Developed by the Chinese company Surgical Scalpels, Boundary introduces players to a unique multiplayer experience set in a zero-gravity environment, combining elements of first-person shooter (FPS) gameplay with tactical strategy. Boundary offers a one of a kind blend of features that is barely seen in gaming.
Simulating Space Warfare
Boundary features a 6-DOF (six degrees of freedom) movement system that allows players to freely move and rotate in any direction in the zero-gravity environment. Players can use their thrusters to accelerate, decelerate, strafe, roll, pitch and yaw. They can also use their grappling hooks to latch onto objects or enemies. In a match you’ll notice how much you float about, knock into structures unexpectedly and end up aiming upside down. The developers have done a great job of translating the lack of gravity into satisfying FPS mechanics. Traditional sprinting is replaced by a burst of O2 launching you in a specific direction, recovering from shots is replaced by repairing ruptures in your suit.
Astroperators
The game puts you in the shoes of Astroperators. Players can customize their Astroperators with different suits, helmets, weapons and gadgets. There are five classes of Astroperators: Assault, Recon, Medic, Sniper and Support. Each class has its own unique abilities and roles in the team.
- Leeway: A deadly accurate sniper, Leeway utilizes an auxiliary arm for steady aim, and the ability to minimize recoil for a short time.
- Vodka: A rifle-toting damage dealer that offers a balanced kit featuring skills to temporarily improve his combat abilities and a grappling hook to tear him through enemy defenses at a blink.
- Spiker: Nimble and an ace of stealth, Spiker is able to launch deadly melee attacks and turn off electrical devices.
- Fixer: Capable of turning the tide of battle with her drones, Fixer is able to automatically repair nearby allies and in certain modes, is able to bring teammates back to life remotely.
- Shielder: An imposing presence on the battlefield, the most heavily armored Astroperator is equipped with a machine gun and ballistic shield.
- Probe: Searching for every tactical advantage, Probe is a specialist at gathering information. Tracking missiles and detectors capable of locking down enemy signals round out Probes kit.
Weapon Customization
Boundary is fundamentally an FPS on space so without good weapon customization an FPS can feel very lacking. Fortunately Boundary has a robust weapon customization system which is also tied to player progression. Players can also customize their weapons with different attachments, such as scopes, barrels, magazines, grips and skins. There are various types of weapons to choose from, such as assault rifles, shotguns, pistols, sniper rifles and grenade launchers. Each weapon has its own stats and characteristics, such as damage, accuracy, recoil and fire rate.
Early Access and Current state
Currently, Boundary is in early access and will stay that way for the next 6 to 12 months according to the devs. On its early access launch Boundary received mostly positive reception from the community. The game was praised for its zero gravity gameplay mechanics, sound design, and diverse customization options. After a few days of release the server issues became apparent with high ping for NA players as the game had no region locking. The game also suffered from a lack of content with very basic run-of-the-mill game modes at launch. At the time of writing Boundary has a very low player population, but the devs have promised fixes for these issues and new content. Region locking was added within a few weeks of backlash so that means the devs are listening to the community.
Hopefully Boundary is able to bounce back till its full release. According to their own timeline the devs have plenty of time to iron out the games issues, add more content, and focus more on marketing the game, so it can attract a wider audience.
If you enjoyed this post, be sure to check out more content on Poggers Memes. Enjoy cooperative games? You can check out the best 5 Warframes for a beginner in the new Duviri Paradox update. Or. take a look at Wayfinder, another upcoming co-op RPG.