Borderlands 3 has arrived. Nearly a decade ago, the original Borderlands premiered, injecting a dose of humor and chaotic energy into the gaming landscape. While the gameplay mechanics might not have been cutting-edge at the time, its entertainment value was undeniable. The updated Borderlands: Game of the Year Edition released in early 2019 featured a welcome 4K visual upgrade, but the enemy AI remained simplistic, contributing to an overall dated feel.
Now, after spending considerable time with Borderlands 3, one might expect to be thoroughly impressed by its new features and enhanced AI. However, my experience has been somewhat mixed. There’s a parallel to be drawn with the performing arts: a comedian whose material is stale is met with disapproval, whereas a musician is often celebrated for faithfully recreating familiar songs.
This dynamic resonates with gamers and moviegoers alike. Viewers often appreciate a sequel that captures the essence of the original – its atmosphere, humor, and recognizable elements – while also delivering a sense of progression. While Borderlands 3 successfully recaptures the series’ signature feel, it arguably lacks a distinct identity, closely adhering to the established formula rather than forging its own path.
The enemy AI retains its simplistic behavior, with opponents often charging directly at the player. The limited enemy variety further contributes to a sense of repetition. While Borderlands 3, as a “looter shooter,” offers a more developed narrative than titles like Vigor, the gameplay loop can become monotonous despite the humorous dialogue.
Shifting focus to the game’s strengths, testing Borderlands 3 in 4K on an Xbox One X, connected to a Panasonic TX-65EZ950E display, yielded a visually stunning experience. The vibrant colors and cel-shaded graphics are exceptionally well-realized, making this a truly beautiful game. The responsive refresh rate and fluid character movement contribute to a seamless gameplay experience. Acquiring a vehicle early on elevates the sense of speed and control. While the initial vehicle handling may require adjustment, a quick configuration of the control settings resolves this issue. The game boasts a wide array of new weapons and upgrades. Character progression is steady, and each of the four playable characters offers distinct abilities and unlockable features.
In conclusion, the evolution from the original Borderlands to Borderlands 3 might not be as significant as anticipated. Nevertheless, Borderlands 3 remains an enjoyable game, characterized by its high-octane action, violence, and over-the-top gore. The quirky dialogue and absurd last words of defeated enemies provide moments of genuine amusement. Therefore, Borderlands 3 warrants a recommendation, although further innovation is needed to elevate it to a truly essential title. The game needs to evolve beyond its comfort zone and embrace more significant advancements.
