Borderlands 2 Mechromancer DLC Now Available

Borderlands 2 is getting a new class earlier than expected. Gearbox announced the Mechromancer downloadable content package for their hit shooter will be available today.

Players will now be able to download a new character named Gaige. The new Mechromancer class was originally supposed to arrive on Oct. 16.

The content is free to all players who pre-ordered Borderlands 2 and were entered into the Premiere Club. Those who do not meet those qualifications can purchase the additional class for $9.99 or 800 Microsoft Points.

Gamers wanting to plan their character ahead of time can visit the official Borderlands 2 site. An image featuring the entire skill tree for Gaige has been posted. Players will have the opportunity to choose between three different skill branches.

Gaige is a gadget lover who uses technology to her advantage. The result is a class mixed between human and machine. Gaige has the help of a robot friend called Death Trap that can be sent out at any time. The robot can draw enemy fire, clearing the way for players to take out enemies. Death Trap can also be used to supply Gaige and her buddies with supplies and ammo.

The Mechromancer becomes the fifth class to be available in Borderlands 2. It joins the Assassin, Commando, Gunzerker and Siren. Early stages of the new class began with some sketches when the game was still in development. Gearbox started to make Gaige a reality after the game was completed and up for certification. The developer originally expected to have the new character ready for release 60 to 90 days after the game hit store shelves.

Borderlands 2 released on Sept. 18 to stellar reviews. It is a dynamic first-person shooter designed for addictive co-op play. The game also adds role-playing elements to make it a unique title. The weapons system allows for various possibilities for choosing and modifying guns, in addition to generated shields and grenades. Plus, the presentation style is rivaled by no other game.

The game received a 90 percent score on Gaming Illustrated from Kalvin Martinez. Gaming Illustrated is giving away a copy of the game to one lucky person. For more details, check out the sweepstakes page.