By now you’re probably aware that Borderlands 4 is out. If the hype coming from its strong, loot-loving community wasn’t enough to push it into your mind, then whatever Randy Pitchford has been saying surely did. But it’s here, and like previous games, it’s all about the grind for that sweet, wonderful loot.
Which is fine, but there are some shortcomings to be aware of. Borderlands 4 tells its weakest story to date, one involving a vicious foe named the Timekeeper ruling over the planet of Kairos with the help of his lieutenants and his vast army. But luckily, where the game lacks in telling the tale, it more than makes up for in action. Borderlands 4 delivers this in spades with a lot to do within its open world. A raid here, a boss battle there, you won’t get bored. And, for that matter, you can have friends join you.
I do wish more detail was given to the Vault Hunters, but they offer some good variety. And you can level them up to the point of legend, and unlock some really awesome weaponry. I mean oddball stuff. Not to mention traversal is easier than ever, thanks to the ability to glide and a cool grapple beam straight out of Bulletstorm. I wish there was more creative stuff you could do with it, but it’s useful.
Borderlands 4 gives you a lot to do, and the means to enjoy it. I do wish the story offered more structure and far, far less quippy dialogue. But as it stands, it continues enough of the status quo for fans to chew on. And it doesn’t hurt to bring a good battle party as well. Just remember, there’s enough loot for everyone.
Borderlands 4 Goes Light On Story, Heavy On Action
Like I said, the Timekeeper here just seems like a yawn. In comparison to more vile creatures we’ve seen in the past (like the lovable Handsome Jack), they’re just forgettable. That’s not to say they don’t pose a threat, but when your subordinates are more fun than you, something’s up.
Not to mention some of the dialogue in Borderlands 4 is forgettable. Even Claptrap, who usually has a lot to say and with a good amount of charm, seems a bit…devoid here. Your Vault Hunters don’t have that much amazing stuff to say either.
But let’s get to where Borderlands 4 wonderfully cooks – with its gameplay. Those of you who came for the battles and the loot won’t find any disappointment here. It’s easily the best playing game in the series to date, packing on the arsenal of insane weaponry. I myself love a weapon that can shoot out knives, because who’s got time to throw, anyway? But, of course, the more explosive the better, especially when it comes to the diabolical boss fights. Find your respawn points often – you’ll need them.
Of course, the more the merrier with Borderlands. The fourth chapter features co-op that works very well here, including local options and Crossplay. It works very well, too, with only a little bit of connection time. And don’t worry, there’s more than enough loot for everyone, though you might be bickering on who gets the next cool weapon. Share and share alike, I say. The local touch is superb, too, because sometimes you just need a couch buddy who “gets” you.
You can level up your Vault Hunter like a boss, and each one, while somewhat lacking in personality, makes up for it with cool abilities. You’re bound to find a personal favorite, depending on their Action Skills, so make sure you experiment. And by all means, build up that arsenal of weapons. Again, you’ll need it.
The open world option is back and better than ever. Here, you’ll find plenty of side quests, raids and other things that will keep you busy for hours. Again, the lack of a compelling narrative is notable. But when you have fun just taking on new missions – some you may not even expect – it does make up for it. Mostly.
And the new abilities are a nice touch. I love the glide capability, letting you soar in the sky to reach different areas outside of jumping range. Not to mention the usage of the grapple beam, which lets you boost upward. I just wish you could use it more in battle. Grabbing items is cool and all, but why can’t I whip it around like Simon Belmont?
Overall, Borderlands 4 has enough balance to make up for its shortcomings. Those looking for an amazing new story might come away feeling down. Others, however, will just jump into the combat and make the most out of their situation. And with the right group, that counts for quite a bit.
The Looks and Sounds of Borderlands 4?
Now let’s get into the presentation. Since the game is technically built for new consoles in mind (though the Nintendo Switch 2 version is on the backburner for now), it needs to look great, yeah?
The good news is that Borderlands 4 definitely looks the part. The game runs at a (mostly) fluid frame rate, and the action gets chaotic enough to hold things together. The detail across Kairos does look pretty good, though, as expected, some areas do appear a bit barren. But that’s made up for with some cool touches that Borderlands fans are sure to love. Not to mention some of these areas as simply huge. (Or dare I say, “Yuge!”)
The Unreal Engine tech isn’t perfect, however. I did experience a game crash here and there, and some visual blemishes do pop up. But running on the PlayStation 5 version we’re reviewing, it looks great overall. Fans won’t be disappointed, unless they have the Steam version and it’s not entirely up to spec. (This thing is a monster.)
As for audio, it’s good. While the dialogue leaves a bit to be desired, it’s delivered beautifully by top-notch actors. And the music bits here and there are inspired, with just the right addition to where they need to be. Weapon sound effects are varied and will keep you involved, with some coming across as surprisingly authentic. You can tell that the Gearbox team had a field day recreating some of these. “Quick, let’s squish these!”
So, yeah, when it comes to being a truly next-gen Borderlands game, the fourth chapter isn’t bad. Could it use some touch-ups? Sure, but there’s strong framework to build upon here.
Head For the Border…lands
I do wish more was done to make the story better, along with some of the dialogue. It’s the biggest drawback to Borderlands 4, and one that may make some fans scratch their heads. But if you can accept that particular shortcoming, it’s a quality sequel. The gameplay delivers like never before, and is an absolute gas with the right battle team. Not to mention there’s a lot of ground to cover, and it looks the part with Unreal Engine.
I’d like to see improvements with patches and whatever the DLC has in store. As it stands, though, Borderlands 4 delivers where it needs to the most – with frenetic gameplay and the loot that comes with it. Reap them rewards.
GAMERHUB RATING: 4 (out of 5) JOYSTICKS
Thanks to 2K for providing us with a review code! Borderlands 4 is available now for Xbox, PlayStation and PC, and coming soon to Nintendo Switch 2.
Need more shooter goodness? Check out our review of Ex-Zodiac!
