Gearbox Software and 2K Games showcased the first trailer of Borderlands 4 at the Game Awards 2024. Randy Pitchford, President of Gearbox Entertainment, got on stage and presented the trailer, which contained cinematics, stylized in-game shots, and gameplay moments without a visible HUD.
Key Take Aways
- 4 New Vault Hunters
- New Planet
- New Enemies
- Grappling Hook
- Solo, 2-player Splitscreen on consoles, and 4-player online co-op.
- Gameplay debut in early 2025
Introduction
The trailer takes place after the cataclysmic arrival of Pandora’s moon (Elpis) which we saw in the Borderlands 4 Teaser Trailer at Gamescom 2024 ONL. The new planet is called Kairos and is controlled by the ruthless dictator known as the Timekeeper. Elpis’ arrival has disrupted his perfect order and gave rise to a horde known as the Rippers. This new faction is led by their terrifying Queen, Callis, and they will face down The Timekeeper and his army of synthetic soldiers, known as The Order. By the time the Vault Hunters crash land on Kairos, the planet is a powder keg waiting to explode.
My Takeaway
Borderlands 4 looks very interesting in this debut trailer. The setup looks intriguing and the designs look next level. I think I can have fun in this world as the envoirements look fresh, while staying true to the Borderlands vibe, and it looks like we are getting new loot, which makes the gameplay fresh and exciting.
I still want to learn more about the 4 Playable Vault Hunters in Borderlands 4 as they didn’t directly speak to me during my first impression but after watching the trailer a couple of times, they are starting to grow on me. Mainly the Siren and the big Berzerker guy, although, I’m not a fan of Melee action skills. I think the Borderlands 3 reveal trailer presented their playable characters better as they clearly showcased what the Vault Hunters were about.
I’m getting Ghost in the Shell vibes from those mechanically augmented Psychos, which is a WIN in my book. Then you get this amazing huge battlefield shot as if you are in an Avengers movie that puts this chaotic force up against these higher beings that are well-ordered and organized.
While we are at it with the Avengers references; the Timekeeper floats there like Kang the Conqueror. Maybe Gearbox Software is going to deliver what Marvel didn’t and we will see a true badass villain. I know some folks didn’t like the final execution of the Calypso Twins in Borderlands 3 but Gearbox initially had everyone going, and folks were rooting for Troy.
Trailer Breakdown
Trailer Song: Fontaines D.C. – Starburster (Official Video)
Here you can find my Trailer breakdown as I went frame-by-frame and carefully analyzed all the footage.
