Some years ago I teamed up with three online friends and kicked off a four-way game of Borderlands 2 that, thanks to that annoying thing called real life, we would never see through to the end. Now, a long way further down the line, the vault hunting mayhem is back, and this time it hits harder. Borderlands 4 brings the familiar blast-and-loot formula into a newly ambitious open world that feels both fresh and loaded for co-op carnage. The gunplay is sharper than ever, movement is more dynamic, and the loot chase is as gratifying as you remember. If you’re looking for that wild, rampaging shooter fun, this is it, and I’m gutted I won’t have the time and opportunities to give it a play through with those same friends from all that time ago.
Right from the start you land on the planet Kairos, take your pick of new Vault Hunters, and dive headlong into the campaign. The story’s still bonkers and full of Borderlands weirdness, but it also adds a slightly more serious tone which gives the characters and world a little more weight. It doesn’t throw out the series identity, instead it leans into it while nudging things forward. The world is packed with side missions, random events, and a ton of loot-driven action that rewards risk and discovery. And, of course, Claptrap.
As you’d hope, the gameplay is where the game really shines. Everything about the shooting feels tighter: weapons feel beefy, explosions pack punch, and skill trees are deeper. Movement is more fluid; you’re not just running and gunning, you’re gliding, dodging, grappling and taking terrain into account. That adds a layer of freedom and flair. Wading through a field of enemies, dropping into battle from above, then ripping out with a launch pad and grapple hook feels spectacular. The audio plays its part too, with a cracking soundtrack backing up a fantastic range of bangs, crunches and splats, and a decent set of headphones or speakers will really dial up the fun.
The open world plays well too. Areas are varied, the map feels big without being empty, and there’s always something happening. Need a break from the main campaign? Hop on your hover bike, find a world event, take on a boss or just explore for loot. It’s built to be played solo but it will absolutely boss in co-op: finding gear with friends, hauling builds, coordinating takedowns… whether you’re on your own or teaming up with others, when it clicks, it’s glorious.
But it isn’t perfect. Technical issues are a real blot on an otherwise strong game. On a well specced PC running sensible settings the game mostly runs well, despite what you might have heard, but you’ll still hit hitches, frame drops or long load times in busier zones. Some side missions feel recycled, and the story, while better than past entries, still doesn’t hit the highs of the best in the series. Inventory menus feel cluttered, and customization systems have steep learning curves. Nothing that really dents your enjoyment, but certainly a few things that take the shine off.
The endgame is seriously good though: Vault hunts, map-wide challenges, layers of loot, and builds that reward dedication. If you stick around, there’s a lot to sink your teeth into. It’s a game made for jumps, explosions, and screaming “there’s legendary loot” at your mates (or, equally valid, at your nearest pet).
In short, Borderlands 4 takes everything good about the series, dials it up, and throws in plenty of new tricks. If you’re prepared to overlook a few awkward edges, you’re in for one of the most satisfying looter-shooters of recent years.
Reviewed on PC
