Borderlands: The Pre-Sequel

Borderlands: The Pre-Sequel is a first-person shooter video game that serves as a narrative bridge between the original Borderlands and its sequel, Borderlands 2. Developed by 2K Australia, with collaboration from Gearbox Software, it was released in October 2014 for Microsoft Windows, PlayStation 3, and Xbox 360, with subsequent ports for other platforms. Set on Pandora’s moon, Elpis, and its orbiting Hyperion space station, the game explores the rise to power of Handsome Jack, a central antagonist in Borderlands 2. This installment delves into Jack’s transformation from a relatively benign Hyperion programmer to the megalomaniacal villain fans love to hate. By focusing on his character development, the game enriches the overarching Borderlands narrative, offering players insight into his motivations and the circumstances that lead to his villainous turn. The Pre-Sequel retains the series’ signature cel-shaded art style and offbeat humor while introducing new gameplay mechanics. One of the standout features is the low-gravity environment of the moon, which significantly alters combat dynamics. Players can jump higher and further, adding a new layer of verticality to battles. The inclusion of oxygen tanks, or "Oz kits," not only provides players with air to breathe in the vacuum of space but also introduces strategic considerations, as players must manage their oxygen levels during exploration and combat. Another notable addition to gameplay is the introduction of new elemental damage types, such as cryo and laser weapons. Cryo weapons allow players to freeze enemies, who can then be shattered with subsequent attacks, adding a satisfying tactical option to combat. Lasers provide a futuristic twist to the already diverse arsenal available to players, continuing the series’ tradition of offering an array of weaponry with unique attributes and effects. The Pre-Sequel offers four new playable characters, each with unique skill trees and abilities. Athena the Gladiator, Wilhelm the Enforcer, Nisha the Lawbringer, and Claptrap the Fragtrap bring distinct playstyles that cater to different player preferences. Athena, for example, uses a shield for both offense and defense, while Wilhelm can deploy drones to assist in battle. Nisha’s skills focus on gunplay and critical hits, and Claptrap offers unpredictable, chaotic abilities that can either help or hinder teammates. The cooperative multiplayer aspect, a staple of the Borderlands series, remains a core component, allowing up to four players to team up and tackle the game’s missions together. The camaraderie and chaos of multiplayer sessions enhance the experience, as players work together to overcome the challenges presented by the harsh lunar environment and the many enemies they encounter. Narratively, The Pre-Sequel explores themes of power, corruption, and the moral ambiguity of its characters. By placing players in the shoes of future antagonists, it challenges them to consider the complexity of the Borderlands universe, where heroes and villains are often two sides of the same coin. The game’s humor, laden with cultural references and satirical commentary, provides levity while also critiquing corporate greed and authoritarianism, mirroring real-world issues in its exaggerated, dystopian setting. Despite being well-received for its engaging gameplay and narrative depth, The Pre-Sequel faced some criticism for its reliance on existing mechanics and its perceived lack of innovation compared to its predecessors. Some players felt the game was more of an expansion than a full-fledged sequel, though others appreciated the opportunity to explore new environments and characters within the Borderlands universe. In conclusion, Borderlands: The Pre-Sequel expands upon the series’ unique blend of humor, action, and storytelling, offering players a deeper understanding of one of its most iconic villains. Through its innovative use of low-gravity mechanics, a diverse cast of characters, and a rich narrative backdrop, it provides a compelling experience that both complements and enhances the broader Borderlands saga.