Status:
- Complete in Box
- Play Tested
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Borderlands: The Pre-Sequel! - PS3 Review
Released in 2014, Borderlands: The Pre-Sequel! is the third installment in the Borderlands series, developed by 2K Australia and published by 2K Games. Positioned as a prequel to the critically acclaimed Borderlands 2, this game takes place between the events of the first Borderlands and Borderlands 2. It introduces new mechanics, a fresh setting (the moon), and new characters, while maintaining the series' signature style of humor, fast-paced shooting, and loot-driven gameplay.
While The Pre-Sequel! retains much of what players love about the Borderlands franchise, it also introduces some new twists and features that set it apart. However, it also carries some of the series' familiar shortcomings that can affect its long-term appeal.
Story & Narrative
Borderlands: The Pre-Sequel! dives into the backstory of some of the characters and events that lead up to Borderlands 2. Players take on the role of one of four new vault hunters:
- Athena, the former Gladiator turned assassin.
- Nisha, the future Sheriff of Lynchwood, who has a quick draw and a dangerous temper.
- Claptrap, the lovable (yet annoyingly self-centered) robot from the Borderlands universe.
- Wilhelm, the man who will eventually become the villainous cyborg in Borderlands 2.
The story revolves around Handsome Jack's rise to power and his search for the key to unlocking the moon's power. As the player progresses, they learn more about Jack's transformation into the tyrant players encounter in Borderlands 2. The narrative explores Jack's complicated character, his relationships with those around him, and how his ambitions lead to him becoming the man feared by Pandora.
The writing in The Pre-Sequel! continues the Borderlands tradition of sharp, irreverent humor. The dialogue is witty, often making light of the game's otherwise dark themes. Claptrap, in particular, provides comic relief, though his antics can wear thin for some players. The story is solid but not as captivating as Borderlands 2, with some of the plot beats feeling a bit predictable. Still, its fun for fans of the series, as it helps flesh out the backstory of a beloved character, Handsome Jack, and gives more context to the events that shaped the Borderlands universe.
Gameplay & Mechanics
The gameplay of The Pre-Sequel! is largely consistent with the previous Borderlands games, with some notable additions and tweaks:
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Moon Setting & Low Gravity: The most prominent new feature in The Pre-Sequel! is the setting on the moon of Pandora, Elpis. The low gravity environment significantly impacts combat, allowing players to jump higher and float in the air. This makes movement and combat feel different from the traditional Borderlands titles, adding a unique dynamic. However, the novelty of this feature can wear off during extended play, as it can sometimes make combat feel less grounded and harder to manage, particularly in tight spaces or when fighting groups of enemies.
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Oxygen System: The game introduces an oxygen mechanic, where
