Gearbox Software and 2K Games have officially confirmed that Borderlands 4 will launch on September 23, 2025, for PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, and PC. The announcement came during the latest PlayStation State of Play, where a brand-new trailer provided fans with the first detailed look at the upcoming looter shooter.
The game, which continues the Borderlands series’ mix of fast-paced combat and RPG elements, introduces new gameplay mechanics, an expanded arsenal of weapons, and a fresh cast of Vault Hunters. The latest trailer hints at major improvements to mobility, enhanced character abilities, and a darker narrative tone.
Enhanced Mobility and Combat
A significant addition to Borderlands 4 is the double jump mechanic, enabling players to execute aerial maneuvers for improved combat positioning. The previous Borderlands title to offer similar mobility was The Pre-Sequel, which featured low-gravity environments and air boosts.
In addition to the double jump, new action skills and unique weapon mechanics were shown in the trailer. Each Vault Hunter appears to have multiple abilities instead of a single skill tree. A few highlights from the footage include:
- A Siren character with abilities linked to necromancy is shown summoning an energy-based clone wielding a scythe.
- A high-tech Vault Hunter deploying a mechanized turret or energy cannon during combat.
- A cybernetically enhanced warrior, nicknamed “Techno Viking” by fans, summoning dual elemental axes to throw at enemies.
- A new character using a secondary arm-mounted weapon to launch projectiles, suggesting a possible mix of melee and ranged combat styles.
The increased variety in action skills hints at deeper character customization and more strategic combat options compared to previous games in the series.
Story and Setting: A New Planet and an Oppressive Regime
Borderlands 4 takes place on Kairos, a new planet in the series. The trailer suggests that Kairos was once shielded from outside forces, but the destruction of Pandora’s moon, Elpis, has left it exposed to external threats.
The story revolves around an authoritarian figure known as The Timekeeper, who controls Kairos with an army of synthetic enforcers called The Order. Players will take on the role of a Vault Hunter leading a resistance, battling against The Timekeeper’s forces while searching for hidden alien artifacts.
The game’s tagline, “Break Free,” appears at the end of the trailer, possibly hinting at a storyline focused on rebellion, mind control, or an illusionary reality.
Darker Tone and Visual Style
The new trailer showcases a grittier and more violent visual style than previous entries. Combat appears more brutal, with increased blood and dismemberment effects. However, players who prefer a less graphic experience may have the option to disable excessive gore in the game settings.
Despite the darker tone, Borderlands 4 retains the signature cel-shaded graphics and humor that define the series. The environments in the trailer appear more detailed and diverse, featuring neon-lit cityscapes, vast deserts, and ruined industrial zones.
What’s Next? Upcoming Deep Dive Event
Gearbox has confirmed that a Borderlands 4 deep dive event is planned for later this year, where more details about gameplay, weapons, and character abilities will be revealed.
With its expanded movement mechanics, deeper character customization, and a compelling new setting, Borderlands 4 looks to build upon the success of its predecessors while introducing fresh gameplay elements. As the release date approaches, fans can expect more reveals leading up to the September 23 launch.
