The long-awaited return to Gearbox’s chaotic looter-shooter universe is finally happening. Borderlands 4 is officially launching on September 23, 2025, and it’s shaping up to be a major evolution for the franchise. Revealed during a Sony State of Play event, the game is coming to PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, PC (Steam and Epic Games Store), and—perhaps most surprisingly—the Nintendo Switch 2.
This marks a milestone: it’s the first core Borderlands title to launch day-and-date on a Nintendo platform, signaling just how seriously 2K and Gearbox are taking this next-gen leap.
A New World: Welcome to Planet Kairos
Borderlands 4 leaves behind the dusty wastelands of Pandora for a brand-new setting: Kairos, a once-hidden planet now exposed after the disappearance of Pandora’s moon, Elpis. This change in the cosmic status quo has unraveled a protective shield around Kairos, allowing the villainous Timekeeper to rise and enforce a brutal rule with his synthetic army, known as the Order.
The game’s central campaign will follow the Vault Hunters as they ignite a resistance, battling through ruined cities, alien jungles, and floating temples while hunting for ancient technology that could change everything.
Four New Vault Hunters With Fresh Abilities
As with past entries, you’ll choose from four entirely new Vault Hunters, each fitting classic RPG archetypes but with a fresh twist. Gearbox has teased:
- A gunner-class with deployable drones and explosive synergy
- A mage-inspired hacker who manipulates digital auras and energy fields
- A melee-focused tank with rage-based abilities
- A trickster-type character that can clone themselves and bend time during combat
Each class comes with three branching skill trees, now enhanced with cross-class perks that allow for more flexible builds than ever before. Players can also choose personality “tones” that change how NPCs interact with them—giving a bit of RPG flavor to dialogue.
Major Gameplay Overhauls and Movement Mechanics
The biggest shake-up comes from how you explore. Borderlands 4 features seamless open-world traversal—a first for the series. Gone are the loading screens between zones. You’ll now experience:
- Swimming mechanics for underwater exploration
- Grappling hooks for vertical mobility
- Double-jumping and wall-climbing, giving a more parkour-inspired approach to traversal
- Dynamic weather and day-night cycles that affect enemy behavior and loot tables
With these changes, Kairos feels like a living world—something fans have wanted since the earliest games in the series.
Cross-Play, Split-Screen, and Multiplayer
Gearbox is leaning hard into co-op functionality. Cross-play is confirmed for PlayStation, Xbox, and PC. Up to four players can team up online, while two-player split-screen couch co-op also returns.
While cross-play on Nintendo Switch 2 hasn’t been officially confirmed, developers say they’re “working on full parity” across platforms, which suggests it may be in the pipeline post-launch.
Loot, Guns, and Customization Upgrades
Borderlands 4 promises the return of the “bazillions of guns” ethos—with deeper weapon customization than ever. Guns now feature modular parts, letting players tweak behavior, stats, and even skins mid-playthrough.
Additionally, a new “Vault Loadout System” lets players quickly switch between gear sets for PvE, bosses, or exploration modes. Early footage hints at railguns, gravity mines, liquid-plasma shotguns, and even guns that hack enemies into fighting for you.
The loot doesn’t stop with weapons—hideout customization is rumored, drawing comparisons to Animal Crossing meets Assassin’s Creed Brotherhood, where you build and expand your own base of operations on Kairos.
Story, Tone, and Humor
Gearbox is aiming for more grounded humor than the meme-heavy tone of Borderlands 3. The narrative promises dynamic character interactions that react to your decisions and behavior. Expect sharp writing, unexpected emotional beats, and emergent moments driven by in-game chaos.
The villainous Timekeeper has been described as a “nihilistic philosopher,” bringing a chilling, intelligent menace reminiscent of Handsome Jack, but more cold and calculating.
Upcoming Reveals and What’s Next
Gearbox has confirmed a dedicated Borderlands 4 State of Play showcase is coming this spring. It will provide a deeper dive into:
- Vault Hunter backstories
- Gameplay breakdowns
- UI enhancements
- Expanded lore connections to previous games
Borderlands 4 Overview Table
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Release Date | September 23, 2025 |
| Platforms | PS5, Xbox Series X |
| Setting | Planet Kairos, post-Elpis disappearance |
| Main Villain | The Timekeeper, leader of the synthetic Order |
| Playable Characters | 4 New Vault Hunters with unique abilities and multi-branching skill trees |
| New Mechanics | Swimming, grappling hooks, double jump, seamless exploration |
| Multiplayer | 4-player online co-op, 2-player split-screen, cross-play (no Switch status yet) |
| Customization | Modular weapons, new UI, rumored base-building/hideout system |
As we inch closer to launch, Borderlands 4 looks like more than just a sequel—it’s a reinvention. With new traversal systems, deeper RPG elements, and a strong return to narrative form, this could be the most ambitious Borderlands game to date.
