Borderlands The Pre Sequel Claptrap Character And Story Details
Borderlands: The Pre-Sequel brought a massive shift to the franchise by officially turning the iconic series mascot, Claptrap, into a fully playable Vault Hunter class. Known in-game under the designation Fragtrap, this enthusiastic yellow robot offers players an unpredictable and humorous playstyle while granting a deeper look into his tragic background. Exploring his role in the game reveals both chaotic combat mechanics and essential storyline lore that bridging the gap between major releases.
Claptrap's Unpredictable VaultHunter.EXE Ability
Claptrap's primary action skill in The Pre-Sequel is VaultHunter.EXE, an experimental program that analyzes the current battlefield state. Upon activation, the software selects a random action package that grants temporary abilities mimicking other famous Vault Hunters or bizarre combat modes. Players might suddenly find themselves wielding dual pistols like Salvador or turning into a high-powered pirate ship with firing cannons.
This erratic action skill brings immense variety to gameplay, though it occasionally introduces unexpected hazards for teammates. Certain combat packages can force allies to bounce around uncontrollably or toss grenades against their control. Despite the chaos, the action skill also refills Claptrap's health and shields instantly, giving him powerful survival tools during intense firefights.
Unique Robotic Traits and Environmental Passive Perks
Playing as a mechanical hero alters several basic movement and environmental rules compared to human characters. Since Claptrap is a machine, he does not require oxygen to breathe, allowing players to explore airless moons without worrying about suffocating. His single-wheel movement gives him smooth ground locomotion, though he retains the full ability to jump, sprint, and climb ladders across hazardous terrain.
Claptrap's lower camera perspective mirrors his compact height relative to other party members. He can also utilize special air slams freely without rapidly depleting an O2 kit reserve. These passive perks make exploring Elpis a distinct experience for anyone taking control of the Fragtrap class.
Narrative Arc and The Tragic Claptastic Voyage
Beyond his comedic dialog, Claptrap plays a central role in Handsome Jack's rise to power throughout the story campaign. Initially hired alongside other mercenaries, Claptrap remains loyal to Jack despite enduring constant disrespect from those around him. His arc reaches a critical climax in the dedicated story expansion, Claptastic Voyage, where Vault Hunters are digitized directly into his mind.
Inside Claptrap's psyche, players uncover his suppressed memories, internal insecurities, and struggle against his dark inner program, 5H4D0W-TP. Once the mission is completed and the mysterious H-Source software is retrieved, Handsome Jack repays Claptrap by ordering the destruction of his entire product line. Left for dead in a frozen wasteland, Claptrap barely survives, setting up his lonely presence in Borderlands 2.
Why Claptrap Remains an Iconic Franchise Mascot
Claptrap's journey in The Pre-Sequel offers the perfect balance of hilarious gameplay and surprisingly emotional storytelling. By letting players experience his bizarre powers and tragic history firsthand, developers added lasting depth to the beloved character. For long-time fans, mastering his chaotic kit remains one of the most entertaining adventures in the entire Borderlands universe.