Are you ready to return to the chaotic world of Vault Hunters? Borderlands 4 officially launches on September 12, 2025 for PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC platforms, with the Nintendo Switch 2 version following on October 3, 2025. This highly anticipated looter-shooter represents the biggest evolution in the franchise’s history, featuring a brand new planet, four fresh Vault Hunters, and revolutionary gameplay mechanics that promise to redefine the Borderlands experience. The September release puts Borderlands 4 in prime position before the holiday gaming rush, giving fans nearly three weeks of exclusive mayhem before other major releases compete for attention.
- Borderlands 4 releases September 12, 2025 on PS5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC (Steam/Epic Games Store)
- Nintendo Switch 2 version launches October 3, 2025 – three weeks after the main release
- Standard edition costs $70, with premium editions up to $129.99 including post-launch content
- Four new playable Vault Hunters explore the prison planet Kairos under Unreal Engine 5
- System requirements demand RTX 2070/RX 5700 XT minimum with 16GB RAM for optimal performance
Borderlands 4 Release Date
When does Borderlands 4 come out? Borderlands 4 launches on September 12, 2025, for PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC platforms through Steam and Epic Games Store. The Nintendo Switch 2 version releases separately on October 3, 2025. Platform Release Date Key Details PlayStation 5September 12, 2025Full feature set, 2-player split-screen support Xbox Series X|S September 12, 2025Smart Delivery enabled, local co-op included PC (Steam/Epic)September 12, 2025Cross-platform play, highest visual fidelity Nintendo Switch 2October 3, 2025Optimized for portable play, no split-screen. The staggered release strategy serves multiple purposes. From our analysis of similar launches, this approach allows Gearbox to generate two separate media cycles – maximizing coverage while ensuring the Switch 2 version receives dedicated attention rather than being overshadowed by the main launch.
Why the Release Date Changed
Originally scheduled for September 23, 2025, Borderlands 4 was moved forward by 11 days following an announcement by Gearbox CEO Randy Pitchford on April 29, 2025. The official reason cited “exceptionally smooth development progress,” but industry analysis suggests strategic positioning ahead of other major fall releases, particularly Grand Theft Auto 6’s autumn window.
This calculated move demonstrates Take-Two Interactive’s careful portfolio management – ensuring their franchises don’t cannibalize each other’s sales potential while maximizing individual launch impact.
Meet the New Vault Hunters
What new characters can you play in Borderlands 4? Players can choose from four brand-new Vault Hunters: Vex (The Dark Siren), Rafa (The Exo-Soldier), Amon (The Forgeknight), and Harlowe (The Gravitar), each featuring unique abilities and three distinct Action Skills.
Character Roster Deep Dive
- Vex – The Dark Siren
- Specialty: Cynical Siren with recently awakened powers
- Signature Ability: Summons spectral cat companion “Trouble”
- Playstyle: Mystical damage dealer with pet-based tactics
- Rafa – The Exo-Soldier
- Specialty: Melee-focused combat specialist
- Signature Ability: Enhanced close-quarters combat systems
- Playstyle: Aggressive front-line fighter with technological augmentation
- Amon – The Forgeknight
- Specialty: Elemental manipulation and dual Action Skills
- Signature Ability: “Forge Skills” granting two simultaneous abilities
- Playstyle: Versatile elemental combatant with complex skill interactions
- Harlowe – The Gravitar
- Specialty: Battlefield manipulation and scientific warfare
- Signature Ability: Creates damage-sharing domes and gravity effects
- Playstyle: Tactical support with area control capabilities
Each character features three Action Skills with extensive modification through branching skill trees, Augments, and Capstones that fundamentally alter ability behavior. This represents the deepest character customization system in franchise history.
Revolutionary Gameplay Changes
Enhanced Movement & Exploration
Kairos introduces seamless open-world design with “virtually no loading times” between the four major regions. Your enhanced movement arsenal includes:
- Gliding for covering long distances
- Spot dodges for precise evasion
- Air dashes for mid-combat repositioning
- Fixed-point grappling for vertical exploration
The traditional minimap has been replaced with a compass, encouraging direct environmental engagement and organic discovery of secrets and loot.
The “Licensed Parts” Weapon System
How do weapons work in Borderlands 4? The new Licensed Parts system allows weapons to combine components from multiple manufacturers, creating unprecedented variety. For example, you might find a Jakobs rifle core with a Ripper rapid-fire mechanism, exponentially increasing loot diversity beyond traditional manufacturer boundaries.
This system introduces three new manufacturers:
- Order: The Timekeeper’s synthetic weapons
- Ripper: High-rate-of-fire specialists
- Daedalus: Advanced technology weapons
New Combat Systems
Ordnance Slot: Heavy weapons operating on cooldowns rather than ammunition, transforming rockets and explosives into repeatable tactical abilities.
- Repkits: Mid-combat consumables providing healing or temporary buffs without interrupting combat flow.
- Enhancements: Replaces Artifacts with manufacturer-synergized gear that rewards cohesive loadout building.
- Advanced Defenses: New Armor Shields and Overshields add tactical depth to survivability management.
Borderlands 4 PC System Requirements
| Component | Minimum Requirement | Recommended Requirement |
| OS | Windows 10/11 | Windows 10/11 |
| Processor | Intel Core i7-9700 / AMD Ryzen 7 2700X | Intel Core i7-12700 / AMD Ryzen 7 5800X |
| Memory | 16 GB RAM | 32 GB RAM |
| Graphics | NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2070 / AMD Radeon RX 5700 XT | NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3080 / AMD Radeon RX 6800 XT |
| Storage | 100 GB available space | 100 GB available space |
Borderlands 4 Pre-Launch PC Optimization Tips
From our testing experience with similar Unreal Engine 5 titles, we recommend:
- Storage Preparation: Install on an NVMe SSD for optimal loading performance, especially given the seamless world design.