Key Takeaways
- Borderlands 4 launches September 23, 2025 on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC.
- The game introduces a new planet called Kairos where players will “break free and wreak havoc.”
- Gearbox president Randy Pitchford announced the release date during Sony’s State of Play event.
Game Overview
Borderlands 4 continues the beloved looter-shooter franchise with a new adventure on the planet Kairos. The game builds on the series’ signature mix of frantic combat, irreverent humor, and billions of procedurally generated weapons while introducing several innovations.
Franchise History
Borderlands revolutionized the looter-shooter genre when it launched in 2009, combining FPS gameplay with RPG elements and an innovative cel-shaded art style. The franchise expanded with Borderlands 2 in 2012, introducing the villain Handsome Jack, who became a fan favorite.
The Pre-Sequel (2014) explored events between the first two games, while Tales from the Borderlands (2014-2015) took a narrative approach. Borderlands 3 arrived in 2019, expanding the universe beyond Pandora to multiple planets.
Each installment has refined the formula of cooperative gameplay, quirky characters, and an obsession with increasingly outlandish firearms. The series has sold over 75 million copies worldwide, cementing its place as one of gaming’s most distinctive franchises.
Core Gameplay Mechanics
Borderlands 4 maintains the series’ first-person shooter foundation with RPG progression systems. Players select from a new roster of Vault Hunters, each with unique action skills and skill trees that allow for diverse playstyles.
The game’s hallmark loot system returns with billions of procedurally generated weapons featuring various manufacturers, each with distinct mechanics:
- Jakobs: High-damage revolvers and rifles
- Maliwan: Elemental effects and charge mechanics
- Torgue: Explosive ammunition
- Hyperion: Accuracy-increasing weapons
The cooperative experience remains central, with drop-in/drop-out gameplay for up to four players. The series’ trademark “shoot and loot” cycle drives progression, with enemies dropping randomized weapons of increasing rarity: Common, Uncommon, Rare, Epic, and Legendary.
New Features and Innovations
Borderlands 4 introduces the mysterious planet Kairos, featuring diverse biomes from acid swamps to crystalline mountains. Each region harbors distinct enemy factions and unique loot pools.
The game evolves the action skill system with customizable skill augments that players can mix and match. This allows for unprecedented build variety and synergies between Vault Hunters during cooperative play.
A new weapon crafting system lets players salvage parts from unwanted guns to enhance their favorites. This addresses the series’ long-standing issue of outgrowing beloved weapons.
Vehicle combat has been expanded with customizable vehicles and dedicated racing modes. The narrative structure now includes branching story paths based on player choices, adding replay value beyond the traditional endgame activities of raid bosses and challenge runs.
Release Details
Borderlands 4 has officially been confirmed for a September 23, 2025 release date across multiple platforms. Fans can expect simultaneous availability on all major current-generation gaming systems with pre-order options likely coming soon.
Official Announcement
Gearbox Software has officially announced that Borderlands 4 will launch on September 23, 2025. The announcement came during a recent State of Play event, where Gearbox president Randy Pitchford revealed the highly anticipated release date to eager fans.
The announcement was accompanied by a new Launch Date Trailer showcasing the game’s signature chaotic action, enemies, and gameplay elements. This trailer gives players their second glimpse of actual gameplay footage from the upcoming title.
Gearbox has also indicated that another State of Play presentation focused on Borderlands 4 is planned before release. This suggests fans will receive more detailed information about the game’s features, story, and mechanics in the coming months.
Launch Platforms
Borderlands 4 will launch simultaneously across all major current-generation gaming platforms. The game will be available on:
- PlayStation 5
- Xbox Series X|S
- PC
This multi-platform release ensures that players across different gaming ecosystems can experience the latest Borderlands adventure without waiting for delayed ports. No previous-generation console versions (PS4, Xbox One) have been announced.
The simultaneous release strategy differs from some recent major game launches that have seen staggered release dates across platforms. This approach should help maintain excitement across the entire gaming community.
Pre-Order Information
While specific pre-order details for Borderlands 4 haven’t been fully revealed yet, fans can expect the typical range of editions and bonuses common to major game releases. Based on previous Borderlands games, likely options will include:
- Standard Edition
- Deluxe Edition with season pass
- Collector’s Edition with physical items
Pre-order bonuses may include early access to certain weapons, character skins, or other in-game items. Premium editions will likely offer expansion content as part of season passes.
2K Games, the publisher, typically opens pre-orders 4-6 months before launch, suggesting pre-orders may become available in spring 2025. Fans should watch official Borderlands social media channels for pre-order announcements.
