Gearbox Software recently concluded its highly anticipated Borderlands 4 State of Play event, showcasing over 20 minutes of fresh gameplay and key updates for the upcoming looter shooter.
Enhanced Movement Options
True to series tradition, Borderlands 4 introduces innovative movement mechanics that set it apart from previous installments. Players will now enjoy Destiny-inspired midair hovering capabilities, allowing for airborne combat and extended platforming reach. The addition of a versatile grappling hook and tactical dash move expands both combat and exploration possibilities. Vehicle gameplay remains central, with new features including on-demand spawning of the latest models like the Digirunner ATV.
Weapon Manufacturers & Customization
The State of Play highlighted significant weapon system upgrades, introducing three new manufacturers - Order, Ripper, and Daedalus - joining five returning favorites. The groundbreaking Licensed Parts System revolutionizes weapon customization, enabling players to combine components from different manufacturers into hybrid firearms. Higher-tier weapons now feature more modular parts, intensifying the hunt for premium loot.
Borderlands 4 Gameplay Preview Images
Narrative & Characters
The gameplay demo featured two new protagonists: Vex, a Siren with summoning abilities, and Rafa, a tech-savvy ex-Tediore operative. Their adventure unfolds across Kairos' diverse landscapes, including the frozen Terminus Range. The story blends series veterans like Moxxi and Claptrap with fresh faces such as the armored warrior Rush and AI companion Echo 4, who assists with environmental scanning and navigation.
Refined Co-op Experience
Gearbox has streamlined multiplayer functionality with improved matchmaking, cross-platform play at launch, and individual difficulty settings. The return of split-screen couch co-op joins new quality-of-life features like buddy fast-travel. Loot remains player-specific, with dynamic level scaling ensuring balanced gameplay across different progression levels.
Additional Gameplay Systems
Borderlands 4 introduces revamped progression mechanics including condensed skill trees, reduced Legendary drop rates for more meaningful victories, and the new Rep Kit system offering tactical revives. The Ordnance slot replaces grenades with optional heavy weapons, while Enhancements provide manufacturer-specific weapon bonuses.
The game's release has been moved up to September 12 for Epic Games Store, PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S, with a Nintendo Switch 2 version planned for later in 2025. Gearbox confirms this adjustment isn't related to other major game launches, with more gameplay details expected during June's hands-on preview event.
