
3. the hunting lodge challenges are worth it for better gear. until you get the banuk weaps in FW. though I played stealth and used tripwires and traps mostly. but my favorite arrow is that tearblast one. it has a great sound effect and it's hilarious blowing off chunks of machine pieces!