Exoborne Is an Extraction Shooter With a Twist(er)

Exoborne: A High-Octane Extraction Shooter with a Powerful Punch

Exoborne, an upcoming extraction shooter, refines the genre's core tenets – get in, grab the loot, and escape – by introducing powerful Exo-Rigs, dynamic weather effects, and grappling hooks. A recent preview session provided a compelling 4-5 hour experience, hinting at a strong contender in the extraction shooter market.

The Exo-Rigs are central to Exoborne's unique identity. Three distinct rigs are currently available: the Kodiak (focused on defense and powerful ground slams), the Viper (emphasizing aggressive combat and health regeneration), and the Kerstrel (prioritizing mobility and aerial maneuvers). Each rig can be customized with unique modules to further enhance its abilities. While the limited selection of rigs feels restrictive, the developer, Shark Mob, remains tight-lipped about future additions.

Gameplay is smooth and satisfying. Weapons possess a weighty feel, melee attacks are impactful, and the grappling hook adds a dynamic layer to traversal, surpassing the limitations of traditional movement. Unpredictable weather events introduce strategic challenges. Tornadoes boost aerial mobility, while rain renders parachutes ineffective, forcing ground-based maneuvers. Fire tornadoes offer a risky but potentially rewarding traversal option.

Risk and Reward: The Core Gameplay Loop

Risk versus reward is woven into Exoborne's fabric. A 20-minute timer initiates upon entry, triggering a location broadcast to all players after it expires. Players then have 10 minutes to extract, or face elimination. Early extraction yields less loot, while extended stays increase rewards, but also risk. Loot is abundant, scattered throughout the environment, on enemies, and even on fallen players. High-value artifacts, requiring keys for access, are heavily contested, creating intense player-versus-player (PvP) encounters. Similarly, high-reward areas are heavily guarded by powerful AI, demanding strategic planning and risk assessment.

Even death isn't the end. Self-revives and teammate revives offer a lifeline, though these require time and expose players to further danger.

Concerns and Future Outlook

Two key concerns emerged from the preview. Firstly, Exoborne strongly favors cooperative play. While solo and random squad options exist, they detract from the optimal experience. This limitation, coupled with the game's paid model, might deter casual players lacking a dedicated squad.

Secondly, the late-game remains undefined. While PvP encounters were engaging, the intervals between them felt lengthy. The developer's focus on future PvP development needs clarification to ensure consistent engagement.

Exoborne's PC playtest (February 12-17) will provide further insight into its long-term potential. The core gameplay loop is undeniably exciting, but the success of Exoborne hinges on addressing the concerns regarding squad-based play and late-game content.