Borderlands: The Pre-Sequel stands out as an action RPG with strong shooter elements, set in the chaotic Borderlands universe. This title bridges the gap between the first two main games, exploring the origins of the series' antagonist Handsome Jack on Pandora's moon, Elpis. Players take on roles as vault hunters working for Jack, blending fast-paced combat with character progression in a low-gravity environment that adds unique twists to movement and fights.
Gameplay
The core loop revolves around exploring lunar landscapes, completing missions, and battling enemies while collecting loot. Low gravity allows for high jumps and air boosts, letting you slam down on foes or hover for strategic advantages. Combat mixes traditional guns with new types like ice weapons that freeze targets and lasers for precise, energy-based attacks. Character classes offer distinct skills: Wilhelm summons drones and transforms into a cyborg, Nisha dual-wields with aim-bot precision, Athena uses a shield for defense and throws, and the Claptrap class brings chaotic, unpredictable abilities. RPG mechanics include skill trees for customization, where you invest points to enhance abilities, and a vast array of weapons with random stats encourages constant upgrades.
Vehicle use expands exploration, with moon buggies handling rough terrain and enabling destructive chases. Oxygen management adds a layer, as you maintain O2 kits to survive outside domes, which also power jetpack boosts. Fights against new enemy types, like space-suited scavs and lunar creatures, demand adapting to the environment, such as using low gravity to dodge or flank.
Game Modes
The game focuses on a main campaign playable in single-player or cooperative multiplayer with up to four players. Co-op allows friends to join sessions, scaling difficulty and loot drops accordingly. There are no dedicated competitive modes; instead, the emphasis is on teaming up for story missions and side quests.
Beyond the campaign, challenge modes test specific skills, like arena-style fights or timed challenges, offering extra rewards. Post-game content includes a higher difficulty playthrough for replayability.
Story and Setting
Set between the events of the original Borderlands and its sequel, the narrative follows Handsome Jack's transformation from a programmer to a tyrant. You play as one of his hired guns, uncovering corporate intrigue on Elpis. The moon's barren, crater-filled surface contrasts with Pandora's wastelands, featuring domed outposts and zero-gravity zones.
Interactions with familiar characters reveal backstories, adding depth to the series' lore. Moral choices highlight the gray areas of working for Jack, blending humor with darker themes.
Is It Worth Playing?
For fans of action RPGs that combine shooting with loot hunting, this game delivers solid value through its character classes and environmental mechanics. It has received positive feedback for innovative features like low-gravity combat and new weapon types, though some note it feels similar to previous entries. With ongoing availability across platforms and DLC expansions that add substantial content, including a standout add-on with new areas and bosses, it remains engaging. If you enjoy cooperative play and Borderlands-style humor, it's a worthwhile addition, especially for understanding the series' villain origins.
