The Ultimate Beginner’s Guide to Guns in Borderlands 2: Finding Your Perfect Starting Weapon

The sprawling world of Borderlands 2 can be overwhelming, especially for newcomers. With countless guns, modifications, and playstyles to explore, choosing the best starting weapon feels like navigating a minefield. Fear not, Vault Hunter! While personal preference plays a role, one gun stands out as a fantastic choice for beginners: the Vladof Assault Rifle.

Why a Vladof Assault Rifle? Because its high fire rate and generous magazine size offer a forgiving playstyle perfect for learning the game’s mechanics. Missing shots is less punishing, and you can sustain damage output even with shaky aim. Plus, they are relatively common, making them easier to find early in the game. Don’t get hung up on specific models early on, just look for the Vladof manufacturer and get to shooting! Let’s explore why this weapon is such a great starting point, as well as answer some frequently asked questions to fully prepare you for your adventure across Pandora.

Mastering the Early Game Arsenal

While the Vladof Assault Rifle provides a solid foundation, understanding the nuances of different weapon types and their early-game viability will significantly boost your survival chances. Here’s a brief overview:

• Pistols: Early on, pistols are plentiful but often lack the stopping power of other weapons. Look for pistols with elemental effects (fire, shock, corrosive, slag) for dealing with specific enemy types. A Maliwan pistol with a high elemental chance can be a lifesaver against armored enemies.

• Shotguns: Powerful at close range, shotguns excel in tight corridors and against charging enemies. Jakobs shotguns, in particular, are devastating due to their high damage per shot. However, their slow reload speed requires careful aiming and positioning.

• SMGs: Submachine guns offer a balanced approach, with decent fire rate and accuracy. Hyperion SMGs become more accurate the longer you fire them, rewarding sustained attacks. Like pistols, elemental SMGs can provide a tactical advantage.

• Sniper Rifles: While sniper rifles offer high damage at long range, they demand precision aiming, which can be challenging for beginners. Focus on other weapon types until you’re comfortable with the game’s aiming mechanics. Early game snipers can be effective though, just focus on landing those critical hits.

• Rocket Launchers: Reserved for powerful enemies or dire situations, rocket launchers deliver massive burst damage but consume ammunition quickly. Save them for boss fights or when you’re overwhelmed by a horde of enemies.

Beyond the Basics: Essential Tips for New Vault Hunters

Finding the right gun is only half the battle. To truly excel in Borderlands 2, consider these crucial tips:

• Match Elemental Damage to Enemy Types: Fire melts flesh, corrosive eats armor, shock fries shields, and slag amplifies damage taken. Utilizing these elemental advantages is key to efficient combat.
• Utilize Cover: Pandora is a dangerous place. Use cover strategically to avoid taking unnecessary damage and to reload safely.
• Experiment with Different Gun Types: Don’t be afraid to try out different weapons and manufacturers to discover your preferred playstyle. Each manufacturer has it’s own strengths.
• Complete Side Missions: Side missions offer valuable experience, loot, and insight into the world of Pandora. They’re an excellent way to level up and acquire better gear.
• Don’t Hoard Your Money: Upgrade your backpack and ammo capacity early on. These upgrades will significantly improve your inventory management and combat effectiveness.
• Play with Friends: Borderlands 2 is best experienced with friends. Cooperative play makes the game easier and more enjoyable. Consider joining the Games Learning Society for cooperative gaming opportunities with other players. GamesLearningSociety.org
• Understand Gun Parts: Each manufacturer uses specific parts for each gun. This is true for the body, sights, barrel, magazine, etc. Each of these parts can alter stats of your gun. For example, Tediore reloads are done by throwing the gun to the ground and it explodes. You’ll be able to recognize the manufacturer after identifying the parts.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: What’s the best way to farm for early-game weapons?

Target specific bosses that drop desired weapons. For example, Knuckle Dragger drops the Hornet pistol, a powerful corrosive weapon. Alternatively, focus on completing quests that reward weapons. And of course, opening any chests you see in the world.

Q2: How important are weapon prefixes?

Very important! Prefixes modify weapon stats and behavior. For example, a “Rapid” prefix increases the fire rate, while an “Accurate” prefix improves accuracy. While important, new players shouldn’t focus on these, just learn the basics.

Q3: What’s the difference between weapon rarities?

Weapon rarities are indicated by color: White (Common), Green (Uncommon), Blue (Rare), Purple (Epic), Orange (Legendary), and Pearlescent. Higher rarities generally have better stats and unique effects.

Q4: Should I sell my old weapons?

Yes, sell weapons you no longer need to vendors to earn money for upgrades and ammunition. Prioritize selling lower-rarity weapons first.

Q5: What’s the significance of weapon manufacturers?

Each manufacturer specializes in different weapon characteristics:

• Vladof: High fire rate and large magazine size.
• Jakobs: High damage per shot and critical hit bonus.
• Tediore: Quick reload and weapon throw explosions.
• Torgue: High damage and explosive projectiles.
• Maliwan: Elemental effects and status chance.
• Hyperion: Increasing accuracy with sustained fire.
• Dahl: Burst-fire and accuracy.

Q6: How do I unlock more weapon slots?

You can purchase backpack upgrades from Marcus Munitions in Sanctuary. These upgrades increase your inventory capacity, allowing you to carry more weapons and items.

Q7: What are Seraph Crystals and how do I get them?

Seraph Crystals are a special currency earned by defeating raid bosses in the DLC. These crystals can be used to purchase unique Seraph weapons and items from Seraph vendors. Don’t worry about these early in the game.

Q8: What’s the best class mod for early-game players?

Experiment with class mods that enhance your preferred weapon type or playstyle. Look for mods that increase weapon damage, fire rate, or magazine size. Focus on finding any class mod early on, until you get to later levels.

Q9: What’s the role of Badass Rank?

Badass Rank is a system that rewards you for completing challenges. Earning Badass Rank unlocks tokens that can be spent to improve character stats, such as gun damage, reload speed, and shield capacity. Focus on these when you can.

Q10: What’s the best way to deal with shielded enemies early in the game?

Use shock weapons to quickly deplete enemy shields. Alternatively, target the shield generator on the enemy’s back.

Q11: Are there any hidden weapons or secret areas in the early game?

Yes, there are several hidden weapons and areas to discover. Explore the world thoroughly and keep an eye out for clues and secrets. Google is your friend.

Q12: How do I get better at aiming in Borderlands 2?

Practice makes perfect! Adjust your sensitivity settings to find a comfortable level. Focus on aiming for critical hit locations (usually the head) to maximize damage.

Q13: What is slag and how does it work?

Slag is an elemental effect that amplifies damage taken by enemies. Applying slag to an enemy makes them more vulnerable to other damage types.

Q14: Is it worth using Golden Keys early in the game?

Yes, Golden Keys can provide access to powerful weapons and items that can give you a significant advantage in the early game. Use them wisely.

Q15: Where can I find more information and tips about Borderlands 2?

Consult online guides, forums, and wikis for in-depth information about Borderlands 2. These resources can provide valuable insights into weapon stats, enemy weaknesses, and gameplay strategies.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right gun in Borderlands 2 is a crucial step towards mastering the game. By understanding the strengths and weaknesses of different weapon types, utilizing elemental advantages, and following the tips outlined in this guide, you’ll be well on your way to becoming a legendary Vault Hunter. So grab your Vladof Assault Rifle, explore Pandora, and remember: Loot, Shoot, and Survive!