The core loop remains familiar - infiltrate, collect loot, exfiltrate. But Exoborne supercharges this extraction shooter formula with enhanced Exo-Rig suits, extreme weather systems, and versatile grappling gear. After playing 4-5 hours at a preview event, while I didn't leave craving another run immediately, the game shows strong potential to stand out in this competitive genre.
Powered for Battle
Exo-Rigs fundamentally shape Exoborne's unique identity. Currently three configurations exist:
- Kodiak - Deploys sprinting head protection and delivers devastating aerial slams
- Viper - Rewards aggression with health regeneration on kills and powerful melee strikes
- Kerstrel - Sacrifices offense for enhanced mobility with boosted jumps and temporary hover
Each rig supports specialized modules to further enhance their core abilities. The Kodiak's grappling-powered aerial assaults proved particularly satisfying - imagine Spider-Man swinging into battle before meteor-striking enemies. While the current selection shows promise, the three-suit limit feels restrictive, though developers at Sharkmob couldn't confirm expansion plans.
Precision Combat Mechanics
Exoborne delivers visceral first-person action with punchy weapon feedback and brutal melee impacts. The grappling hook transforms movement, allowing Batman-style glides between engagements. Dynamic weather adds tactical depth - ride tornado currents for boosted mobility, but avoid firestorms that can instantly eliminate careless players. Rainfall meanwhile neutralizes parachute functionality, forcing ground-based approaches.
Tension by Design
Every system reinforces high-risk/high-reward gameplay. Sessions begin with a 20-minute timer - when it expires, your position broadcasts to all players, forcing a 10-minute exfil window. Early extraction costs credits, but lingering increases potential rewards. Prime targets include:
- Artifacts - Multi-loot containers requiring special keys
- High-value zones - Heavily guarded by elite AI
- Other operators - Claim everything they carried
The revive system maintains engagement even after knockdowns. Self-revives enable comebacks if you act quickly, while teammates can perform risky rescues if enemies don't camp the body.
Key Considerations
Two elements gave pause during preview testing:
- Social Dependence - While solo play exists, coordinated squads clearly hold the advantage. The premium price tag may limit matchmaking viability.
- Endgame Vision - Developers remained vague about long-term progression beyond PvP comparisons. More structured post-campaign content could help retention.
PC players can evaluate Exoborne firsthand during the February 12-17 playtest window. With its dynamic movement systems and environmental interactions, Sharkmob's take on extraction shooters shows distinctive potential, assuming these foundational concerns receive attention.
