Exoborne: A Revolutionary Extraction Shooter Unveiled

Exoborne: A High-Octane Extraction Shooter with Exo-Suit Action

Get in, grab the loot, and get out – the core principle of any extraction shooter, and Exoborne is no exception. However, Exoborne elevates this formula with powerful Exo-Rigs boosting strength and mobility, dynamic weather effects, and the ever-popular grappling hook. After a 4-5 hour preview, while not immediately craving "one more run," Exoborne shows strong potential within the genre.

The Exo-Rigs are central to Exoborne's identity. Three distinct rigs are currently available: the Kodiak (shield during sprints, powerful ground slam), the Viper (health regeneration on kills, powerful melee), and the Kerstrel (enhanced mobility, jump height, and temporary hover). Each rig features unique, customizable modules further enhancing their abilities. The Kodiak's combination of grappling hook swings and ground slams proved particularly satisfying, although the limited number of rigs feels restrictive. Future rig additions remain unconfirmed by developer Shark Mob.

Gunplay is satisfying, with weighty recoil and impactful melee attacks. The grappling hook adds dynamic traversal, surpassing the limitations of traditional movement. Weather events introduce unpredictable challenges and opportunities; tornadoes boost aerial mobility, while rain renders parachutes ineffective. Fire tornadoes offer a risky but rewarding traversal option.

Risk vs. Reward Mechanics

Risk and reward are fundamental to Exoborne's design. A 20-minute timer triggers a location broadcast to all players, initiating a 10-minute extraction window. Early extraction yields less loot, while extended stays increase rewards. Loot is scattered throughout the environment, with player elimination offering the greatest potential gains.

Artifacts, high-value loot boxes requiring keys, are marked on the map, inevitably leading to player conflict. Heavily guarded high-value areas further incentivize risk-taking for substantial rewards. The system fosters tense gameplay and encourages squad communication. Downed players aren't immediately eliminated; self-revives and teammate revives offer a chance for comeback, though vulnerable to enemy ambushes.

Two key concerns emerged from the preview. Exoborne strongly favors coordinated squads; solo play or random matchmaking are less than ideal, especially considering its paid status. This is a common issue in the genre, but a drawback for casual players.

The lack of late-game details is another concern. While PVP encounters were engaging, the extended periods between them raise questions about long-term appeal. The developer's focus on PVP in the late game requires further elaboration.

Exoborne's PC playtest (February 12-17) will offer further insights into its potential.