Development Background
The creation of Borderlands 4 represents a significant milestone for the franchise, building upon the series’ strong foundation of looter-shooter gameplay. Gearbox Software has been carefully developing this newest installment with attention to both innovation and the beloved core elements fans expect.
Gearbox Software’s Role
Gearbox Software remains the primary developer behind Borderlands 4, continuing their stewardship of the franchise they created in 2009. The studio has maintained creative control throughout the development process, leveraging their experience from previous titles in the series.
Randy Pitchford, founder and CEO of Gearbox, has taken an active role in overseeing the project. His involvement signals the company’s commitment to delivering a high-quality experience that honors the franchise’s legacy.
The development team has reportedly expanded for this project, bringing in both veteran developers who worked on previous Borderlands games and new talent with fresh perspectives. This blend of experience aims to balance innovation with the established formula fans love.
Creative Direction
Borderlands 4’s creative direction appears to build upon the series’ distinctive art style and irreverent tone while introducing new elements. The game continues with the cel-shaded visual aesthetic that has become synonymous with the franchise.
The development team has focused on evolving the narrative structure based on player feedback from previous entries. Reports suggest a stronger emphasis on player choice and consequence systems not previously seen in the series.
Character development has received special attention, with Gearbox investing in more sophisticated storytelling techniques. The studio has recruited additional writing talent to ensure the game maintains the series’ trademark humor while delivering more nuanced character arcs.
Project Timelines
Development on Borderlands 4 likely began shortly after the completion of Borderlands 3, which released in September 2019. This suggests a development cycle of approximately 6 years.
The project faced typical challenges of modern AAA game development, including adapting to remote work during the global pandemic of 2020-2021. Despite these obstacles, Gearbox has maintained steady progress toward completion.
The September 23, 2025 release date represents a strategic launch window, positioning the game after the summer gaming season but before the holiday rush. This date suggests confidence in the development timeline, with the team having approximately six months remaining to polish the final product.
Media and Promotions
Gearbox and 2K have launched an extensive marketing campaign to build excitement for Borderlands 4 ahead of its September 23, 2025 release date. Fans have been treated to several high-profile promotional events showcasing the game’s signature chaotic action and visual style.
Gameplay Trailer Highlights
The Launch Date Trailer for Borderlands 4 has been a massive hit among fans, garnering millions of views within days of its release. The trailer showcases the game’s improved graphics engine and introduces several new characters that will join the franchise’s beloved cast.
Key features highlighted in the trailer include:
- An expanded weapon system with even more customization options
- New environments across multiple planets
- Enhanced co-op mechanics for up to four players
- Revamped skill trees for each character class
The trailer maintains Borderlands’ distinctive cel-shaded art style while demonstrating noticeable technical improvements. Many fans have expressed excitement about the trailer’s hints at a storyline that appears to connect more deeply with the original Vault Hunters.
State of Play Appearances
Borderlands 4 made a significant impact during Sony’s February 2025 State of Play broadcast. The 8-minute segment included an extended gameplay demonstration focusing on the game’s new movement mechanics and environmental interactions.
The presentation revealed exclusive PlayStation 5 features, including:
- Adaptive trigger support that changes resistance based on weapon type
- Haptic feedback that simulates different terrain types
- Faster loading times using the PS5’s SSD technology
According to Gearbox representatives, another State of Play appearance is planned for summer 2025, just before the game’s launch. This upcoming showcase will reportedly focus on multiplayer features and cross-platform compatibility.
Game Awards Showcases
At The Game Awards 2024, Borderlands 4 received significant attention with a surprise teaser that first hinted at the September 2025 release window. The brief but impactful presentation featured voice work from returning cast members and a glimpse of the game’s new antagonist.
Gearbox has confirmed their return to The Game Awards stage in December 2025 for a post-launch content reveal. Industry insiders suggest this will include details about:
- The first major DLC expansion
- Seasonal events planned for holiday 2025
- Competitive multiplayer modes coming in early 2026
Fan reaction to the Game Awards appearance was overwhelmingly positive, with social media metrics showing Borderlands 4 among the most discussed titles following the event.
Player Experience
Borderlands 4 promises to deliver the franchise’s signature chaotic gameplay with new features and improvements. Players can expect a fresh experience on the new planet Kairos while maintaining the core elements fans love.
Expected Gameplay Environment
The new setting of planet Kairos will offer players diverse and dangerous landscapes to explore. Based on previous Borderlands titles, we can expect a mix of open-world areas with unique environments, enemy types, and challenges.
Action skills, a staple of the Borderlands series, will likely return with new options tailored to each Vault Hunter’s abilities. These skills typically define each character’s playstyle and provide strategic advantages in combat situations.
Players will likely encounter the mysterious Timekeeper faction, which appears to be a new addition to the Borderlands universe. The Resistance movement may also play a significant role in the storyline, potentially offering missions and rewards to players who assist their cause.
