Highlights
Borderlands 4 could reach new heights by incorporating class-based mechanics from Remnant 2, offering unique abilities and playstyles that shape the gameplay experience.
Remnant 2 offers a seamless class-switching feature during gameplay, enhancing the overall experience with increased dynamism and customization options compared to Borderlands games.
While the inclusion of new classes in Borderlands 4 may pose development challenges, research indicates that players often prefer sticking to a single character in Borderlands. Therefore, promoting greater experimentation in character selection would be a valuable endeavor.
Fans of the Borderlands franchise eagerly anticipate the next installment, hoping for new innovations and improvements in the expansive world of Pandora. One potential game-changer for Borderlands 4 is the integration of class-based mechanics from Remnant 2. With 11 unique classes, Remnant 2 offers players a variety of abilities and playstyles that greatly impact the gameplay experience. The addition of a similar class-based system in Borderlands 4 raises expectations for an even better release compared to its highly successful predecessor.
In Remnant 2, players must select a starting class from four options after completing the introduction section. Pre-ordering the game grants access to an exclusive fifth class called the Gunslinger, specializing in long-range combat with homing missiles that deal high amounts of damage. Another option is the Hunter, a long-ranged specialist equipped with a precise sniper rifle capable of inflicting significant damage to enemies' weak points. On the other hand, the Challenger class excels in short-range combat, using a shield to absorb incoming damage and delivering powerful blasts with its shotgun. Valuable support abilities are also available, such as the Medic's ability to restore health to fallen players using a revive grenade, and the Handler's capacity to enhance allies and weaken foes with the assistance of its companion dog in battles.
Class Switching Could be a Game Changer in Borderlands 4
In Remnant 2, players are able to unlock additional classes as they progress, expanding their choices and enhancing their overall gaming experience. Unlike previous versions of Borderlands, where changing classes meant creating a new file and saving progress separately for each archetype, Remnant 2 introduced a seamless switching mechanism that allows players to change classes during gameplay without any restrictions. This effortless transition between diverse character groups greatly influenced the positive reception of Remnant 2, resulting in impressive sales shortly after its release.
Additionally, Remnant 2 introduces the feature of combining two classes as players advance. Upon reaching a specific point in the game, players can equip a second class, enabling them to harness the abilities of both classes simultaneously. This dual-class capability works harmoniously with any archetype, providing players with exceptional flexibility during combat situations. By carefully selecting two classes that complement each other's strengths and weaknesses, players can refine their approach to battles and customize their gameplay experience according to their preferences. This added dimension enhances the gameplay and would undoubtedly offer players a more dynamic experience if incorporated into Borderlands 4.
Introducing new features may initially pose challenges, as developing new classes requires significant time and effort. This process of creating and balancing classes may also divert valuable resources away from other aspects of the game. However, research conducted by Gearbox reveals that many players tend to stick with a single character in Borderlands 2, possibly due to the limitations associated with changing classes. This finding provides extra motivation for the developer to incorporate this dynamic. Additionally, the integration of DLC characters in Borderlands 2 deeply engaged players in the world of Pandora, establishing the game as a fan favorite.
Drawing inspiration from this success, Borderlands 4 could greatly benefit from the addition of additional classes. The unique groups featured in Remnant 2 present a fresh perspective on collaborative gameplay, and their potential impact on Borderlands 4 has the potential to significantly enhance the overall gaming experience. Gearbox Software has a remarkable opportunity to elevate Borderlands by incorporating a more adaptable class structure. As gamers eagerly anticipate the next installment in the series, incorporating Remnant 2's best class strategies holds immense potential for the upcoming Borderlands adventure.
Remnant 2 is now available on PC, PS5, and Xbox Series X/S.