With the Borderlands source, Telltales’ writers have a nigh-limitless well of odd technology and even stranger people to keep the game engaging.Īlthough Telltale introduces some fresh ideas in terms of gameplay, the core is faithful to their standard design. Most of the episode takes place on Pandora chasing the Vault Key and money as Rhys and friends encounter bandits, psychos, vault hunters, and blatant references to hit movies. After a major setback sends him chasing a Vault Key on Pandora, Rhys encounters the other playable protagonist, Fiona, who is a con-artist alongside her sister Sasha. One of the leads is Rhys, a company man who vies for power in Hyperion alongside his partner-in-crime Vaughn. Those who want a deep, gritty plot with woebegone characters should venture into the world of The Wolf Among Us and The Walking Dead. Telltale buried quite a few easter eggs, as well. I smiled throughout my trek into the wastelands when I wasn’t laughing at the dialogue and voice acting. Regarding its humor, TftB is somewhere between laugh-out-loud funny and hilarious. Those who enjoy the wacky, larger-than-life calamity will find much the same here. If I had not known Telltale was involved in this game, I would have assumed that Gearbox had written it, because the atmosphere and style are pure, unadulterated Borderlands. Regarding the rest of the Telltale formula, high-quality dialogue options, timers, and the occasional roaming remain constants. The QTE enhance immersion and create tension.
For instance, TftB uses Quick-Time-Events more effectively.
To those not convinced by a couple of sentences, let me assure you that Telltale not only understands the Borderlands universe, but also clearly understands more fully how to accept its community’s feedback.
Full of refined design, steps into new territory, and bountiful dialogue choices as Rhys and company pursue bounty, fans of Telltale’s recent formula and devotees of Pandora should stop reading this review and buy the series now. After my first two-to-three hour romp in their take on the Borderlands universe, I’m already hankering for the next installment. Thus begins Tales from the Borderlands, episode one of a five part series in what will likely be another hit from Telltale Games. After some narration, the camera pans to Rhys (you), who is getting dragged through the barren wastelands by his captor in a conical hat and mask.