In this exclusive interview, Sharkmob co-founder and Exoborne narrative director Martin Hultberg dives deep into the innovative features of their upcoming extraction shooter.
Hultberg explains how Exoborne aims to revolutionize the genre with dynamic weather systems, customizable Exo-Rigs, and a more approachable progression system.
Weather as a game-changer
Hultberg emphasizes that Exoborne‘s standout feature is its “apocalyptic forces of nature.” Unlike traditional shooters, weather in Exoborne isn’t just a visual backdrop—it’s an integral part of the gameplay.
“Everything related to weather affects the gameplay in our world,” Hultberg explains in the interview.
For example, players might find themselves in the middle of a tornado getting blown away. Even something common like rain makes it hard to hear other players, changing the dynamics of an encounter.
And structures called STRATOS Towers can be used by players to manipulate the weather. All players will experience multiple weather changes over the course of one game session, requiring them to adapt accordingly to secure victory.
This dynamic weather system ensures that no two matches play out the same way, constantly challenging players to adapt their strategies.
A different Exo-Rig for each player style
Exoborne takes a unique approach to character customization through the Exo-Rigs that players will wear. These will determine the kind of play style to adopt.
They are:
- Light (Kestrel): Emphasizes mobility and aerial maneuvers
- Medium (Viper): Balances mobility and firepower
- Heavy (Kodiak): Focuses on strong weapons and armor for front-line combat
Players must carefully consider their Exo-Rig choices, both individually and as a team, to maximize their chances of success.
Sharkmob’s balancing act between approachability and ‘hardcore’
Hultberg shared insights into Sharkmob’s commitment to game balance via their rigorous playtesting process, aimed at catching and fixing any overpowered elements before the full release.
He also delves into the complexities of matchmaking, explaining how the game aims to create fair matches by considering factors such as player skill, equipment, gaming history, map experience, among others.
The team wants to maintain the genre’s signature “high risk, high reward” gameplay, but has ingeniously introduced a progression system.
All this paves the way to making Exoborne more approachable than traditional extraction shooters.
The team wants to maintain the genre’s signature “high risk, high reward” gameplay, but has ingeniously introduced a progression system that allows players to retain certain rewards even after death.
This innovative approach aims to give players a sense of constant progression, making the game more welcoming to newcomers while still satisfying genre veterans.
Jump into the ongoing playtests
Players interested in being part of Exoborne’s development can sign up on the Exoborne website for the latest news and upcoming test opportunities.
