Why the Original Borderlands Reigns Supreme Over Newer Releases

The Borderlands franchise has come a long way since the debut of its first game, introducing various entries, spin-offs, and downloadable content that have expanded its in-game world. With its unparalleled blend of chaotic action and distinctive comic book-inspired graphics, Borderlands has set itself apart from other sci-fi FPS and action RPG titles, earning a loyal fanbase eager to discover what lies ahead. While Borderlands 4 remains shrouded in mystery with no official information or release date yet announced, there has been intense speculation about the future direction of the series.

Despite the passage of almost fifteen years and the release of three mainline titles, there are still some aspects that the series has yet to surpass since its inaugural offering. In creating the next installment, 2K would be wise to draw inspiration from the original Borderlands, particularly with regards to certain key elements. While some of the gameplay mechanics may be outdated, and certain features have undoubtedly been improved upon over the course of the series, none of the subsequent games have quite managed to capture the same magic as the first in terms of how it presented the world of Pandora.

The Original Borderlands' Impact

The first Borderlands game, set in the distant future of 2864, provided players with a thrilling introduction to a unique world. The planet of Pandora, a perilous wasteland overrun with hostile wildlife and ravaged by corporate greed, serves as a perfect backdrop for the game's chaotic action. What sets the original game apart is its ability to effectively immerse players in the harsh, yet memorable, landscape of Pandora. From its captivating intro track and scene setting to its overall vibe, the game captures the essence of the desolate world and seamlessly integrates it into the gameplay. While subsequent Borderlands games revisit Pandora, including the Telltale Games episodic adventure Tales from the Borderlands, it's difficult to surpass the initial impact of the original game. The Pandora depicted in the first Borderlands game is a true wasteland, complete with deranged inhabitants, isolated locations, and a visual aesthetic that conveys the harshness of the planet in a believable manner.

Borderlands' gameplay may show its age in some aspects, but the game's setting and presentation still hold up remarkably well. The world of Pandora is a vivid and immersive place, full of interesting characters, unique landscapes, and a palpable sense of danger. As the franchise moves forward, it would be wise to take cues from the first game's approach to world-building and make sure that any new settings are just as memorable and engaging as Pandora.

How Borderlands Compares to Later Entries

One of the hallmarks of the Borderlands series is its ability to kick off each game with an unforgettable opening sequence. From the perfectly-timed musical cues to the introduction of its unique cast of characters, Borderlands sets the standard for immersive storytelling. The first game in the series is particularly noteworthy for its perfect balance of humor and style, and its depiction of the vast, desolate world of Pandora and its quirky inhabitants remains unmatched even in later installments.

The Borderlands franchise has consistently improved with each subsequent release, building upon the foundation established by its predecessors. Notably, the visuals have been enhanced, gameplay has become more intricate and enjoyable, and the characters and storylines have become more complex and eccentric. Even with successful spinoffs such as Tiny Tina's Wonderlands, the franchise still holds a special place for many fans with its initial release. As the series looks towards the future, there is much excitement for the possibilities that lie ahead, but it may prove difficult for future installments to match the impact of the first game.

Borderlands is available on Nintendo Switch, PC, PlayStation 3, PlayStation 4, Xbox 360, and Xbox One.