Borderlands: The Handsome Collection – Does It Include All Borderlands 2 DLC?
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Yes, Borderlands: The Handsome Collection includes almost all Borderlands 2 DLC. This collection, a definitive package for fans of the franchise, bundles Borderlands 2 and Borderlands: The Pre-Sequel into one glorious package. This means you get the core games and a mountain of extra content that will keep you looting and shooting for hours. However, there’s one crucial exception that many players often overlook: Commander Lilith & the Fight for Sanctuary. This DLC, released after the Handsome Collection, is not included and must be purchased separately.
What Is Included in the Handsome Collection?
Let’s break down exactly what you do get in this collection. The value proposition is significant. Imagine a treasure chest overflowing with weapons, characters, and adventures. That’s the Handsome Collection.
- Borderlands 2: The main course! Explore Pandora, defeat Handsome Jack, and save the world (again!).
- Borderlands: The Pre-Sequel: While not strictly Borderlands 2 DLC, it’s part of the collection and provides valuable lore and backstory. Set between the events of Borderlands 1 and 2, it’s a must-play for dedicated fans.
And now, the real meat of the collection: the DLC! Get ready for:
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All Campaign Add-ons for Borderlands 2: These are substantial story expansions that add hours of gameplay. Think of them as mini-sequels. They include:
- Captain Scarlett and Her Pirate’s Booty: Swashbuckling adventure in a desert oasis!
- Mr. Torgue’s Campaign of Carnage: Explosions, explosions, and more explosions!
- Sir Hammerlock’s Big Game Hunt: Explore a savage continent filled with dangerous creatures.
- Tiny Tina’s Assault on Dragon Keep: Widely considered the best Borderlands 2 DLC, this is a hilarious and imaginative fantasy adventure.
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Playable Character Packs: Unlock new Vault Hunters with unique skill trees and playstyles. These include:
- Gaige, the Mechromancer: Summon Deathtrap, a powerful robot companion.
- Krieg, the Psycho: Unleash your inner madness with explosive melee attacks.
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Level Cap Upgrades: Push your characters to new heights with these packs:
- Ultimate Vault Hunter Upgrade Pack: Increases the level cap and adds a new difficulty mode.
- Ultimate Vault Hunter Upgrade Pack 2: Digistruct Peak Challenge: Further raises the level cap and introduces the challenging Digistruct Peak.
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Headhunter Packs: Smaller, self-contained adventures with unique bosses and rewards.
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A treasure trove of character customizations: Give your Vault Hunter a unique look with new heads and skins.
Essentially, the Handsome Collection gives you hundreds of hours of content. The sheer volume of gameplay is staggering. Whether you’re a seasoned Vault Hunter or a newcomer to Pandora, you’ll find plenty to keep you entertained.
Why is Commander Lilith & the Fight for Sanctuary Not Included?
This DLC was released well after the launch of The Handsome Collection as a bridge to Borderlands 3. This is why you won’t find it packaged in. It added significantly to the Borderlands 2 storyline and boosted the level cap, making it a worthwhile purchase for dedicated fans.
Is The Handsome Collection Still Worth Buying?
Absolutely! Even without the Commander Lilith DLC, Borderlands: The Handsome Collection offers incredible value. It provides countless hours of gameplay, and the remastered visuals and performance make it a great way to experience (or re-experience) these classic games. It is an excellent entry point for newcomers and a must-have for longtime fans. The Games Learning Society also recognizes the educational value in games like Borderlands, noting that they foster problem-solving, teamwork, and strategic thinking. Visit GamesLearningSociety.org for more information.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Does the Handsome Collection include Borderlands 1?
No, the Handsome Collection only includes Borderlands 2 and Borderlands: The Pre-Sequel. To play Borderlands 1, you’ll need to purchase it separately.
2. Can I transfer my save data from the PS3/Xbox 360 versions of Borderlands 2 to the Handsome Collection?
Yes! One of the major selling points of the Handsome Collection was the ability to transfer save data from the previous-generation consoles.
3. Is the Handsome Collection available on PC?
No, the Handsome Collection was specifically released for PlayStation 4 and Xbox One. However, you can purchase Borderlands 2 and its DLC separately on PC.
4. Does the Handsome Collection support split-screen co-op?
Yes! The Handsome Collection enhances local multiplayer, making it perfect for couch co-op sessions with friends.
5. What is the recommended order to play the games in the Handsome Collection?
It’s generally recommended to play Borderlands 2 first, followed by Borderlands: The Pre-Sequel. The Pre-Sequel contains spoilers for Borderlands 2.
6. What is the maximum level in Borderlands 2 with all DLC (including Commander Lilith)?
With all DLC, the maximum level cap is 80, with an additional 10 Overpower Levels (OP levels).
7. What are Overpower Levels (OP levels)?
OP levels allow you to continue progressing your character’s gear and abilities even after reaching the maximum level. Enemies and gear scale to your OP level, providing a constant challenge.
8. Which Borderlands 2 DLC is considered the best?
Many players consider Tiny Tina’s Assault on Dragon Keep to be the best Borderlands 2 DLC due to its creative setting, humorous writing, and challenging gameplay.
9. Are the Headhunter Packs worth buying?
The Headhunter Packs are shorter, more focused experiences. They can be fun diversions, but they are not as substantial as the main campaign DLC.
10. How do I access the DLC content in Borderlands 2 within the Handsome Collection?
Once installed, you can access the DLC campaigns by fast traveling to the new locations from any Fast Travel station in the game.
11. What are the differences between Borderlands 2 GOTY (Game of the Year) Edition and the Handsome Collection?
The Handsome Collection includes everything from the GOTY Edition, plus all subsequent DLC for Borderlands 2 and Borderlands: The Pre-Sequel, excluding Commander Lilith & the Fight for Sanctuary.
12. Is there cross-platform play between PlayStation and Xbox for the Handsome Collection?
No, the Handsome Collection does not support cross-platform play between PlayStation and Xbox.
13. Does the Handsome Collection improve the graphics and performance of Borderlands 2 and The Pre-Sequel?
Yes! The Handsome Collection features remastered visuals and improved performance compared to the original versions of the games. The game runs at 1080p resolution and a smoother framerate.
14. Is the Handsome Collection a good starting point for someone new to the Borderlands series?
Yes, it’s an excellent starting point. You get two full games with tons of content at a great price.
15. Where can I purchase the Commander Lilith & the Fight for Sanctuary DLC?
The Commander Lilith DLC can be purchased digitally through the PlayStation Store or Xbox Marketplace.