Is Handsome Jack in the First Borderlands? The Definitive Answer and More
The answer, plain and simple, is no. Handsome Jack is not in the original Borderlands game. While his presence looms large over the entire franchise, Jack doesn’t make his debut until Borderlands 2. The villain in the first game is Commandant Steele, a Siren leading the Crimson Lance who seeks the power within the Vault for the Atlas Corporation. So, if you’re diving into Borderlands 1 expecting to be greeted by Jack’s charmingly sociopathic banter, you’ll be meeting a different antagonist altogether.
Diving Deeper: Understanding Handsome Jack’s Absence
The original Borderlands set the stage for the world of Pandora, introducing the Vault Hunters and the quest for untold riches and power. However, Handsome Jack as a character didn’t exist in the initial design. Borderlands 2 introduced him as the President of the Hyperion Corporation, which dramatically changed the dynamic of Pandora and its inhabitants. His complex character, a blend of charisma, intelligence, and ruthless ambition, quickly made him one of gaming’s most iconic villains.
The Evolution of Evil: From Vault Hunter to Tyrant
Understanding Handsome Jack’s absence in Borderlands 1 also requires recognizing the developmental journey of the character. Initially, he was conceived as a fellow Vault Hunter, a frenemy of sorts. However, the developers at Gearbox Software later decided to transform him into the main antagonist for Borderlands 2, a decision that significantly shaped the narrative direction of the franchise.
FAQs: All Your Handsome Jack Questions Answered
Here are 15 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) to further clarify the Handsome Jack phenomenon and his role (or lack thereof) in the Borderlands universe.
Is Borderlands 1 included in the Handsome Collection?
No, the Handsome Collection includes only Borderlands 2 and Borderlands: The Pre-Sequel. Gearbox initially considered porting Borderlands 1 if the collection proved successful, but that didn’t end up happening.
How many games does Handsome Jack appear in?
Handsome Jack is a major character in three Borderlands titles: Borderlands 2 (main antagonist), Borderlands: The Pre-Sequel (main character), and Tales from the Borderlands (main character/one of two main antagonists).
Is Handsome Jack mentioned in Borderlands 3?
Yes, Handsome Jack’s legacy is explored in Borderlands 3, specifically in the “Childhood’s End” side quest. The quest delves into his backstory and features a portrait of him before his Hyperion days.
What’s the story behind Handsome Jack’s face and mask?
Handsome Jack wears a mask to conceal a severe scar he received from Lilith, one of the original Vault Hunters. Lilith disfigured him by destroying an artifact that Jack was attempting to use. He also has heterochromia, giving him different colored eyes.
What drove Handsome Jack to become evil?
Handsome Jack’s descent into villainy is complex. Betrayal and manipulation, particularly the events in Borderlands: The Pre-Sequel, play a significant role in shaping his worldview and fueling his oppressive actions. He believes himself to be a hero, even as he commits atrocities.
Who is the main villain in Borderlands 1?
The primary antagonist in Borderlands 1 is Commandant Steele, the leader of the Crimson Lance. She serves the Atlas Corporation and seeks to exploit the power of the Vault.
Is Rhys from Tales from the Borderlands, Handsome Jack?
This is a complicated question. In Tales from the Borderlands, Rhys is implanted with a Hyperion cybernetic eye that contains the AI of Handsome Jack. He doesn’t become Handsome Jack outright, but Jack’s personality influences him.
What exactly did Lilith do to Handsome Jack?
Lilith destroyed an Eridian artifact that Jack had obtained from the Vault on Elpis, severely disfiguring him. This event is a turning point in Jack’s character development and fuels his hatred for Lilith and the Vault Hunters.
Is Handsome Jack a true villain, or is he misunderstood?
While Handsome Jack possesses charisma and sometimes justifies his actions as being for the greater good, he is undoubtedly a villain. He’s responsible for widespread oppression and countless deaths, making him a morally reprehensible character.
Will Handsome Jack return in Borderlands 4?
It’s unlikely Handsome Jack will return in a significant capacity in Borderlands 4, given his fate in previous games. However, his influence on the Borderlands universe is undeniable, and he might be referenced or alluded to in some way.
Why is Handsome Jack such a popular villain?
Handsome Jack’s popularity stems from his complex character, his witty dialogue, and his compelling backstory. He’s not just a one-dimensional villain; he has motivations and vulnerabilities that make him relatable, even as he commits terrible acts.
In what order should I play the Borderlands games?
A recommended play order is: Borderlands (Enhanced Edition), Borderlands 2, Borderlands: The Pre-Sequel, Tales from the Borderlands, Commander Lilith and the Fight for Sanctuary, Borderlands 3, and New Tales from the Borderlands.
How did Handsome Jack get the scar that he covers with his mask?
As previously mentioned, Handsome Jack’s scar is a result of Lilith destroying an artifact he was trying to use. The incident occurred prior to the events of Borderlands 2.
What happened to Handsome Jack at the end of Tales from the Borderlands?
At the end of Tales from the Borderlands, Rhys either destroys Jack’s AI by crushing the piece of his robotic eye containing him or simply leaves him trapped within it. The outcome depends on player choice.
Who is Handsome Jack’s daughter?
Handsome Jack’s daughter is Angel, a Siren who plays a crucial role in Borderlands 2. She is used by Jack to charge the Vault Key, furthering his plans to control Pandora.
The Enduring Legacy of Handsome Jack
Despite his absence from Borderlands 1, Handsome Jack has become a cornerstone of the Borderlands franchise. His complex character, witty dialogue, and impactful actions continue to resonate with players. Whether you love him or hate him, there’s no denying his influence on the world of Pandora. If you’re interested in learning more about the impact of gaming on society, consider visiting the Games Learning Society at GamesLearningSociety.org to explore the intersection of games, learning, and culture.