Borderlands 4, the highly anticipated sequel from Gearbox Software, released on September 11, 2025. Marking a fresh chapter for the beloved franchise, the game attempts to reset series expectations after the mixed reception to its predecessor, Borderlands 3. Early reviews from critics are predominantly favorable, with Metacritic showing an average score of 84 and OpenCritic posting an 85.
Much of the praise centers around the game's dynamic combat system, which has been described as one of the highlights of the new installment. Gearbox's CEO Randy Pitchford expressed excitement about the launch, acknowledging both the anxiety and the thrill surrounding the game's release. His statement emphasizes the strong development focus and positive early telemetry data indicating a successful reception.
New Playable Characters and Features
The introduction of four new playable Vault Hunters — Vex, Rafa, Harlowe, and Amon — adds fresh depth to the Borderlands experience. These characters have been warmly received by players, who appreciate the new classes' diversity and potential for strategic gameplay. In addition to the new characters, the game sees the return of the fan-favorite Pearlescent weapon rarity, contributing to its allure.
However, not all feedback has been uniformly positive. The game's tone and pacing have raised concerns among some players and critics. Specifically, there's a perception that the game may have swung too far in response to criticisms aimed at Borderlands 3's over-the-top humor. Additionally, some technical issues have emerged, with reports of frame drops and stutters occurring during large-scale battles on PC.
Technical Performance Challenges
While performance varies depending on hardware, some players have managed to mitigate these issues using advanced features like DLSS and frame generation technology. These technical solutions serve as interim fixes while Gearbox works on updates and patches. Continuous improvements will play a critical role in determining the game's long-term reception and success on all platforms.
As the gaming community delves deeper into Borderlands 4, its reception may evolve further, influenced by gameplay experiences and developer updates. Gamers can look forward to potential expansions of the game's universe, as additional classes and content updates are anticipated. Gearbox's dedication to supporting and evolving the franchise indicates a commitment to maintaining and expanding its player base.
