Summary
Lately, theBorderlandsfranchise has seen a resurgence of fans and a wave of newcomers due to the upcoming film, and many are discussing the numerous leaks and rumors regarding the next game in the series.Randy Pitchford has mentioned in an interviewthat implied Gearbox is working on a new game in the franchise, and referred to it as “the greatest thing we’ve ever done”. While not an official announcement, the interview has sparked quite a bit of speculation and excitement within the community.
The main series has always prized its insanely vast collection of guns, reaching more than 1 billion guns inBorderlands 3. The storyline itself has often focused on one of the manufacturing companies, their politics, and their influence on Pandora and other planets. However, certain industrial enterprises have so far been left out of the spotlight, and little to nothing is known about them. In particular, the two shield-producing companies, Pangolin and Ashin. The two outright refuse to produce any guns whatsoever, and limit themselves to shields and grenade mods. It could be quite unconventional for the series, but there is a case to be made for a story focused on the two organizations that actively try to save and protect the inhabitants of the wild planet.
A Bigger Focus on the Shields of Borderlands
The Unreached Potential of Shields and Grenade Mods
Borderlands: The Pre-Sequelhas showcased that there is quite a lot of potential for shields. One ofthe Vault Hunters, Athena, utilizes her own shield to completely protect herself, and use the absorbed damage against her enemies. It is a fun mechanic and one that can definitely be utilized more in the form of equipable items. At the moment, most shields in the game provide a list of bonuses, but most of them are completely passive.
It would be quite interesting to see more “weapon-like” shields as well, bringing a much-requested melee option for players. Many players have immensely enjoyed the newMelee Weapons inTiny Tina’s Wonderlands, and shields can easily fit both into the lore and mechanics of the series. There is also a lot of space for new grenade mods, as so far only a handful of Vault Hunters have had abilities that interact with them.
Expanding the Lore of Pangolin and Anshin
What and Who Drives These Two Corporations?
So far, there is virtually no information about Anshin and Pangolin, only passing mentions and rare quotes. Anshin primarily focuses on shields and medical assistance, providing their clients with means to protect themselves and restore their health. Pangolin, on the other hand, focuses more on heavy armor, made to withstand a lot of damage. Both corporations are known to supply civilians and military organizations alike.
Given the prominence of other corporationssuch as Hyperion and Atlasand their role in the world’s politics and the games’ stories, it would be interesting to see where the shield manufacturers fit into the picture. Zane, a Vault Hunter from the third game, mentions working for Anshin during his mercenary days, so there is definitely more to the company than meets the eye.
TheBorderlandsseries needs a strong new game,and a fresh start might do the series a lot of good. While the third installment has been praised from a mechanical standpoint, there was quite a lot of controversy surrounding the narrative direction. Focusing on other areas of the world would allow for the introduction of many new characters, and give the players a new perspective on their beloved setting.
Borderlands 3
WHERE TO PLAY
The original shooter-looter returns, packing bazillions of guns and an all-new mayhem-fueled adventure! Blast through new worlds and enemies as one of four brand new Vault Hunters – the ultimate treasure-seeking badasses of the Borderlands, each with deep skill trees, abilities, and customization. Play solo or join with friends to take on insane enemies, score loads of loot and save your home from the most ruthless cult leaders in the galaxy.A MAYHEM-FUELED THRILL RIDEStop the fanatical Calypso Twins from uniting the bandit clans and claiming the galaxy’s ultimate power. Only you, a thrill-seeking Vault Hunter, have the arsenal and allies to take them down.YOUR VAULT HUNTER, YOUR PLAYSTYLEBecome one of four extraordinary Vault Hunters, each with unique abilities, playstyles, deep skill trees, and tons of personalization options. All Vault Hunters are capable of awesome mayhem alone, but together they are unstoppable.LOCK, LOAD, AND LOOTWith bazillions of guns and gadgets, every fight is an opportunity to score new gear. Firearms with self-propelling bullet shields? Check. Rifles that spawn fire-spewing volcanoes? Obviously. Guns that grow legs and chase down enemies while hurling verbal insults? Yeah, got that too.NEW BORDERLANDSDiscover new worlds beyond Pandora, each featuring unique environments to explore and enemies to destroy. Tear through hostile deserts, battle your way across war-torn cityscapes, navigate deadly bayous, and more! QUICK & SEAMLESS CO-OP ACTIONPlay with anyone at any time online or in split-screen co-op, regardless of your level or mission progress. Take down enemies and challenges as a team, but reap rewards that are yours alone – no one misses out on loot.