- Memory Management: The 32GB RAM recommendation isn’t arbitrary – UE5’s Nanite and Lumen systems benefit significantly from additional memory for texture streaming.
- Driver Updates: Ensure your GPU drivers are current, as day-one optimizations typically provide 10-15% performance improvements for major releases.
- Performance Troubleshooting: If you experience issues, consider clearing your console cache or similar optimization steps.
Borderlands 4 Cross-Platform Features & Multiplayer
Does Borderlands 4 support crossplay? Yes, Borderlands 4 features full cross-platform multiplayer at launch across PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, PC, and Nintendo Switch 2, requiring a SHiFT account for connectivity.
Multiplayer Breakdown
- Online Co-op: 4 players across all platforms
- Local Split-screen: 2 players on PS5 and Xbox Series X|S only
- Cross-platform: Full compatibility with SHiFT account integration
- Nintendo Switch 2: Online multiplayer supported, but no local split-screen
In our experience covering multiplayer launches, the SHiFT requirement typically ensures smoother cross-platform friend management and progress synchronization compared to platform-native systems alone. This mirrors successful implementations we’ve seen in games like Helldivers 2’s crossplay functionality.
The World of Kairos: New Setting Deep Dive
Where does Borderlands 4 take place? Borderlands 4 is set on Kairos, a hidden prison planet ruled by the tyrannical Timekeeper. This beautiful but oppressed world features four distinct regions connected in a seamless open-world environment.
Kairos Region Guide
- The Fadefields
- Temperate rolling hills with dynamic weather
- Primary starting area with tutorial integration
- Rich in early-game loot and exploration opportunities
- Terminus Range
- Frigid mountain peaks with vertical challenges
- Advanced movement mechanics showcase
- High-level enemy encounters and rare loot
- Carcadia Burn
- Shattered wasteland with environmental hazards
- Mid-game progression focus
- Unique manufacturer weapon spawns
- The Dominion
- Timekeeper’s fortress city (endgame area)
- Maximum security cybernetic surveillance
- Legendary loot concentration and boss encounters
This interconnected design eliminates traditional loading screens, creating an immersive experience where exploration flows naturally between dramatically different environments.
Comprehensive FAQ Section
Can I pre-order Borderlands 4 now?
Yes, all editions are available for pre-order with the Gilded Glory Pack bonus included for any pre-purchase. You can find the game on the official Steam store page.
Will there be a physical release?
While not explicitly confirmed in our research, the franchise’s history suggests physical editions for console platforms, with PC likely remaining digital-only.
Does Borderlands 4 require internet connection?
Single-player can be enjoyed offline, but multiplayer features, cross-platform play, and certain progression elements require internet connectivity.
What engine does Borderlands 4 use?
Borderlands 4 is built on Unreal Engine 5, enabling the seamless world design and advanced visual features like Nanite and Lumen lighting.
Will my save data transfer from previous games?
No official save transfer has been announced, as Borderlands 4 features entirely new characters and storylines on a different planet.
How large is the download size?
PC requires 100GB of storage space, with console versions likely similar given the shared content base. For comparison, you can check out other recent game system requirements to see how this stacks up.
How many hours of gameplay does Borderlands 4 offer?
While official playtime hasn’t been revealed, previous Borderlands entries typically provide 25-30 hours for main story completion, with hundreds of hours of additional content through side quests, post-launch DLC, and multiple character playthroughs.
Are there returning characters from previous games?
Yes, Amara and Zane from Borderlands 3 return as NPCs, along with franchise staples like Claptrap and Moxxi, though players control entirely new Vault Hunters.
Will there be post-launch content?
Extensive post-launch support is confirmed, including four DLC areas with new bosses, four Vault Cards with challenges, and two additional playable Vault Hunters in the Super Deluxe Edition.
Is the Super Deluxe Edition worth the extra cost?
For dedicated fans planning long-term engagement, the Super Deluxe Edition offers excellent value through two additional playable characters, significantly extending replay value beyond the base four Vault Hunters.
Can I upgrade from Standard to Deluxe Edition later?
Typically, upgrade paths are available post-launch, though pre-order bonuses may be exclusive to early purchases.
Expert Verdict & Launch Preparation
Borderlands 4 represents the most ambitious entry in the franchise’s 15-year history. The combination of Unreal Engine 5 technology, revolutionary Licensed Parts system, and return to beloved post-launch character additions positions this as a potential franchise-defining moment. For complete game details and updates, visit the official Borderlands 4 website.
Pre-Launch Checklist:
- Verify your PC meets recommended specs for optimal experience
- Ensure 100GB+ free storage space
- Update graphics drivers to latest versions
- Create or verify SHiFT account for cross-platform features
- Consider edition choice based on long-term engagement plans
From our analysis of the development trajectory and Take-Two’s strategic positioning, September 12 represents the optimal launch window – early enough to establish market presence before holiday competition while allowing sufficient development time for polish.
Bottom Line: Borderlands 4’s September 12, 2025 launch promises to deliver the franchise evolution fans have been waiting for, combining familiar mayhem with innovative systems that push the looter-shooter genre forward.
Carlos is our lead Action-Adventure and Shooter game analyst, with a past in competitive FPS leagues. He has a keen instinct for what makes gunplay feel responsive and level design engaging. His reviews and guides deconstruct the core mechanics of action games to help players master movement and aim.