(AfroGamers.com) Gearbox’s Borderlands is a franchise I missed out on when the games first dropped. I was probably busy playing Elder Scrolls IV or Fallout 3 at the time. It’s odd because this is definitely a franchise I would’ve enjoyed if I played it back then.
The first time I played the franchise was Borderlands 3 a few years ago. Like Destiny 2, my brother tried to explain the storyline and lore leading up to be BL3. While I’m interested in different franchises’ lore, sometimes there’s so much to get into in one sitting or during gameplay—a lot to explain as well.
I mean, I’m not even a big fan of lore dumping in games with lengthy dialogue. I use the “Skip Scene” button frequently because a character has over extended their dialogue.
In-Game Dialogue is a Strong Point in Borderlands
Then you get to Borderlands. While there is story to explain, characters tend to take the time necessary based on the immediate severity of the situation. Dialogue could be rushed and urgent or more relaxed when there will be something of breather in the story.
Sure, there will be plenty of combat but the pacing of BL is such that you’re not rushed along from one story act to the next. The side missions and multi-part acts encourages players to explore. It helps that the dialogue isn’t trying to hold you so that voice actors can get their sh** off.
Of course, it’s simply how characters are written but some characters in say Destiny 2 speak as if the situation isn’t as serious as they tried to impress upon you. Honestly, wrap it up, we’ve got to protect the Traveler.
Improvements Over Time
So there’s a contrast between the space western and the sci-fi epic. Both do have great gameplay as far as combat is concerned. The gunplay in Borderlands improved with each game starting from a pretty good spot in the first one where the guns were decent depending on what you preferred and how you played.
What also hindered this but I kind of enjoyed was that certain guns were better suited for certain classes in the first game. In the second game that was improved along with explosives being more useful and effective.
The Pre-Sequel introduced new motion mechanics with moon gravity and needing to get oxygen. It added this sliver of survival that wouldn’t dominate the game’s main approach and make it something different.
On that note, a survival game in the BL universe either single player, multiplayer or MMORPG? That could be interesting. After playing games like Destiny 2, Diablo IV, and Ghost Recon, I’d say Borderlands is a game that could do the live service, game lobby approach. The game lends itself to that scale of online play.
Then we get a game like Tiny Tina’s Wonderlands, a fun, fantasy spin-off. I always like when a studio realizes it has a formula and just applies it to a different setting or genre. Sometimes it’s that simple.
By BL3, everything had been improved, weapons felt unique by manufacturer and firing mode—Dahl and Jakobs guns can be monsters in this game. Also, movement got the biggest improvement in the series thanks to the simple inclusion of mantling or climbing.
It might seem minor but remember that Borderlands was released when mantling and automatic climbing had become standard in first person games. So, this was pretty damn big for the series.
With Borderlands 4 coming out in 2025, what are some features or directions you’re anticipating? What are some of the features or characters you enjoy from the series—I’m a Zer0 fan.
Share your thoughts below!
Staff Writer; M. Swift
This talented writer is also a podcast host, and comic book fan who loves all things old school. One may also find him on Twitter at; metalswift.