In the world of extraction shooters, the thrill of entering a high-stakes environment, securing valuable loot, and making a successful escape is a core attraction. The upcoming game Exoborne takes this established formula and amplifies the excitement with the introduction of super-powered Exo-Rigs, dynamic weather effects, and the ever-popular grappling hooks. Having spent around 4-5 hours with the game during a recent preview event, I left with a sense of anticipation for what Exoborne could bring to the genre, despite not feeling an immediate urge for "one more drop."
The Exo-Rigs are central to Exoborne's unique identity. Currently, there are three types of rigs available: Kodiak, which offers a shield during sprints and a devastating ground slam; Viper, which boosts health regeneration upon downing or killing enemies and features a strong melee attack; and Kerstrel, which prioritizes mobility with enhanced jumping and hovering capabilities. These rigs can be further customized with modules specific to each type, allowing for deeper personalization of their unique abilities. While the limited number of rigs might feel restrictive, the potential for future additions remains a tantalizing prospect, though developer Shark Mob was not ready to discuss plans for additional Exo-Rigs at this time.
The shooting mechanics in Exoborne are notably satisfying, with guns offering a weighty feel and impactful recoil. Melee attacks deliver a satisfying punch, and the grappling hook adds a thrilling dimension to navigation, allowing for swift and dynamic movement across the map. The game's post-apocalyptic setting is further enhanced by unpredictable weather events, such as tornadoes that can boost aerial mobility or rain that hampers parachute usage. Fire tornadoes add another layer of strategic depth, providing mobility benefits but also posing lethal dangers if players venture too close.
Risk vs. Reward
At the heart of Exoborne's design is the principle of risk versus reward. Upon entering a match, players face a 20-minute countdown, after which their location is broadcast to all other players. They then have 10 minutes to extract or face a "killswitch." Players can choose to extract at any time if they have the necessary funds, but the longer they remain in the game, the greater the potential loot. Loot is scattered throughout the environment, from containers and fallen AI enemies to the most lucrative source: other human players. Additionally, artifacts—high-value loot boxes—require not only their retrieval but also the acquisition of artifact keys to unlock their contents. These artifacts are visible on the map, setting the stage for intense PvP encounters.
High-value loot areas are another focal point, guarded by formidable AI mobs, increasing the risk for those seeking the best rewards. This setup fosters a tense atmosphere that encourages effective squad communication. Even if a player is downed, they are not immediately out of the game. Self-revives offer a chance to get back into the action, and teammates can resurrect fallen players, provided they can reach their body in time—a process that, while lengthy, provides a crucial lifeline.
My experience with Exoborne highlighted two main concerns. Firstly, the game seems best enjoyed with a dedicated group of friends. While solo play and matchmaking with strangers are options, they are less optimal. This is a common challenge for squad-based tactical extraction shooters, compounded by Exoborne not being free-to-play, which may deter casual fans without a regular gaming group.
Secondly, the late-game experience remains unclear. Game Director Petter Mannefelt indicated that discussions about late-game mechanics were premature, but emphasized that it would involve PvP and player comparisons. While the PvP encounters I experienced were enjoyable, the intervals between them felt too long to make me eager to dive back in solely for PvP.
As Exoborne gears up for its playtest from February 12 to the 17th on PC, the community will have the opportunity to further explore its potential and see how it evolves. This game promises to bring a fresh twist to the extraction shooter genre with its unique mechanics and intense gameplay dynamics.
