While there was plenty to love aboutBorderlands 3, fans and critics alike were a bit less positive on the game’s story. However, though issues were raised about character deaths and some underdeveloped villains, aBorderlands 3fan is more bothered by a possible plot hole.
The plot hole in question is tied to the annoying-but-iconicBorderlandscharacter Claptrap, a figure that has been with the series from the very beginning. InBorderlands 2, one of the biggest jokes of the game is tied to Claptrap’s hatred of stairs and his inability to defeat them due to the wheel he uses to get around. The reveal of his greatest weakness not only makes for an effective joke at the end of the game, but established a running gag for the franchise.
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With Claptrap’s issues with stairs being well-documented and a vital part of his character, aBorderlands 3player named Classic-Act_4415 was confused by his appearance in the game. Specifically, how he gets around the complex hub area that is Sanctuary 3. The Crimson Raiders’ spaceship is filled with stairs, leading up to the bridge, the bar run byMad Moxxibridge, and Ellie’s garage. With Claptrap having a room in Ellie’s Garage and regularly being seen on the bridge, it is odd that he is seemingly able to traverse stairs.
While the post was likely made in jest despite the Redditor claiming otherwise, as this supposed plot hole does not damage the story in any significant way, it still sparked some fun discussion. For example, Redditor Appolonius101 provided several theories as to how Claptrap can get around the ship. One suggests that he stole a teleportation device, likely from Tannis, while another idea is that Sanctuary 3 is full of hidden lifts that the robot can use to move between areas. Perhaps the best idea is that Claptrap commands his “minions,” which could beVault Huntersor Crimson Raiders members, to carry him up the stairs.
Others point out how it likely is not a plot hole since Claptrap tells Ava he learned to conquer stairs - though this could easily be a lie since he still uses a plank to help him get around in the Guns, Love, and Tentacles DLC. With I_escaped_area_51 suggesting thatTiny Tinamade him custom catapults, the theories are varied. Clearly, fans are divided on whether he really did get a stair-climbing upgrade or is finding another method of travel, making for an entertaining conversation. While the actual answer is not important, it will be interesting to see if Claptrap’s stair struggles are ever brought up again.
If Sanctuary 3 returns in the nextBorderlandsgame, perhaps fans will get a more concrete answer to the question. For now, though, the debate will likely continue.
Borderlands 3is available now on PC, PS4, PS5, Stadia, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X.
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