Why Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora Outshines the Biggest PlayStation Exclusive

Fans were recently treated to the first glimpse of Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora gameplay, and it's safe to say that the long wait was worth it. While some may argue that the game's general gameplay loop resembles that of Far Cry, the ability to soar through the skies on the back of a Banshee and marvel at the floating mountains is sure to captivate fans of the franchise and justify the cost of entry.

However, that's just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora's offerings. In addition to an extensive RPG skill tree, customizable weapons and outfits, and a compelling storyline that pays homage to the original Avatar film, the game boasts a breathtaking open-world that rivals even the best exclusives on PlayStation.

Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora Shares a Big Strength with Horizon: Forbidden West

Ubisoft has finally released a 6-minute gameplay trailer for Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora, much to the delight of fans who have been patiently waiting for years. The game's story follows a Na'vi who was captured by the RDA when they were young, and forced to fight alongside them before being abandoned in Pandora's Western Frontier. Players will need to unite the various Na'vi clans and lead the fight against the RDA, using both human and Na'vi weapons to destroy facilities and restore peace to the planet. The trailer showcases impressive moments such as aerial acrobatics on a Banshee, riding a Direhorse across the plains, and taking down an RDA gunship with a bow and arrow. However, what stands out the most is the stunning and vibrant setting of the game, reminiscent of James Cameron's original Avatar movie. The floating cliffs, bioluminescent plants, neon-speckled creatures, and lush greenery are all defining features of the Avatar franchise and are sure to captivate players.

Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora is a visually stunning game that captures the unique look and feel of the Avatar world. The game's first gameplay trailer features iconic and authentic Avatar imagery, showcasing the world's foliage, from gigantic trees that connect to floating cliffs to flowers that collapse when touched. The game's vibrant yet realistic environments, sweeping vistas, and gorgeous lighting are reminiscent of Horizon: Forbidden West, which also prided itself on its noteworthy plants and trees.

In addition to its stunning visuals, Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora's foliage has a practical use in gameplay. Players can pick fruit and harvest trees and wildlife, which gives them crafting materials to make new weapons and upgrade existing ones. It's likely that the game will also have a weapon and cosmetic dying system, allowing players to change the appearance of their weapons and outfits by harvesting specific plants. The game also integrates its foliage into traversal systems, with the player-character bouncing off mushrooms and climbing retracting vines. With the Avatar franchise's focus on nature, it's great to see Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora incorporating this theme into the gameplay.

Avatar: Frontiers of Pandora is set to release December 7, 2023, for PC, PS5, and Xbox Series X/S.