Although Battleborn’s lifespan was relatively short (servers were shut down in 2021), its unique approach to the hero shooter genre earns it a place on this list. Developed by Gearbox Software and released in 2016, Battleborn combined elements of hero shooters, MOBAs, and cooperative gameplay to create a distinct experience.

Battleborn featured a diverse roster of 25 playable characters, each with unique abilities and playstyles. What set it apart was its in-match progression system, where players would level up their character during each match, choosing between different augments to enhance their abilities. This MOBA-like feature added a layer of strategy and adaptation to the hero shooter formula.

The game offered both competitive multiplayer modes and a story-driven cooperative campaign. The multiplayer component included traditional team-based modes as well as more MOBA-inspired gameplay, where players would guide AI-controlled minions to destroy the enemy’s base. The cooperative campaign allowed up to five players to fight together against AI enemies in story missions, providing a unique PvE experience in the hero shooter space.

Battleborn’s art style was colorful and distinctive, with a sci-fi fantasy setting that allowed for a wide range of creative character designs. From sentient mushroom assassins to penguin-piloted mechs, the game’s roster was one of the most eclectic in the genre.

One of Battleborn’s most innovative features was its approach to storytelling within a multiplayer framework. The game’s lore was deep and engaging, with each character having their own backstory and motivations. The cooperative campaign and even the competitive modes were woven into an overarching narrative about saving the last star in the universe.

Despite its innovative features and Gearbox’s pedigree, Battleborn struggled to find a large player base, partly due to releasing close to Overwatch and facing stiff competition in the hero shooter market. However, those who did play Battleborn often praised its depth, humor, and unique blend of genres.

While Battleborn is no longer playable, its legacy lives on in the ideas it brought to the hero shooter genre. Its blend of MOBA elements, cooperative storytelling, and diverse character roster showcased the potential for innovation within the hero shooter framework.