Gearbox Software and 2K released Borderlands 4 on September 12, 2025 for PlayStation 5, Windows, and Xbox Series X/S. The action role-playing first-person looter shooter is the fifth mainline entry in the Borderlands series and a direct sequel to Borderlands 3. Critics gave the game generally favorable reviews at launch. A Nintendo Switch 2 version was announced but placed on indefinite pause with no future plans.

Setting and Plot

Borderlands 4 is set six years after the events of Borderlands 3. Following the Moonfall incident — where Pandora’s moon Elpis was teleported by Lilith and destroyed the protective barrier of the planet Kairos — a new generation of Vault Hunters arrives on the ancient planet to locate its Vault. Players must lead the Crimson Resistance against the Timekeeper, a ruthless dictator who rules Kairos with his synthetic Order forces.

The four base-game Vault Hunters are Rafa the Exo-Soldier, Harlowe the Gravitar, Amon the Forgeknight, and Vex the Siren. Returning NPCs include Mad Moxxi, Marcus Kincaid, Claptrap, Lilith, Amara, and Zane Flynt. Two post-launch story expansions add additional playable characters: “Mad Ellie and the Vault of the Damned” introduces C4$H the Rogue, while “FL4K and the Last Resort” adds Loveless the Hacker and features FL4K as a returning NPC.

Core Mechanical Updates

Built on Unreal EngineUnreal Engine. A widely-used commercial game engine from Epic Games; powers many large-studio (AAA) games. UE5 is the current generation. 5, Borderlands 4 retains the first-person looter shooter framework with action RPGRPG. Role-Playing Game — a game built around character progression, story, and player choices. elements. Gearbox described the world as “seamless,” eliminating loading screens between areas as players explore Kairos. New traversal tools include a grappling hook, alongside new vehicles for planetary navigation.

The game supports single-player and cooperative multiplayer for up to four players total. Director Graeme Timmins led development, with Sam Winkler as writer and Adam May as artist. Composers include Finishing Move Inc., Cris Velasco, Joshua Carro, Christian Pacaud, Casey Diiorio, and Des Rocs.

Launch Status

Borderlands 4 shipped simultaneously on PlayStation 5, Windows, and Xbox Series X/S on September 12, 2025. No minimum or recommended PC specifications were provided in the available source material. Critical reception at launch was generally favorable across all platforms.