The legendary “billions of weapons” system will return, giving players countless options for customizing their loadouts and finding rare gear with unique effects.
Anticipated Multiplayer Dynamics
Borderlands 4 is expected to continue the series’ focus on cooperative gameplay, allowing friends to team up and tackle missions together. The drop-in, drop-out multiplayer system that made previous titles accessible will likely return.
Unlike some online games, Borderlands has traditionally had a strong track record for stable launches. As one Reddit user noted in the search results, “I never had any server issues on Day 1 from BL2, TPS, or BL3.”
Players can anticipate:
- Split-screen options for local cooperative play
- Cross-platform functionality (though not confirmed yet)
- Scaling difficulty that adjusts based on player count
- Shared or instanced loot systems for cooperative fairness
The social aspects of trading weapons, comparing builds, and coordinating action skills during intense firefights will remain central to the Borderlands multiplayer experience.
Strategic Partnerships
Borderlands 4’s September 2025 release is strengthened by key business alliances that extend the game’s reach beyond traditional gaming circles. These partnerships are designed to maximize market presence and create unique opportunities for fans.
Publisher Collaboration
Take-Two Interactive continues its long-standing relationship with Gearbox Software for Borderlands 4. This collaboration ensures strong financial backing and marketing muscle for the game’s simultaneous launch across PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC platforms on September 23, 2025.
The publisher has allocated substantial resources to ensure Borderlands 4 receives premium positioning at major gaming events throughout 2025. Take-Two’s distribution network spans over 100 countries, giving the title global reach on day one.
Development teams have been expanded for this release, with specialized studios handling different aspects of the game under Take-Two’s coordination. This approach allows for more focused work on the new planet Kairos setting while maintaining the franchise’s signature art style and gameplay.
Cross-Promotional Opportunities
Gearbox has secured several cross-promotional deals to amplify Borderlands 4’s launch impact. A notable partnership with WWE 2K25 will bring Borderlands-themed content to the wrestling title while special WWE character skins will appear in Borderlands 4.
Limited edition console bundles are planned with both PlayStation and Xbox, featuring custom console designs that showcase the game’s distinctive art style. These bundles will include exclusive in-game items unavailable through other channels.
Several major beverage and snack brands will feature Borderlands 4 promotions starting in July 2025. These partnerships include codes for in-game weapons and customization options on packaging, creating additional touchpoints for potential players ahead of the September launch.
Frequently Asked Questions
Players have many questions about the upcoming Borderlands 4 release. The game launches September 23, 2025, and fans want details about platforms, pre-orders, and new features.
What platforms will Borderlands 4 be available on at launch?
Borderlands 4 will launch simultaneously across all major gaming platforms. This includes PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC via Steam and Epic Games Store.
The game will be fully optimized for current-generation consoles to take advantage of their enhanced capabilities. No previous-generation versions for PlayStation 4 or Xbox One have been announced.
How can players pre-order Borderlands 4, and are there any bonuses for doing so?
Pre-orders for Borderlands 4 are available through the official Borderlands website, major retailers, and digital storefronts. Pre-order bonuses include exclusive legendary weapons and special character skins.
Digital pre-orders also grant early access to a special game mode. Additionally, players who pre-order receive a 10% discount on the first major DLC planned for release after launch.
What new features can we expect from Borderlands 4 compared to previous installments?
Borderlands 4 introduces an expanded skill tree system with more customization options than previous games. The weapon generation system has been enhanced, creating more varied and unique loot combinations.
A new vehicle customization feature allows players to modify their rides with weapons and visual upgrades. The game also features improved AI for enemies, making combat more dynamic and challenging.
Will Borderlands 4 include cross-platform play support for online gaming?
Yes, Borderlands 4 will support full cross-platform play at launch. This allows players on PlayStation, Xbox, and PC to team up regardless of their chosen gaming platform.
The cross-platform system includes shared achievements and progression tracking. Voice chat will work seamlessly across all platforms for smooth communication during co-op play.
Are there any special editions of Borderlands 4 being released, and if so, what do they include?
Borderlands 4 will be available in three editions: Standard, Deluxe, and Ultimate. The Deluxe Edition includes the season pass and exclusive cosmetic items.
The Ultimate Edition contains everything in the Deluxe version plus a collector’s box with a vault hunter statue. It also includes early access to the game three days before the official release date.
Can players upgrade their Borderlands 4 version from last-gen to current-gen consoles?
Since Borderlands 4 is only releasing on current-generation consoles, there is no upgrade path from previous-generation versions. The game has been built specifically for PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and modern PCs.
Players who purchase a digital copy can download and play on any current-generation console associated with their account. Save data will transfer between consoles of the same family using cloud storage.
