Ancient Precursors: Before Borderlands There was S.T.A.L.K.E.R.: Shadow of Chernobyl

I got amused that I totally forgot about one of the apparent inspirations for Borderlands. Released in 2007, the first-person shooter put players in the role of a mercenary-scavenger who has to delve into the ruins of Chernobyl, a radioactive "hotspot" that's spewing out mutants and creating paranormal activities. The game is a shooter-RPG hybrid in that it features an inventory system; players can fill this with loot they'll scrounge up in the course of the game.

Borderlands might offer unique cel-shaded visuals set in a post-holocaust setting but years before it got released, the first S.T.A.L.K.E.R. (yes, it is now a series!) rocked the gaming world with its immersive atmosphere, player-controlled plots, and---need I say it?---multiple endings. It must be the closest thing to Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion with guns.

(Borderlands fans: don't get me wrong. I play the game too. With teammates who revive you, coordinate with each other, Borderlands is a blast to play! This is just a tribute to one of the innovative "elders" of the gaming industry.)

Gamespot's video review (back when Jason Ocampo was still with them --- is he Pinoy?) after the jump.