Borderlands The Pre-Sequel – Letdowns
Borderlands The Pre-Sequel – Letdowns
It's more of a supplementary experience rather than a complete continuation, similar to how Dynasty and Samurai Warriors feature Xtreme Legends and Empires or Battlefield: Hardline exists. If Borderlands 3 comes after Battle Royale 2, I'd expect a new interface and inventory system. Metal Gear Solid 2 and 3 had comparable HUDs, while MGS3 introduced a stamina bar.
It's easy to adjust things like the HUD, but it feels quite sloppy in my mind and reminds me of GoW: Judgement *shudders*
They might modify the system because they believe it needs updates beyond just visual tweaks. The BL2 HUD represented a meaningful upgrade over the earlier version, yet beyond cosmetic adjustments there aren't substantial improvements to focus on. The recent additions—like new element types, character abilities, oxygen mechanics, and lower gravity—represent a shift in direction that could distract from core priorities. For the current team, which is already stretched thin, these changes seem unnecessary and a distraction from more pressing development goals. Expressing dissatisfaction with the HUD feels like an overreaction compared to these broader enhancements.
Ocarina of Time and Majora's Mask succeeded without much attention from critics back then. Yet, MM was meant to be an expansion, and some argue Hardline is just a rebranded version of Battlefield 4. Still, developers sometimes overlook issues when the HUD looks perfect—like MGS2's design mirrored MGS1, hinting at future changes, and MGS3's white HUD stood out against its jungle setting. Considering The Pre-Sequel predates BL2, it makes sense they maintained a similar style. A major HUD overhaul in The Pre-Sequel would have seemed odd, especially if BL3 simply copied BL2's interface and placed it 1000 years later. It would have been surprising if technology didn't progress at all.
Imagine it as an enormous expansion pack, similar to Far Cry 3: Blood Dragon.
It seems logical that since it builds on existing material, the experience will feel familiar yet fresh. I anticipate some updates beyond just new content, especially in the user interface for Borderlands 3. I spent a significant amount—about 300 to 400 hours—playing Borderlands 2 with friends and found it engaging. I’m curious if the prequel will maintain that level of excitement, but I’m hoping it delivers at least 100 hours of fun.
As long as it doesn’t cost the full price and feels comparable to the Blood Dragon price in Far Cry 3, I’ll purchase it. The BL2 inventory and HUD are quite solid.