In what order should you play the borderlands games

The Borderlands Games have swiftly established themselves as a defining force in the looter shooter genre since their inception. Recognizable by their distinct cel-shaded art style and the infamous masked psycho as their mascot, the series immerses players in a foul-mouthed, whimsical sci-fi universe that resonates deeply with gaming culture today. With its rich world-building and engaging storytelling, the Borderlands franchise has transcended gaming, becoming a multi-faceted media sensation branching into comics, novels, and even a tabletop game.

With the recent release of the Borderlands movie directed by Eli Roth, fans both new and returning are flocking to the gaming franchise to explore its origins and lore. While the film has faced mixed reviews, its release serves as a significant milestone for the Borderlands series, piquing interest in the games once more. For those unfamiliar or looking to brush up on their knowledge, this guide provides a comprehensive overview of the chronological order of the Borderlands Games, ensuring a smoother experience as players dive back into this looter-filled universe.

The Canonical Order of the Borderlands Games

In total, there are seven primary Borderlands Games and spin-offs that hold canon status within the series. Additionally, there are two smaller, non-canon titles: Borderlands: Vault Hunter Pinball and Borderlands Legends.

To get the most out of your journey through Pandora and beyond, it’s essential to understand not just the gameplay mechanics but also how the storyline unfolds across the series. Here’s a look at each game in chronological order along with an overview of their key story elements, characters, and gameplay:

1. Borderlands (2009)

Overview

Kicking off the Borderlands Games, the original Borderlands debuted in 2009, introducing players to the iconic land of Pandora. The story revolves around four distinct characters: Lilith, Brick, Roland, and Mordecai, collectively known as Vault Hunters. Their mission is to uncover the mysteries of a legendary vault rumored to hold unimaginable treasures.

With a backdrop of chaos, players quickly find themselves embroiled in a struggle against the militant Crimson Lance, predatory wildlife, and an assortment of anarchic bandits. From its launch, Borderlands distinguished itself with a unique gameplay loop that combined frenetic gunplay, character progression, and loot acquisition, effectively igniting interest in the looter shooter genre.

Game Features

The game enriched itself post-launch by introducing four expansions, including intriguing new locales. Players journeyed through zombie-infested islands and even ventured into humorous nods to Mad Max’s Thunderdome. The expansions offered fresh content and adventures that further solidified Borderlands‘ reputation.

2. Borderlands: The Pre-Sequel (2014)

Overview

Borderlands: The Pre-Sequel, released in 2014 and developed by 2K Australia with assistance from Gearbox Software, serves to bridge the gap between the first two mainline entries. Players take on the role of new characters: Athena, Wilhelm, Nisha, and Claptrap, who launch an adventure on Elpis, Pandora’s moon, in search of another vault.

Many of the elements fans cherished from the previous titles return. This game offers new mechanics and a deeper dive into the lore surrounding the series’ infamous antagonist, Handsome Jack, showcasing his transformation from a promising character into one of gaming’s most notorious villains.

Game Features

Players can expect numerous encounters with familiar foes and the introduction of new vault hunters, providing an expanded gameplay experience. Several DLC packs followed, enhancing the game with additional maps, playable characters, and missions that continued to develop the narrative, including “The Holodome Onslaught” and “Claptastic Voyage.”

3. Borderlands 2 (2012)

Overview

The definitive sequel, Borderlands 2 dropped in 2012, transporting players back to the chaotic world of Pandora. This time, a new team of Vault Hunters, comprising Maya, Axton, Salvador, and Zer0, must contend with the nefarious Handsome Jack. The narrative kicks off with the group uncovering the tragic answer of why Jack is willing to kill anyone in his way to keep the new vault’s secrets.

The larger landscape, a richer story, and diverse quests make Borderlands 2 a compelling addition to the franchise. The art design remains true to its predecessor while expanding upon customization and interactive storytelling.

Game Features

The game not only delivers more weapons and skills but also several expansions that introduced new narratives and playable characters, including one of the fan favorites, Tiny Tina. The humorous undertones embedded in the plot and character interactions made this installment remain one of the most beloved in the franchise.

4. Tales From The Borderlands (2014 – 2015)

Overview

Taking a different approach, Tales From The Borderlands emerged as an episodic adventure game developed by Telltale Games, running from 2014 to 2015. Instead of gun-slinging Vault Hunters, this title features Rhys, a Hyperion employee, and Fiona, a con artist, whose fates intertwine due to a forged vault key.

