How to Master the Jump Slam in Borderlands 3: A Comprehensive Guide

The jump slam, also known as a ground slam or ground pound, is a powerful and versatile move in Borderlands 3. It allows you to quickly close the distance to enemies, deal area-of-effect damage, break through certain obstacles, and generally add a dynamic flair to your combat style. Mastering this technique is crucial for any Vault Hunter looking to dominate Pandora and beyond. So, how exactly do you execute this move? The answer is simple: jump and then crouch while in the air.

The Basics of the Jump Slam

The core mechanic of the jump slam is straightforward. After leaping into the air, you need to activate the crouch function. On most consoles, this is done by pressing the right analog stick button (R3 on PlayStation controllers or RS on Xbox controllers) or the ‘B’ button on Xbox or ‘O’ button on PlayStation. On PC, this is usually the Ctrl key. Upon pressing the crouch input in mid-air, your character will quickly descend to the ground, landing with a forceful impact that generates a shockwave.

Understanding the Functionality

The jump slam isn’t just a flashy maneuver. It serves multiple purposes:

• Area-of-Effect Damage: When you land your slam, the shockwave will damage any enemies within a certain radius. This is incredibly useful for taking down groups of weaker enemies or softening up tougher foes.
• Crowd Control: The force of the slam can knock back or stun enemies, providing a brief window for you to reposition or unleash more precise attacks.
• Traversal: Some areas have breakable objects or specific environmental features, like doors, that can only be opened by using the jump slam.
• Mobility: The jump slam allows you to quickly change your position vertically, which can be vital for evading enemy fire or getting the high ground.

Practice Makes Perfect

Like any skill, consistently performing a jump slam requires practice. It may seem clumsy at first, but with a few tries, you will get the hang of the timing. Head to an area with lots of open space and start by simply jumping and immediately pressing the crouch button. Experiment with different jump heights and different timings for the crouch input to get a feel for the mechanics.

Advanced Techniques & Tips

Once you’ve mastered the basic execution, you can start incorporating some advanced techniques:

• Jump-Slam Combo: This technique involves performing a jump slam directly after another action, like firing a weapon or deploying a skill. Practice linking the jump slam to your existing attack patterns to optimize your offensive strategy.
• Height Management: Try controlling the height of your jump before initiating the slam. By adjusting your jump, you can control how quickly you descend and the impact timing.
• Strategic Positioning: Think about where your enemies are before jumping. A well-placed jump slam can clear an area or provide a tactical advantage for your next move.
• Using the Right Gear: Some character builds and legendary gear items can enhance your slam’s damage and area of effect. Experiment with different setups to discover what works best for you.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can you map the jump slam to a different button?

In the console versions of the game, you can remap the crouch button which would also affect the jump slam. However, on PC, you may find more customization options for key bindings. Be sure to check out your in-game settings for this functionality.

2. Is there a way to increase the damage of a jump slam?

Yes, certain skills in your skill trees can enhance the damage of your ground slam. Additionally, legendary weapons and class mods may have specific bonuses that boost slam damage. Also, in Elden Ring, the Ash of War: Ground Slam scales with weapon level and strength.

3. Can you use the jump slam to break every door in the game?

No, some doors and barriers are designed to be opened only through specific mechanics, like switches or quests. However, you can indeed use the slam to break down specific obstacles.

4. Does jump slamming have any special effects?

The main special effect of the jump slam is the shockwave it creates. Some unique gear or skills will add to that shockwave. For example, some may add elemental damage to the shockwave.

5. Can you ground slam multiple times in the air?

No, you can only execute the ground slam once during a jump. You need to land and then jump again to perform another one.

6. Is the jump slam only available to specific characters?

No, every Vault Hunter has access to the jump slam ability. It is a universal move that any player can utilize.

7. What is the difference between a ‘ground pound’ and a ‘jump slam’?

Both terms refer to the same action: Jumping and then crouching while in the air to forcefully hit the ground, which produces a shockwave. Some use “ground pound” and “jump slam” interchangeably.

8. How high do you have to jump to perform a jump slam?

The slam move can be initiated at any point while airborne. You do not need to be at a maximum height. However, if you are too close to the ground it may not perform properly.

9. Are there areas where the jump slam is more useful than others?

The jump slam is especially useful in areas with lots of enemies grouped together. Also, if there are destructible floors or doors, the slam is very important.

10. Can the jump slam cause friendly fire?

No, the jump slam shockwave will not damage friendly players. It will only damage enemies.

11. Does the jump slam benefit from melee damage boosts?

Generally, the jump slam’s primary damage is treated as an area of effect attack, not as a melee attack. Therefore, melee damage bonuses often won’t impact it. However, certain specific skills and gear could change this behavior.

12. Can the jump slam knock back or stun enemies?

Yes, the jump slam can knock back weaker enemies or interrupt and stun others. The effects depend on the specific enemies and their resistance.

13. Is it possible to jump slam in mid-air without a jump?

No, the jump slam is always initiated from a jump. You can’t simply slam into the ground from a standstill. You need the initial boost provided by a jump to perform the slam.

14. What happens if you are already close to the ground when you jump slam?

If you are already too close to the ground you may not complete the full slam effect. You must be high enough in the air to allow the fall to generate enough force.

15. Are there any tutorials in the game that teach the jump slam?

The game introduces the jump slam through in-game tutorials, particularly in the early parts of the campaign. Always pay attention to the onscreen prompts and tips, as they will guide you in using the mechanics of the game.

Final Thoughts

Mastering the jump slam is a critical step for becoming a proficient Borderlands 3 player. By understanding its mechanics, exploring advanced techniques, and practicing regularly, you’ll be well-equipped to take on any challenge Pandora throws at you. Remember to jump, then crouch in the air, and you’ll be slammin’ your way to victory in no time. Good luck and happy hunting, Vault Hunter!