Is There a Siren in the Pre-Sequel?

Understanding the Essence of Sirens

Sirens. They are whispered about, feared, and revered in the Borderlands universe. These women, blessed (or cursed, depending on perspective) with extraordinary, almost godlike powers, have become a central pillar of the series’ lore. Their abilities defy the natural laws of Pandora and beyond, manipulating space, matter, and even time itself. But when the action shifts to the prequel, taking us back to the moon of Elpis, home to the Hyperion Corporation and a pre-Pandora-exploding atmosphere, we must ask ourselves: Was there a Siren among the Vault Hunters and villains of *Borderlands: The Pre-Sequel*? The answer, like the sirens themselves, is far from simple.

Defining the Siren

Before delving into the specifics of *Borderlands: The Pre-Sequel*, it’s vital to fully grasp what makes a Siren. These are not mere humans; they are a rare breed, touched by a mysterious power, that manifests as extraordinary abilities. Sirens are almost exclusively women, though the reasons for this gendered manifestation are still shrouded in mystery.

The Source of Siren Power

The source of a Siren’s powers is frequently linked to the enigmatic substance known as Eridium. This glowing purple substance, which litters the landscapes of Pandora and beyond, seems to resonate with their latent abilities, enhancing and amplifying their power. The true nature of the connection between Sirens and Eridium, however, is one of the franchise’s biggest mysteries.

Siren Abilities and Examples

The most recognizable Siren abilities include Phase Shift, Phase Walk, and telekinesis. Phase Shift allows a Siren to teleport themselves, briefly entering another dimension before reappearing. This can be used for both offense and defense. Phase Walk, a similar ability, allows Sirens to temporarily turn intangible, phasing through objects and dodging attacks. Telekinesis lets them manipulate objects with their mind, including projectiles and even people.

In the original *Borderlands* game, we meet Lilith, a fiery Siren known for her Phase Walk, who becomes a key player in the Vault Hunter team. *Borderlands 2* introduces us to Maya, who could trap enemies with her Phase Lock ability. We also learned more about Angel, a Siren who was under the control of Handsome Jack, using her powers to power the Vault Keys. The power of Sirens is something to be respected.

The Characters of Elpis and Their Roles

*Borderlands: The Pre-Sequel* took us to the moon of Elpis, where we experience the events leading up to the original *Borderlands* game. Instead of the familiar world of Pandora, we explored its desolate moon, home to zero gravity and oxygen scarcity, while also encountering key characters from *Borderlands 2*. The game offers us the chance to play as several Vault Hunters, each with their unique skills and specializations.

Wilhelm, the Enforcer

Wilhelm, the imposing Enforcer, is a playable character from *The Pre-Sequel* that focuses on technological augmentations. He uses drones and other automated weaponry to support his attacks.

Athena, the Gladiator

Athena, the Gladiator, offers a more direct, melee-focused approach. She wields a unique shield that allows her to absorb damage and reflect it back at her enemies. Athena provides essential connections to the future Borderlands story.

Nisha, the Lawbringer

Nisha, the Lawbringer, can utilize skills that enhance her aim, making her an exceptionally skilled gunfighter. Her abilities focus on critical hits, and her presence is an early glimpse into the future relationship with the main antagonist.

Claptrap

Then we have the most chaotic of the group, the unique Claptrap, a very helpful robot that many players love. This robot gives us a new and unpredictable form of gameplay.

As players journey through the challenges on Elpis and in space, each Vault Hunter uncovers parts of the story and expands the story of the future Borderlands universe. The characters of *The Pre-Sequel* also play an essential role in events that follow.

The Siren of The Pre-Sequel: A Revealing Discovery

So, is there a Siren in *Borderlands: The Pre-Sequel*? The answer, thankfully, isn’t as straightforward as a simple yes or no. While the game doesn’t introduce a brand new, previously unknown Siren, it does feature a character who is absolutely essential to the Siren lineage and a true embodiment of power and the unknown.

The Siren in *Borderlands: The Pre-Sequel* is none other than… Angel, the very same young girl we learn about in *Borderlands 2*. This makes perfect sense, as the Pre-Sequel fills in many gaps in the main story.

In *Borderlands 2*, it’s revealed that Angel is the daughter of the antagonist, Handsome Jack, and that she is forced to use her Siren abilities to power the Vault Keys and fuel the Hyperion Corporation’s nefarious plans. *The Pre-Sequel* deepens this connection by taking the player through the events that precede *Borderlands 2*, and by revealing more about Handsome Jack’s control over Angel and the true scope of her powers.

Analyzing Angel’s Powers and Their Significance

Angel, as the Siren in *Borderlands: The Pre-Sequel*, showcases powers unlike those of her peers. Her powers manifest in several ways, some of which aren’t directly visible, and others that control vast quantities of space. Her abilities are used to control and open vaults across the galaxy.

In *The Pre-Sequel*, Angel’s powers are initially hinted at and shown indirectly. As the story progresses, we learn more about how Handsome Jack has kept her imprisoned and how he exploits her powers. She essentially becomes a living weapon, a battery that can open Vaults and manipulate Eridium. It’s a tragic tale of a child forced to use her immense power for a cruel purpose.

Angel is a crucial element to the story. In the course of the game, you’re helping Jack get to Angel and power up her. The whole story of the Pre-Sequel is about Handsome Jack.

The Siren’s Impact and the Larger Narrative

Angel’s presence in *The Pre-Sequel* is pivotal, not only for her abilities but also for her influence on the overall storyline. Her actions directly cause many of the events in the future of the franchise.

By witnessing her early life under the control of Handsome Jack, players understand the depths of his cruelty and the consequences of his actions. The game also provides crucial background for understanding her later involvement with the events of *Borderlands 2*, when she becomes an unwilling pawn in Jack’s schemes. The events on Elpis act as a catalyst for her ultimate fate in *Borderlands 2*, and for the actions of the other Sirens. Her existence is tied to the future of Pandora and the Vault Hunters.

Furthermore, *The Pre-Sequel* sheds light on the complex relationship between Sirens and the enigmatic corporation, Hyperion. Angel’s use as a power source for Hyperion highlights the lengths to which corporations and individuals will go in their pursuit of power, regardless of the consequences for innocent people, especially a powerful Siren.

Connecting the Pieces: The Siren’s Long-Lasting Legacy

The events of *The Pre-Sequel* have a direct influence on the future of the Borderlands universe. Angel’s capture, the nature of her powers, and her tragic fate are all interconnected with the storyline of *Borderlands 2*, and even with the events of *Borderlands 3*.

When Angel is forced to destroy herself to save the universe, the ripple effects are felt across the franchise. The loss of Angel is a devastating moment, fueling the rage and grief of the Vault Hunters, and further revealing the extent of Handsome Jack’s evil. The loss of a Siren is also a threat to the future. This is how the Sirens’ long-term impact is felt across the Borderlands franchise.

Her loss has a significant impact on the future. Her death motivates the events of *Borderlands 3*, which features a new generation of Sirens.

Conclusion

So, *is there a Siren in the Pre-Sequel*? The answer is a resounding yes! While not a new Siren character in the traditional sense, Angel’s presence is essential. Her story, her powers, and her role in the narrative of *Borderlands: The Pre-Sequel* are vital for understanding the broader scope of the Borderlands universe and the ongoing conflicts between the Sirens, the Vault Hunters, and the numerous other characters. Her story is one of power, manipulation, and ultimately, a tragic sacrifice.

By understanding her story, we can get a better understanding of the story of the Sirens as a whole. The legacy of the Sirens, the powers they wield, and the impact they have on the world of Borderlands will continue for many years to come.