Borderlands 4 delivers the most advanced experience in the series, adding new movement mechanics, abilities, more formidable enemies, and an entirely new planet. Everything is designed to make players feel powerful.
The game is set on Chyros, a planet that has been hidden for millennia. The Timekeeper once controlled it using cybernetic implants, but a massive event has disrupted his rule. Now, the people are fighting back.
Vault Hunters and Characters
Players can choose from four new Vault Hunters. Vex, a Siren, channels phase energy, while Rafa, a former Tior soldier, uses an experimental exo-suit. Each character offers a distinct playstyle and unique abilities.
The game features both returning characters, like Zayn and Moxy, and newcomers like Rush. Players also receive help from Echo 4, a drone that can hack Order tech, scan environments, and assist with objectives.
Multiplayer Features
Borderlands 4 includes an upgraded lobby system, making it easier to join friends. Full crossplay is available from launch, so players on any platform can team up.
Exploring Chyros: World, Movement, and Activities
Chyros offers four massive, interconnected zones, such as the cold and rugged Terminus Range. Players will experience dynamic weather, unexpected events, and local wildlife.
Movement options now include gliding, dashing, double jumping, climbing, and point grappling, making traversal more enjoyable and useful in combat.
Missions range from sabotage operations to confronting Timekeeper generals. One such mission involves infiltrating a secret black site to stop Vile Ler’s gruesome experiments.
Players can explore silos—old Order tech sites—without needing a mission. They can hijack them for the Crimson Resistance.
With Echo 4’s help, players can hack silo networks, launch comms balloons, fast-travel to silos, and reveal nearby vault key fragments.
Vault key fragments unlock high-level dungeons filled with intense combat and valuable loot. Players can zipline or use their DigiRunner vehicle to reach them.
The DigiRunner is customizable, armed, and ready for on-the-go combat.
Dynamic world events include patrols and bosses, requiring quick reflexes and strategic movement.
Characters, Enemies, and Co-op
Players encounter familiar faces like Amara, who now cares for exotic pets and opposes the Timekeeper.
The co-op mode allows players to set independent difficulty levels. Loot drops are individual, and two-player split-screen couch co-op is available.
The world teems with enemies, including twisted creations from Licar. Players must survive places like the black site to advance.
Gear and Loot System
The game includes gear from eight manufacturers, including newcomers like the Order and Deadless. Each has a distinct style.
A new license part system lets weapons carry traits from multiple manufacturers. Higher rarity increases part combinations.
Enhancements replace artifacts, adding bonuses for specific manufacturers and helping players optimize builds.
Developers have improved drop rates and gear balance, making every item feel worthwhile and rare gear exciting.
Legendary weapons offer unique effects and drop less often to maintain their value.
A new Ordinance slot holds grenades and heavy weapons. These tools use cooldowns instead of ammo, allowing for more frequent use.
Skills, Customization, and Combat Mechanics
Each Vault Hunter has three powerful, customizable action skills. Augments and capstones offer deeper build options.
Traits provide passive bonuses. For example, Vex’s skills adapt to her weapon’s element, adding combat flexibility.
The “Fight for Your Life” mechanic returns, now supported by Ref Kits. These kits boost health and offer temporary buffs like elemental damage or movement speed.
Replayability and Conclusion
Players can replay missions and bosses at will—no save loading needed. Moxy’s Big Encore Machine enables repeat boss runs.
More content will be revealed soon, and the new systems promise the deepest Borderlands gameplay yet.
A live demo is scheduled for June, offering hands-on access.
Gearbox thanks players for supporting the Borderlands 4 reveal.