Can You Play Borderlands 3 Offline? A Vault Hunter’s Guide
Yes, Borderlands 3 is indeed playable offline! Whether you’re on PC (via Steam or Epic Games Store) or console (PlayStation or Xbox), you can dive into the world of Pandora and beyond without an internet connection. However, the process and limitations differ slightly depending on your platform. This guide will walk you through the ins and outs of playing Borderlands 3 offline and answer your burning questions.
Playing Offline: Platform by Platform
PC (Steam and Epic Games Store)
The procedure for playing Borderlands 3 offline on PC is reasonably straightforward:
- Launch your respective launcher: Open either the Steam or Epic Games launcher while you still have an internet connection. This step is crucial, as the launcher needs to verify your ownership of the game.
- Log In: Ensure you are logged into your account.
- Start the Game: Launch Borderlands 3 at least once while online. This allows the game to download any necessary files and cache your account information.
- Enable Offline Mode: Close the game. Steam has a specific “Go Offline” option in the “Steam” menu. For Epic Games, simply disconnecting from the internet after launching the game should suffice.
- Enjoy Offline Play: You can now launch Borderlands 3 without an active internet connection.
Important Note: You may need to re-establish an internet connection periodically for the launcher to re-verify your game license. This usually happens every few weeks. Also, updates and DLC require an internet connection to download and install.
Consoles (PlayStation and Xbox)
Playing offline on consoles is even simpler:
- Disconnect from the Internet: Either physically disconnect your console from the internet (unplug the Ethernet cable or disable Wi-Fi) or switch to offline mode in your console’s network settings.
- Launch the Game: Start Borderlands 3 as usual.
The console versions are generally more forgiving regarding offline play, but the same restrictions apply regarding updates and downloadable content. You’ll need an internet connection to download those.
Limitations of Offline Play
While offline play provides flexibility, it also comes with certain limitations:
- Multiplayer: Obviously, you cannot play with other players online when offline. This includes cooperative play and trading with friends.
- Updates and DLC: You won’t have access to the latest updates, patches, or downloadable content until you reconnect to the internet.
- Cloud Saves: While you play offline, your progress is saved locally. When you reconnect to the internet, your local saves should sync with the cloud. Make sure to allow enough time for the synchronization to be complete.
- Some Features: Certain online-dependent features, such as accessing news feeds or participating in certain events, may be unavailable.
Solo Play and Character Choice
Borderlands 3, despite being designed with co-op in mind, is perfectly enjoyable solo. Some characters, however, are better suited for solo play than others. Moze the Gunner, with her Iron Bear mech, is often considered a top choice for beginners and solo players. Iron Bear provides incredible firepower and survivability, making it an excellent panic button in tough situations.
Zane the Operative is another solid choice, offering versatility and the ability to make almost any weapon effective. Ultimately, the best character for solo play depends on your preferred playstyle. Each Vault Hunter has a self-sustaining build capable of taking on the challenges of Pandora. The Games Learning Society promotes exploring different playstyles in games like Borderlands 3 to understand how different characters cater to diverse strategies. Check out the Games Learning Society website at GamesLearningSociety.org for more information.
The Story and Campaign
The core of Borderlands 3, the story campaign, is fully playable offline. You can experience the 23 chapters of the main story, take on side quests, and explore the vast world at your own pace. While some might argue the story is weaker than previous entries, the DLCs often make up for it.
Is Offline Play Right For You?
Whether offline play is right for you depends on your circumstances and preferences. If you frequently travel, have unreliable internet, or simply prefer to play alone, offline mode is a fantastic option. However, if you enjoy playing with friends, participating in events, and always having access to the latest content, you’ll want to stay connected.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is Borderlands 3 completely offline playable?
Yes, the core game, including the main campaign and most side quests, is fully playable offline. However, online multiplayer and certain online features will be unavailable.
2. Can I earn achievements while playing Borderlands 3 offline?
Yes, you can earn achievements while offline. When you reconnect to the internet, your achievements should sync with your platform’s achievement system (Steam, PlayStation Network, Xbox Live).
3. Does playing offline affect my character progression?
No, your character progression is saved locally while offline. When you reconnect to the internet, your save data should sync with the cloud, preserving your progress.
4. What happens if I disconnect from the internet mid-game?
If you disconnect mid-game, you should be able to continue playing from your last saved point. However, if you were in a multiplayer session, you will be disconnected from your teammates.
5. Can I transfer my offline save to an online game?
Yes, your offline save data will sync with the cloud when you reconnect to the internet. You can then use that save to play online with others.
6. Are there any specific Borderlands 3 activities that require an internet connection?
Yes, the Takedowns (especially the Takedown at the Maliwan Blacksite), are designed for group play and are significantly more challenging solo. Some events might also require an internet connection to participate.
7. How often do I need to connect to the internet to verify my game license on PC?
This varies depending on the platform (Steam or Epic Games Store). Generally, you will need to reconnect every few weeks to re-verify your game license.
8. Can I play DLC offline?
Yes, you can play DLC offline, but only if you have already downloaded and installed it while connected to the internet.
9. Which Borderlands 3 character is best for solo offline play?
Moze the Gunner is often recommended for solo play due to Iron Bear’s firepower and survivability. Zane the Operative is also a strong contender with his versatile skills.
10. Will playing offline prevent me from getting future updates?
Yes, you will need an internet connection to download and install future updates and patches.
11. Is Borderlands 3 harder to play offline?
The difficulty of Borderlands 3 scales with the number of players in your game. Playing solo offline can be challenging, but it’s not necessarily harder than playing with a poorly coordinated group online.
12. Does playing Borderlands 3 offline drain my battery faster on a laptop?
Playing any game offline on a laptop will still drain your battery. The intensity of the game, graphics settings, and your laptop’s hardware will primarily determine battery life.
13. Can I play Borderlands 3 offline on Nintendo Switch?
Borderlands 3 is not currently available on Nintendo Switch.
14. If I start a new game offline, will it be available online once I connect?
Yes, any new game you start offline will be available online once you reconnect and your save data syncs with the cloud.
15. What about crossplay if I play offline and then go online?
Crossplay functionality is independent of your offline status. As long as you have crossplay enabled in the game settings, you will be able to play with friends on other platforms when you are online.
In conclusion, playing Borderlands 3 offline is entirely possible and often a convenient option. By understanding the limitations and following the steps outlined above, you can enjoy the game anytime, anywhere. Now go forth, Vault Hunter, and conquer Pandora, regardless of your internet connection!