Exoborne: A High-Octane Extraction Shooter with Powerful Exo-Rigs
Exoborne, an upcoming extraction shooter, refines the core gameplay loop – get in, grab the loot, and escape – by introducing powerful Exo-Rigs that significantly boost strength and mobility. My hands-on preview showcased a thrilling experience enhanced by dynamic weather effects and the ever-popular grappling hook. While not an instant obsession, Exoborne shows considerable promise within the competitive extraction shooter market.
The Exo-Rigs are central to Exoborne's identity. Currently, three distinct rigs are available:
- Kodiak: Offers a sprint shield and a devastating ground-pound attack.
- Viper: Rewards aggressive play with health regeneration upon enemy kills and boasts a powerful melee attack.
- Kerstrel: Prioritizes mobility with enhanced jumping and temporary hovering capabilities.
Each rig can be further customized with unique modules, adding layers of strategic depth. While the current selection feels somewhat limited, the potential for future expansions is exciting.
Gunplay is satisfyingly weighty, melee combat packs a punch, and the grappling hook provides exhilarating traversal options. Dynamic weather events, including tornadoes and rain, introduce unpredictable challenges and opportunities. Tornadoes boost aerial mobility, while rain renders parachutes ineffective. Fire tornadoes offer a risky but potentially rewarding traversal method.
Risk and Reward: The Core Gameplay Loop
Risk versus reward permeates Exoborne's design. A 20-minute timer initiates upon deployment, culminating in a location broadcast to all players. Players then have 10 minutes to extract or face elimination. Early extraction yields less loot, but staying longer increases potential rewards. Loot is scattered throughout the environment, with other players representing the most valuable targets.
Artifacts, high-value loot boxes requiring keys, are marked on the map, guaranteeing player encounters. Heavily guarded high-value areas further incentivize calculated risk-taking. This creates intense gameplay and necessitates effective squad communication.
Even when downed, players aren't immediately eliminated. Self-revives and teammate revives offer a chance for comeback, adding to the tension.
Concerns and Future Outlook
My preview revealed two primary concerns:
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Squad Dependency: Exoborne strongly favors coordinated teamwork. While solo play and random squads are possible, the experience is significantly enhanced with a pre-formed team. This could hinder accessibility for solo players.
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Late-Game Uncertainty: The late-game focus on PvP remains undefined. While the PvP encounters were fun, the extended periods between them need further development to ensure sustained engagement.
Exoborne's PC playtest (February 12-17) will offer further insight into its long-term viability. The core gameplay is undeniably exciting, but addressing the concerns regarding squad reliance and late-game content will be crucial for its overall success.
