Should You Vault In Blind? Borderlands 1 & 2 Before 3: The Definitive Guide
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Do you need to play Borderlands 1 and 2 before diving headfirst into the chaotic world of Borderlands 3? The short answer is: no, you don’t need to. Borderlands 3 is designed to be accessible to new players, with a standalone narrative, fresh Vault Hunters, and a brand-new threat to contend with. However, the should you is a different question entirely. And the answer to that, my friend, is a resounding absolutely yes!
While you won’t be completely lost jumping into Borderlands 3 without prior knowledge, you’ll be missing out on a rich tapestry of lore, character development, and inside jokes that elevate the entire experience. Think of it like watching the final season of a beloved TV show without having seen the previous ones. You might understand the basic plot, but you’ll miss the nuances, the callbacks, and the emotional weight behind certain character interactions.
Borderlands is more than just a looter-shooter; it’s a universe with its own history, recurring characters, and a distinctive sense of humor. Playing Borderlands 1 and 2 (and even the Pre-Sequel and Tales from the Borderlands) provides context that dramatically enhances your understanding of the world and the motivations of its inhabitants.
Here’s why I wholeheartedly recommend experiencing the earlier entries before tackling Borderlands 3:
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Character Investment: Borderlands 1 and 2 introduce you to the original Vault Hunters: Lilith, Roland, Mordecai, and Brick. These characters play significant roles in Borderlands 3, and understanding their backstories, relationships, and personal struggles adds layers of depth to their appearances. You’ll actually care about what happens to them, rather than just seeing them as random NPCs.
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Unraveling the Lore: The Borderlands universe has a surprisingly deep and intricate lore. Borderlands 1 sets the stage, introducing the concept of Vaults, Eridians, and the corporate greed that fuels the conflicts on Pandora. Borderlands 2 expands upon this foundation, revealing more about the Vaults and the sinister machinations of Hyperion. Borderlands 3 builds upon all of this, exploring new planets and expanding the scope of the universe. Jumping straight into Borderlands 3 means missing out on years of world-building and character introductions.
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Appreciating the Humor: The Borderlands series is renowned for its quirky humor and memorable characters. Many of the jokes and references in Borderlands 3 are callbacks to earlier games. Without that context, many of these moments will fall flat.
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Gameplay Evolution: Playing the games in order allows you to appreciate the evolution of the Borderlands gameplay. Each game has its own distinct feel, and by experiencing them in sequence, you can see how the mechanics have been refined and improved over time. While Borderlands 3 boasts the most polished gameplay, the earlier games offer unique challenges and experiences that are worth exploring. Borderlands 2 has been argued as a very complete experience that would be worthwhile to start with.
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Tales from the Borderlands Impact: This entry is often considered separate, but it is imperative to play before Borderlands 3. It introduces key characters like Rhys and Fiona, whose stories have huge implications in Borderlands 3. The game has amazing storytelling and should not be skipped.
Ultimately, the decision of whether to play Borderlands 1 and 2 before 3 is a personal one. However, if you’re looking for the most immersive and rewarding experience, I strongly encourage you to start at the beginning and work your way through the series in order. You won’t regret it.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are 15 frequently asked questions about playing Borderlands games in order, to provide even more clarity:
Should I play Borderlands 1 before 2?
While not strictly necessary, playing Borderlands 1 before Borderlands 2 is highly recommended if you’re interested in the lore and character development. Borderlands 2 builds upon the foundation established in the first game, and you’ll appreciate the returning characters and plot points much more if you’ve experienced their origins.
Which Borderlands game should I start with?
Borderlands 2 is generally considered the best starting point for new players. It features a more engaging story, more refined gameplay, and a wider variety of characters and environments than Borderlands 1. However, if you’re a stickler for chronological order, starting with Borderlands 1 is perfectly fine.
Is Borderlands 3 beginner-friendly?
Yes, Borderlands 3 is designed to be accessible to new players. It introduces new characters, a new story, and plenty of tutorials to help you get acquainted with the gameplay mechanics.
Is Borderlands 3 better than 2?
Whether Borderlands 3 is “better” than Borderlands 2 is subjective. Borderlands 3 boasts more polished gameplay, superior graphics, and a vast array of weapons and customization options. However, many players prefer the story, characters, and overall atmosphere of Borderlands 2.
How many years between Borderlands 2 and 3?
Borderlands 3 takes place approximately seven years after the events of Borderlands 2 and Tales from the Borderlands.
Is it okay to skip Borderlands: The Pre-Sequel?
Borderlands: The Pre-Sequel offers unique insights into the backstory of Handsome Jack and expands upon the lore of the Borderlands universe. It’s a fun game with some interesting mechanics, but it’s not essential to understanding the plot of Borderlands 3. Consider playing it after Borderlands 2 if you’re craving more Borderlands content.
What is the best order to play the Borderlands games?
Here’s my recommended order:
- Borderlands
- Borderlands 2
- Borderlands: The Pre-Sequel
- Tales from the Borderlands
- Borderlands 3
Do I need to play Tales from the Borderlands before Borderlands 3?
Yes, absolutely! Tales from the Borderlands features characters and plot points that are directly relevant to the story of Borderlands 3. Skipping it will leave you missing out on some important context.
Is Borderlands 3 worth it without the DLC?
Borderlands 3 is still a worthwhile experience without the DLC, but the DLC packs offer significant additions to the story, characters, and gameplay. If you enjoy the base game, I highly recommend checking out the DLC.
Is Borderlands 3 easy to play solo?
Borderlands 3 is designed to be playable solo, although some characters are better suited for solo play than others. With the right build and strategy, you can conquer the game without any assistance.
Is Borderlands beginner-friendly?
Yes, Borderlands is a relatively beginner-friendly series, especially compared to other RPGs. The gameplay is straightforward, the character progression is manageable, and the humor makes the experience enjoyable even if you’re not a hardcore gamer. The Games Learning Society has fantastic resources for understanding complex game mechanics. Check them out at https://www.gameslearningsociety.org/.
Who is the best character to start with in Borderlands 3?
Moze the Gunner is often recommended as the best character for beginners in Borderlands 3. Her Iron Bear mech provides a powerful advantage in combat, making her more forgiving for new players.
How long does it take to beat Borderlands 3?
The main story of Borderlands 3 takes around 23 hours to complete. However, if you’re a completionist and want to experience all the side quests and challenges, you can easily spend 70+ hours in the game.
Are Borderlands 1 and 2 connected?
Yes, Borderlands 2 features returning characters and plot points from Borderlands 1, but it’s designed to be accessible to new players who haven’t played the first game.
Will there be a Borderlands 4?
While Gearbox Software hasn’t officially announced Borderlands 4, rumors and speculation suggest that the game is already in development and could be released sooner than expected. Only time will tell!
Ultimately, playing Borderlands 1 and 2 before 3 is a decision that depends on your personal preferences and goals. However, if you value story, character development, and a deeper understanding of the Borderlands universe, I wholeheartedly recommend experiencing the games in order. You’ll be rewarded with a richer, more immersive, and ultimately more satisfying gaming experience. Now go out there and become a Vault Hunter!