Borderlands 3's Takedowns are demanding, rewarding, and enjoyable. However, for Borderlands 4, it would be beneficial to reintroduce some of the previous franchise's endgame content. The endgame activities in each Borderlands game have undergone significant changes, ranging from wave defenses to Raid bosses and now a combination of both with Takedowns. Borderlands 4 can learn from its predecessors, as well as from other games in the genre. The endgame content significantly impacts players' experiences, so there is immense pressure for Borderlands 4 to offer a worthwhile endgame. While taking a new approach could be promising, incorporating the best endgame content from previous games would further enhance the experience.
Takedowns in Borderlands 3 are reminiscent of Destiny 2's strikes, which involve a series of combat challenges and objectives leading up to a final boss fight. Although Takedowns incorporate elements from existing endgame activities in the Borderlands franchise, they do not fully capture the magic of their influences. Essentially, Borderlands 3's Takedowns combine Circle of Slaughters with Raid bosses, incorporating minor puzzle elements. Considering this, Borderlands 4 should bring back the older endgame activities in their entirety while continuing to explore the concept of Takedowns. There are valuable lessons that games like Destiny and Borderlands can learn from each other, although past Borderlands games may already provide the necessary inspiration for Borderlands 4.
Borderlands 4 Has a Big Name to Live up to At This Point
Traditional Raid bosses should make a comeback in Borderlands 4 since they were largely absent in Borderlands 3. Borderlands 2's Raid bosses were well-received by players and played a significant role in making it their favorite game in the franchise. While Raid bosses have been a part of the series since the original Borderlands, Borderlands 2 took it a step further by offering a variety of unique enemies for players to battle and loot from. Bringing back these epic fights in a future Borderlands game, such as Borderlands 4, would certainly please many players and missing this opportunity would be a mistake.
Additionally, the Circle of Slaughter arenas should also remain in Borderlands 4, especially if the game aims to bring back all types of endgame content from previous Borderlands titles. These wave defense challenges not only help players reach the maximum level but also serve as a great source for farming legendary items in the endgame. Despite the introduction of Raid bosses and Takedowns, the Circle of Slaughter arenas have continued to be a popular feature. Therefore, it would be wise to include them in Borderlands 4, even considering the possibility of giving them a fresh look or update.
Borderlands 4 should aim to offer players a wide range of challenges and content in its endgame. By incorporating the best elements from previous Borderlands games, along with exploring new activities, the game can provide an engaging experience. Considering the increasing diversity in the looter-shooter genre, Borderlands 4 has many other games to draw inspiration from. However, it would also benefit from incorporating the best features from its own franchise. Including Circles of Slaughter, classic raid bosses, and Takedowns would result in a rich and extensive endgame for Borderlands 4.