Borderlands 4, one of the most anticipated releases of 2025, promises a fresh looter-shooter experience packed with new features, refined humor, and gameplay glimpses showcased in its recent trailer. Developed by 2K Games and Gearbox Software, the title aims to push the franchise forward by leveraging next-gen hardware like never before.
This new installment introduces a fresh setting and a group of protagonists tasked with overthrowing TimeKeeper, a tyrant commanding an army of mechanical beasts. The game retains the franchise’s signature chaotic action and eccentric character designs, with the grappling hook taking center stage as a gameplay highlight. However, a burning question persists among fans: how “open” will Borderlands 4 be?
A Different Take on Open Worlds
Gearbox CEO Randy Pitchford recently addressed this topic, noting that while Borderlands 3 leaned away from a fully open world, Borderlands 4 will be the franchise’s most ambitious game yet. However, Pitchford emphasizes they wouldn’t classify it as “open world” due to the specific connotations the term carries. Instead, every aspect of the game is deliberately crafted with purpose, steering clear of systemic design. In a post on X, Pitchford clarified, “The term ‘open world’ brings implications that don’t apply to Borderlands 4.”
Adding intrigue, Pitchford teased that the game holds surprises yet to be revealed. He confirmed the game’s largest, least fragmented world to date while maintaining the franchise’s core design philosophy.
Set for a 2025 release, Borderlands 4 will launch on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC. Take-Two has assured fans it won’t clash with GTA 6’s debut. With development well advanced, the game is already playable, and Gearbox recently granted early access to a terminally ill fan, showcasing their dedication to their community.