You have never played a Borderlands game? Until the official release of Borderlands 3, interested players can try out the old titles in special remastered versions. Why it’s worth it is explained by MeinMMO author Robert.
What is Borderlands anyway? Many players regard the Borderlands series as the spiritual godfather of loot shooters. Action-packed shooting sequences, a wacky story, and crazy characters form the foundation of a series that has now spawned 3 offshoots (Borderlands 1, Borderlands 2, and Borderlands: The Pre-Sequel).
The core element, however, is the hunt for better loot. Here, Borderlands operates entirely differently than more recent genre representatives like Destiny or Anthem. Because Borderlands is the originator of the term “loot rain,” as it, well, rains loot.
Where does the players’ longing for a new Borderlands come from? The announcement of Borderlands 3 was celebrated by fans tremendously. Not because the series reinvents itself and throws everything overboard, but apparently exactly what fans want: Borderlands, Borderlands, and more Borderlands.
The last installment, Borderlands: The Pre-Sequel, is now four and a half years old. The long dry spell has players craving new Borderlands content. But also the fact that Borderlands as a loot shooter does some things better than the polished competition of Destiny, The Division, Anthem, and Warframe.
Borderlands could fill a gap that no other loot shooter can. But what exactly sets Borderlands apart from the more modern genre representatives?
What sets Borderlands apart from more recent genre representatives? Games like Destiny, The Division, or Anthem share many similarities:
- Games-as-a-service approach (GaaS) – The game should ideally run for years, with regular new content releases, increasing level limits, and various mechanics providing long-term motivation
- Story is not the focus – While there is a story, it plays only a subordinate role. The focus and priority in the development of GaaS games lie in the mechanics that should keep players engaged for a long time. Additionally, the stories have an exclusively serious background.
- The loot system – All three titles are stingy with the distribution of loot. Specifically, Anthem players are currently begging the developer on their knees for more loot. Borderlands, on the other hand, follows a completely different loot philosophy.
In contrast to the “newer” competition, Borderlands takes an alternative approach in many respects. The series has always been characterized by a very entertaining, crazy, and funny storyline. The leveling process and the hunt for new loot are cleverly integrated into the story. Dozens of side missions also create a sense of exploration beyond the main paths.
Raid bosses also exist in Borderlands, though with far less refined mechanics than, for example, in Destiny. Instead, you typically face a big opponent who wants to take you down.
Even though the basic mechanics of Borderlands 3 are not yet known, the older installments offer a “classic” gaming experience consisting of the main game and expansions that advance the story and unlock new difficulty levels.
Can I play Borderlands solo? While current shooters heavily focus on coop elements, Borderlands can be wonderfully played solo. However, that doesn’t mean you have to play alone. With up to three friends, you can jump into the fight; even split-screen is possible. With at least four selectable classes, synergies can also be formed among team members, giving you an advantage in combat.
What do you not get with Borderlands? Games like Destiny 2 or The Division 2 feature competitive multiplayer modes that pit you against other human players.
While you can challenge other players in Borderlands 2, the mechanic is at best considered a gimmick and not a serious feature. A well-thought-out PvP is thus not something you get with Borderlands so far.
Even if it’s not a direct downside, the graphics in cel-shading look have also sparked controversial discussions. Ultimately, this point is simply a matter of taste. If you like it colorful, Borderlands is just right for you! Gearbox is set to stay true to its style with Borderlands 3. It should be noted, however, that the older Borderlands installments cannot keep up graphically with current titles (which is logical when you consider that Borderlands 1 was released over ten years ago).
Additionally, you should not expect a perfectly implemented shooter mechanic like in Destiny. The feel of the weapons is solid, and moreover, the weapons offer plenty of variety through countless additional effects.
How can I bridge the time until the release? For those who absolutely want to dive into the world of Borderlands before the release of Borderlands 3 on September 13, 2019, they can do so with the remastered versions of all previously released titles starting April 3, 2019. So appears
- Borderlands 1 as a Game of the Year Edition for PC, Playstation 4, and Xbox One as well as
- Borderlands 2 and Borderlands: The Pre-Sequel in a newly released Handsome Collection for PC, Playstation 4, and Xbox One. Those who already own the original Handsome Collection can upgrade to an improved version with 4K support for free via an update.
How long will the titles keep me busy? All three parts together offer over 200 hours of fun if you want to explore everything. If you want to defeat all raid bosses and collect the perfect gear, you can spend thousands of hours in Borderlands.
Which part do you recommend to readers who have never had a Borderlands in their hands? Let us know in the comments.
