Can you believe it’s been three years since the original Borderlands surprised us all with its addictive, loot-driven kill-fests? Three years since we opened the Vault, killed our first Badass Psycho, picked up our first corrosive pistol. For me at least the time doesn’t seem so long ago because I’ve been playing Borderlands and its DLC periodically ever since 2009. And how we’re here in 2012, with Borderlands 2 and all its glory. I’ve been playing daily since the game came out last week, and here’s what you need to know about the game so far.
In many respects, Borderlands 2 is a simple expansion of the first Borderlands. The gameplay is largely the same, there are still four characters to play as, you fight many of the same enemies, and the overall feeling of the game is the same. That being said, I really wouldn’t want it any other way. The first Borderlands melding of Diablo-esque grinding and first-person shooter action was a dream match up we didn’t even know we wanted (creating a new sub-genre, the “Role-Playing Shooter”). So seeing that the excellent formula wasn’t touched too much should come as no surprise to veteran Vault Hunters.
A handful of notable additions make the game better, eclipsing the first game in a few instances. For example, if you zoom in to look down the sights of your gun while aiming at an enemy you will snap-on to the target automatically. It’s subtle, but knowing that you can more accurately shoot a foe from a distance is a much welcome addition. There are tons more guns this time as well, with some interesting abilities to boot. Bayonets have been added to certain guns, allowing them to function as melee weapons. Some guns use two, three, four, and even six bullets per shot, giving them an extra boost of firepower (and rarity). Tweaked enemy AI means killing Pshychos isn’t as easy as waiting for them to mindlessly run up to you and start shooting then take them out. They will now hide behind cover, utilize grenades, and flank you, making the game (which was already difficult enough) even more challenging. Speaking of challenges, the in-game achievements are still included, but instead of rewarding your experience points for completing milestone goals (like killing 250 of a certain enemy, or firing 10,000 bullets), you earn Badass Points. These points can be used to unlock stat boosting enhancements that work for all characters on your account, not just the one you’re playing at that time. There are many more improvements to the game as well, but just know that everything added was something that probably should have been there in the first place, making Borderlands 2 an improvement over the original (which is quite the feat considering the first game was so well executed).
Aside from the gameplay enhancements, I’m liking the game’s story and nods to other games. The first Borderlands wasn’t a narrative masterpiece, but it did have some memorable characters, not the least of which being the four heroes and Claptrap. The little robotic friend (sometimes enemy) is back in full force, and I was happy to see the inclusion of each of the four original Vault Hunters. I like how the story of this game revolves around them in some way, shape, or form: it makes me feel like my actions in the first game did not go unnoticed. The sole new character I’m really enjoying is the antagonist Handsome Jack. His ECHO device recordings paint him as a suave, arrogant, bastard who harnesses a lot of power and a dark sense of humor. So basically he’s a perfect fit for Borderlands! The main quest is entertaining, with thrills in ever new location, as well as plenty of, “Oh shit!” moments. Not only that, but the side quests are all worthwhile in their own right: I just completed a quest that was essentially me murdering the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles. You have to give the game credit for that.
I’m sure you’ve read all about the game so far, so let me give you something new you can take away from this. Here are a few tips I’ve discovered while playing the game that might, in the words of Dr. Zed, “Save your God darn life.”
If you watch your HUD, and more specifically your ammo clip, while reloading, you’ll notice your gun reloads before the animation of your character physically reloading ends. If you throw a grenade or use your class ability after the gun reloads but before the animation finishes your gun will still be reloaded. This can save you an extra half second to a second while fighting and reloading.
Zero’s Deception class skill allows him to deploy a holographic decoy which enemies will attack, and Zero will go into a stealth mode for five seconds (this amount of time can be increased via skills). With those five seconds you can do a lot of things, including fully reviving a partner who has fallen. This is extremely valuable while in the middle of a boss fight.
Similar to the above trick with Zero, Axton can deploy his turret in front of a downed ally which will draw fire away from Axton, allowing him to revive his partner.
Whenever you have the option, get two cars from the Catch-A-Ride station. Double the firepower means double the fun!
It may go without saying, but playing with friends is way better than playing alone. Not only does the extra ally mean you get experience points faster and earn better loot, but each class plays extremely well with one another. Maya’s Phaselock ability can keep a stronger enemy at bay while Axton’s turret takes care of the minions running around his feet. Zero can stealth behind enemy lines and surprise foes while they are still focused on the Gunzerking Salvador. Seriously… it’s awesome.
In short, Borderlands 2 is a fine example of how an already great game can be made even better in a sequel. Time will tell if Borderlands 2 is a longer lasting game than Borderlands, but for right now I’m having a blast exploring Pandora, killing countless bad guys, and finding better guns and shields. You should probably be playing the game right now. I appreciate your patronage on the sight, but turn on your system or click on your icon and start the game! That’s what I’m going to be doing in a minute.
Laters,
Jsick