Set after the events of Borderlands 2, the game offers a rich narrative filled with character-driven stories. It shines through its focus on branching choices and moral dilemmas, providing an engaging storytelling experience unique to the Borderlands Games.

Game Features

Through Telltale’s innovative format, players experienced a dynamic narrative that changes with each decision. Numerous references and returning characters from the other installments further embed Tales From The Borderlands within the overarching story.

5. Tiny Tina’s Wonderlands (2022)

Overview

In a major departure from the standard destructive gameplay mechanics, Tiny Tina’s Wonderlands was released in 2022 as a fantasy-themed entry in the Borderlands Games lineup. It serves as a full-scale adaptation of the beloved Borderlands 2 DLC, “Tiny Tina’s Assault on Dragon Keep,” placing players in a whimsical kingdom filled with fantastical elements, including dragons and goblins.

Led by Tiny Tina, players engage in a quest involving whimsical gameplay that reflects the nature of tabletop role-playing games, known as Bunkers and Badasses.

Game Features

Tiny Tina’s Wonderlands retains the classic gunplay and loot mechanics while introducing spells and other RPG elements, enhancing versatility and engagement. Players travel through a magical overworld, with ample side quests and character choices, similar to traditional RPGs while maintaining the series’ signature humor.

6. Borderlands 3 (2019)

Overview

After a lengthy wait, Borderlands 3 burst onto the scene in 2019, introducing a fresh quartet of Vault Hunters: Amara, FL4K, Zane, and Moze. Tasked with thwarting a pair of notorious siren twins, Troy and Tyreen, the new installment allows players to traverse multiple planets beyond Pandora in their pursuit.

Bringing back fan-favorites like Lilith and Claptrap intertwines the old and new, setting the stage for epic showdown battles while preserving the franchise’s signature chaotic loot-driven gameplay.

Game Features

Borderlands 3 redefines gunplay, introducing a wealth of weapons and gear, with new missions and high-stakes environments that push the envelope of the franchise. Several post-release expansions have extended the narrative further, including “Director’s Cut,” and multiple events that keep the players engaged.

7. New Tales From The Borderlands (2022)

Overview

Building upon the legacy of the previous Telltale project, New Tales From The Borderlands, released in 2022, focuses on a new trio of protagonists: Anu, Octavio, and Fran. The fresh storyline kicks off with the trio trespassing into a vault and obtaining a priceless artifact, only to find themselves pursued by the Tediore corporation and its ruthless CEO, Susan Coldwell.

Emphasizing character development and impactful decision-making, the game continues the telltale-rich storytelling format while introducing new characters and challenges.

Game Features

Incorporating numerous choices that affect the story’s trajectory, New Tales From The Borderlands retains the spirit of moral dilemmas alongside actions and consequences that echo throughout the game. Players can relish the abundance of dialogue commentary and humor as they navigate through difficult situations.

The Complete Chronological List of the Borderlands Games

Here’s the complete chronological order of the Borderlands Games for linear gameplay:

Borderlands (2009)
Borderlands Legends (2012)
Borderlands 2 (2012)
Borderlands: The Pre-Sequel (2014)
Tales From The Borderlands (2014 – 2015)
Borderlands 3 (2019)
Tiny Tina’s Wonderlands (2022)
New Tales From The Borderlands (2022)
Borderlands: Vault Hunter Pinball (2023)

What Lies Ahead for the Borderlands Franchise?

Looking forward, Borderlands 4 appears to be the next significant entry on the horizon, as multifaceted development is underway post-acquisition by Take-Two Interactive. Gearbox Software’s head, Randy Pitchford, has hinted at the promise of the upcoming title, stating, “It’s the greatest thing [the studio has] ever done.”

Although details remain scarce, speculations suggest more frequent projects may spring forth from the franchise, particularly as Take-Two recognizes the substantial growth potential that exists within the Borderlands intellectual property.

This means that players can likely expect more looter-shooter adventures, character arcs, and diverse gameplay styles, diving deeper into the captivating universe that Borderlands has established. As fans continue to connect with the games and their myriad characters, it is an exciting time to be part of the Borderlands community.

In summary, whether you’re a newcomer eager to explore the Borderlands Games, or a seasoned player wanting to revisit the chaotic adventures, understanding the chronological order enables a richer, more cohesive experience. With the variety of characters and engaging storylines, you’ll undoubtedly discover why the Borderlands franchise is so cherished in the gaming world. So gather your gear, queue up your favorite characters, and prepare for exhilarating escapades as you delve into the Borderlands Games!