Borderlands 2.0
This game is Borderlands 2.0 in every sense. Gearbox had the technology and they improved upon the original Borderlands in gameplay, story, and badassery! (Yes, I know it's overused in the game and yes, I'm going to use it anyways)
The new classes feel more balanced than their 1.0 equivalents. The class system once again, puts an interesting spin on the FPS-genre as each class's skill-set is designed to break the mold of your modern shooter. Your basic 4 skills as each class are as follows: turret, going berserk, dropping a decoy and going invisible, or temporarily disabling an opponent. Each is satisfying to use and even more satisfying when they fit perfectly in your playstyle as you won't even notice it. However, regardless of your class, nothing is more satisfying than finding a slightly-overpowered-for-your-level gun and celebrating by plowing through enemies that gave you trouble earlier. Depending on your luck, you'll be coasting from mission to mission riding on a wave of well-balanced loot (you might even run out of inventory space). Don't be fooled, proper gearing can be what makes or breaks your ability to complete the next boss battle or mission objective.
Game-play aside, the visuals and environment remind you of the Pandora you use to know with a slight twist. For newcomers to the series, the environments are unique and engaging while the landmarks and background offer you a change in perspective as you see them first far away and then close in on them. The soundtrack is compelling and pick one: epic/bad-ass/awesome (you get the picture). During combat, the in-game music and sound effects subtly adapt to your current situation in-game. The feeling you get when the heavy drums stop right after you finish off the last enemy is pure relief.
The design of the levels make sure your vision is drawn towards the main attractions but filling out your map is totally up to you. What I will say is that even the slightest wandering will generally yield rewards of extra loot or hidden locations and even the occasional Easter eggs. The vehicles are fun to drive and use. They pack a punch and there are 4 to choose from (not counting color customization).
If you're looking for an FPS that plays like an RPG and has fun and engaging gameplay and a great loot system. Check out Borderlands 2! If you've got friends, even better (as long as you can split the loot evenly, muahahahahaha).
My criticisms for the game are that the single player campaign sometimes feels lonely, especially when you're under-geared or under-leveled for your current mission (at these points the game can also feel repetitive as you grind for levels and loot). In addition, the game offers a high amount of customization for your character's appearance but without a 3rd- person mode only your friends can appreciate them.
-lonely single player
-can be repetitive
-no dedicated 3rd person view (opening your menu puts you in 3rd person)
