Gearbox Software has shifted the clock forward on its eagerly awaited Borderlands 4, now slated to hit PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC on September 12, 2025—an earlier release than the previously announced late-September window. The Nintendo Switch 2 version arrives shortly after, in early October.
The decision to move up the date, revealed via a hastily posted (and then retracted) video by Gearbox CEO Randy Pitchford, underscores the studio’s confidence in the game’s development progress, rather than any external factors. The ambitious release literally “went up in smoke,” Pitchford joked, before the team confirmed it shortly thereafter.
Set against the vibrant but dangerous backdrop of the planet Kairos, Borderlands 4 introduces players to four new Vault Hunters—each with unique abilities and gameplay styles—embroiled in a rebellion sparked by a rogue moon crash and upheaval of the tyrannical Timekeeper’s control. The game promises lightning-fast co-op action, explosive loot dynamics, and refined RPG mechanics centered around crafting, combat, and traversal upgrades such as double jumps and grappling hooks.
On the technical front, Borderlands 4 leverages Unreal Engine 5 to deliver seamless transitions between zones, minimal loading, and a visually striking art style that remains true to the franchise’s cel-shaded roots. Post-launch support is robust, with scalable difficulty levels, endgame content like Ultimate Vault Hunter Mode, rotating weekly challenges, and powerful new gear types set to keep players engaged well beyond the campaign’s conclusion.
However, it’s the topic of pricing that’s sparked the most heated discussions. Initially, fans speculated that Borderlands 4 might follow recent industry trends and launch at a heightened $80 price point. Pitchford’s response—calling fans who can’t pay “not real fans”—drew swift backlash, prompting apologies and clarifications from the studio. Ultimately, fans were relieved to learn the standard edition will retail for $70, maintaining what Gearbox calls a reasonable increase to match a development budget that’s more than double that of Borderlands 3.
Meanwhile, pre-orders are available in tiered editions, ranging from the base Standard offering to Deluxe and Super Deluxe bundles priced at $100 and $130, respectively. These come packed with cosmetic items, DLC access, and bonus content, catering to both casual players and franchise die-hards.
Reactions among the gaming community are mixed but hopeful. Some applaud the earlier release—an affirmation of Gearbox’s capability and momentum—while others remain critical of the pricing rhetoric. Still, optimism runs high, as fans gear up to dive into a new, thrilling chapter of their favorite looter-shooter franchise. With a near-finalized release date and detailed content roadmap, Borderlands 4 is gearing up to be not just a solid continuation, but a defining moment in Gearbox’s legacy.
