Borderlands 4 reviews are finally here, and the verdict might surprise you. After years of anticipation, critics have had their say on Gearbox’s latest looter-shooter, and the results are more nuanced than you’d expect.
What Critics Are Saying About Borderlands 4
The early Borderlands 4 reviews paint a picture of a game that’s both familiar and refreshingly improved. Critics are praising the enhanced customization options and revamped boss battles, while some point out lingering performance issues that might frustrate players.
Here’s what stands out from the review roundup:
- Perfect scores from unexpected sources: CGMagazine and XboxEra both awarded perfect 10/10 ratings
- Consistent praise for gameplay mechanics: Most reviewers highlighted improved movement and combat systems
- Mixed feelings about story direction: Some critics felt the narrative lacks the series’ signature humor
- Technical concerns persist: Several reviews mentioned performance issues and underutilized Unreal Engine 5 capabilities
Borderlands 4 Reviews Score Breakdown
The review scores tell an interesting story. While most outlets are scoring the game positively, there’s a wider spread than typical AAA releases:
| Publication | Score | Key Takeaway |
|---|---|---|
| CGMagazine | 10/10 | Perfect alignment of gameplay and mechanics |
| XboxEra | 10/10 | Called it a “masterpiece” |
| WellPlayed | 9/10 | Series reaches full potential |
| GameSpot | 7/10 | Too similar to Borderlands 3 |
| Gameblog | 7/10 | Lost some series identity |
The Good: What Borderlands 4 Gets Right
Most Borderlands 4 reviews agree on several key improvements. The customization system has received a major overhaul, giving players more freedom to tailor their experience. Critics consistently praise the enhanced mobility mechanics, which make traversing the open world feel more fluid and engaging.
The boss battles have been completely reimagined, according to multiple reviewers. Instead of bullet sponges, these encounters now feel more dynamic and strategic. One reviewer noted that each boss fight feels like a puzzle to solve rather than just a damage race.
The Concerns: Where Critics Find Fault
However, the reviews aren’t universally glowing. Several critics mentioned that Borderlands 4 feels too safe, sticking too closely to the Borderlands 3 formula without taking enough risks. Performance issues also plague the experience, with multiple reviewers noting frame rate drops and optimization problems.
The biggest divide among critics seems to be the story and humor. Some feel the game has lost the irreverent charm that made earlier entries special, while others appreciate the more serious tone.
What This Means for Players
Based on these early reviews, Borderlands 4 appears to be a solid entry that will satisfy series fans while potentially attracting newcomers. The improved mechanics and open-world design seem to address many complaints about previous entries, though some technical rough edges remain.
For co-op enthusiasts, the reviews are particularly encouraging. Multiple critics emphasized how much better the game becomes when played with friends, suggesting the multiplayer experience has been refined.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are critics saying about Borderlands 4 gameplay?
Most reviews praise the improved movement mechanics, enhanced customization options, and revamped boss battles. Critics consistently highlight that the core looter-shooter loop feels more refined than ever.
Are there performance issues in Borderlands 4?
Yes, several reviews mention performance problems and note that the game hasn’t fully utilized Unreal Engine 5’s capabilities. Frame rate drops and optimization issues were commonly reported.
How does Borderlands 4 compare to Borderlands 3?
Reviews suggest it feels like a direct sequel to Borderlands 3, with some critics feeling it plays things too safe. However, the open-world design and improved mechanics offer meaningful upgrades.
Is the story good in Borderlands 4?
Critics are divided on the story. Some appreciate the more serious tone, while others miss the irreverent humor that defined earlier games. The narrative seems to be the most polarizing aspect among reviewers.
Should I buy Borderlands 4 at launch?
Based on reviews, if you’re a series fan, you’ll likely enjoy it despite some technical issues. New players might want to wait for patches to address performance problems.
How good is the co-op experience in Borderlands 4?
Reviews consistently praise the co-op experience, with several critics noting the game truly shines when played with friends. The multiplayer elements appear to be well-refined.
What’s the biggest improvement in Borderlands 4?
According to reviews, the enhanced customization system and improved mobility mechanics are the standout improvements that make the biggest difference to the overall experience.
The Bottom Line
The Borderlands 4 reviews reveal a game that successfully builds on the series’ strengths while addressing some long-standing issues. While it might not revolutionize the franchise, it appears to offer the most polished Borderlands experience yet.
Critics seem confident that series fans will find plenty to love, even if some technical hiccups and safe design choices prevent it from being a universal masterpiece. For anyone on the fence, the consistent praise for co-op gameplay and improved mechanics suggests this could be the perfect entry point for newcomers to the series.