Borderlands Games Timeline: Play Order

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How Many Borderlands Games Are There?

There are seven canon Borderlands games and spin-offs, and two non-canon titles. This count encompasses the main series, spin-offs, and expansions, offering diverse experiences within the shared universe.

Where’s The Best Place to Start?

While the most straightforward answer is the first game, Borderlands, any of the mainline titles (Borderlands 1, 2, or 3) offer a solid entry point into the franchise. If you prefer following the overarching story, starting from the first game is recommended for the best narrative experience.

Borderlands: Game of the Year Edition

This compilation is a popular choice for newcomers and offers an excellent entry point into the Borderlands universe. The package typically bundles all the main game content and DLC, making it an all-in-one experience. Considering the comprehensive content, this is a rewarding option for new players and experienced gamers alike.

Every Canon Borderlands Game in Chronological Order

These descriptions contain mild spoilers.

1. Borderlands (2009)

The inaugural Borderlands game introduced players to Pandora, a volatile planet teeming with riches and danger. Four Vault Hunters, Lilith, Brick, Roland, and Mordecai, embark on a quest to uncover a legendary Vault. The game boasts a compelling blend of shooting, looting, and story, establishing the franchise’s core gameplay mechanics and its unique brand of humor.

2. Borderlands: The Pre-Sequel (2014)

This game acts as a prequel to Borderlands 2, revealing the origins of Handsome Jack and providing context to events in the main series. New Vault Hunters, Athena, Wilhelm, Nisha, and Claptrap, venture into the moon of Elpis to pursue their own objectives. The Pre-Sequel serves as a bridge between the first and second installments, enriching the overarching narrative of the Borderlands universe.

3. Borderlands 2 (2012)

The sequel to the original, Borderlands 2, takes players back to Pandora with a new squad of Vault Hunters. Maya, Axton, Salvador, and Zer0 embark on a mission to thwart the ambitions of Handsome Jack. The game offers an expanded world, new classes, more weapons, and an even richer story that further develops the characters and the universe. Its engaging gameplay loop and compelling narrative cemented its status as a cornerstone of the looter shooter genre.

4. Tales From The Borderlands (2014 – 2015)

A narrative-focused spin-off, Tales from the Borderlands presents a different perspective on the Borderlands universe. This episodic adventure follows the stories of Rhys and Fiona, two individuals drawn into a grand adventure. The game prioritizes narrative choices and a branching storyline, offering a unique experience compared to the more action-oriented main series titles.

5. Tiny Tina’s Wonderlands (2022)

This game shifts from the sci-fi setting to a fantasy world of Bunkers and Badasses. With Tina as the dungeon master, players enter a world full of goblins, dragons, and fantastical creatures. The shift in setting retains the Borderlands gameplay mechanics and humor, making it an exciting addition to the franchise.

6. Borderlands 3 (2019)

Borderlands 3 introduces a fresh cast of Vault Hunters, including Amara, FL4K, Zane, and Moze, who embark on a galaxy-spanning adventure. The game focuses on stopping the murderous Siren twins, Troy and Tyreen, from harnessing vault power for unknown purposes. Players traverse various planets, encounter familiar faces, and face an array of new challenges.

7. New Tales From The Borderlands (2022)

This continuation of the Tales From The Borderlands series introduces new characters, Anu, Octavio, and Fran, who stumble upon a vault and its secrets. They find themselves caught in a conflict with the Tediore corporation and its leader, Susan Coldwell, and must uncover the true power of the relic they found. The gameplay emphasizes narrative choices and decision-making.

Every Borderlands Game in Release Order

1. Borderlands (2009)
2. Borderlands Legends (2012)
3. Borderlands 2 (2012)
4. Borderlands: The Pre-Sequel (2014)
5. Tales From The Borderlands (2014-2015)
6. Borderlands 3 (2019)
7. Tiny Tina’s Wonderlands (2022)
8. New Tales From The Borderlands (2022)
9. Borderlands: Vault Hunter Pinball (2023)
10. Borderlands 4 (2025 – slated)

What’s Next For Borderlands?

Borderlands 4, slated for release in 2025, is the next major game in the series, and the potential for further spin-offs or expansions is high. The acquisition of Gearbox Software by Take-Two Interactive suggests a continued commitment to the franchise, and the next chapter promises exciting developments in the Borderlands universe.