Is There Romance in Borderlands? A Deep Dive into Love and Relationships on Pandora

Yes, there is romance in Borderlands, though its portrayal is often unconventional, darkly comedic, and interwoven with the series’ signature violence and mayhem. While not always the central focus, romantic relationships and undertones are present throughout the various Borderlands games, taking many forms from genuine affection to exploitative manipulation.

Romance in Borderlands: More Than Just Gunplay

The Borderlands universe, a chaotic and often brutal place, might seem an unlikely setting for romance. Yet, Gearbox Software has consistently sprinkled elements of love, lust, and complicated relationships throughout the franchise. These relationships, whether explicitly stated or subtly implied, add depth to the characters and enrich the narrative experience. It’s important to note that the portrayal of romance isn’t always sugar-coated. Instead, it’s often raw, flawed, and reflective of the harsh realities of life on Pandora and beyond.

Key Examples of Romance and Relationships

• Rhys and Sasha (Tales from the Borderlands): This relationship is a prime example of a player-driven romance. In Tales from the Borderlands, players guide Rhys’s choices, which can lead to a budding romance with Sasha. The player has agency, choosing to pursue the relationship or focus on other aspects of the story. This interactivity makes it a particularly engaging aspect of the game.

• Roland and Lilith: Their relationship is a cornerstone of the early Borderlands narrative. Though their romance had ended by the time the first game begins, their history and lingering connection are evident. The circumstances surrounding their break-up, with Roland prioritizing the Crimson Raiders, highlight the sacrifices and complexities of relationships in a world constantly threatened by chaos.

• Moxxi’s Many Lovers: Mad Moxxi is perhaps the most prolific romantic figure in the Borderlands universe. Her history is filled with a colorful cast of ex-lovers and husbands, including Mordecai, Handsome Jack, and others. These past relationships often fuel her present actions and create interesting dynamics with other characters. They exemplify her independent and often manipulative approach to love and relationships.

• Athena and Janey Springs: This same-sex relationship is a significant example of LGBTQ+ representation in the Borderlands universe. The connection between Athena and Janey Springs is depicted as genuine and supportive, adding a layer of inclusivity to the narrative.

• Tyreen and Troy Calypso: While not a conventional romance, the twisted relationship between the Calypso Twins in Borderlands 3 involves an undeniable level of co-dependency and manipulation. Tyreen’s frustration stemming from her inability to “get laid properly” suggests a complex dynamic involving sexual frustration and power imbalances.

The Darker Side of Romance

Not all relationships in Borderlands are positive or healthy. The game often delves into themes of manipulation, exploitation, and abuse within the context of romantic entanglements.

• Handsome Jack’s Relationship with Moxxi: This is a prime example of a toxic relationship built on power and control. Handsome Jack’s manipulative nature and Moxxi’s resilience create a compelling, albeit disturbing, dynamic.

• The Calypso Twins: Their co-dependent bond often borders on the unhealthy, with Tyreen wielding considerable power over Troy. The game often explores themes of familial obligations that can be detrimental to personal well-being.

These darker aspects of romance contribute to the game’s mature themes and provide a more nuanced perspective on relationships in a lawless environment. The inclusion of these elements reinforces the GamesLearningSociety.org’s mission to research the educational and social impact of games. You can learn more about their work at the Games Learning Society website.

The Future of Romance in Borderlands

As the Borderlands franchise evolves, it’s likely that romance will continue to play a role in character development and storytelling. Whether through player choice, established relationships, or the introduction of new romantic interests, these elements contribute to the richness and complexity of the Borderlands universe. The developers have shown a willingness to explore diverse relationships and themes, suggesting that future installments will continue to offer a diverse range of romantic narratives.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Romance in Borderlands

1. Are there explicit sex scenes in Borderlands?

No, the Borderlands games do not feature explicit sex scenes. Romance is usually implied or developed through dialogue and character interactions. The franchise usually dances around more mature themes rather than being direct.

2. Is Zane pansexual in Borderlands?

Yes, Zane Flynt is confirmed as pansexual.

3. Do Rhys and Sasha get together?

In Tales from the Borderlands, the player’s choices determine whether Rhys and Sasha end up together. Rhys can choose to admit his feelings for Sasha, with Fiona’s blessing or choose to pursue another relationship.

4. Is Fiona in Borderlands 3?

Fiona is mentioned but does not appear directly in Borderlands 3. She disappeared into a Vault with Rhys.

5. Is Roland Lilith’s boyfriend?

Roland and Lilith were in a relationship that ended before the events of the first Borderlands game.

6. Who does Moxxi love?

Moxxi has had many lovers and spouses, including Mordecai, Handsome Jack, Lucky Zaford, Motor Momma, and Timothy Lawrence.

7. Who is Athena’s girlfriend in Borderlands?

Athena’s girlfriend is Janey Springs, who she meets on Elpis in Borderlands: The Pre-Sequel.

8. What happens if you tell Rhys you like his mustache?

If you compliment Rhys’s mustache, he keeps it, and citizens of Sanctuary will occasionally make comments about it.

9. Does Rhys become evil?

Depending on player choices in Tales from the Borderlands, Rhys can make decisions that lead to him being perceived as selfish or villainous, affecting his relationships with other characters.

10. Is there a confirmed canon love interest for Rhys in the Borderlands universe?

While player choices in Tales from the Borderlands can lead to a relationship with Sasha, there isn’t a universally confirmed canon love interest for Rhys across all Borderlands games.

11. How many kids does Moxxi have?

Moxxi is confirmed to have at least three children: Scooter, Ellie, and another older sister of Scooter also named Scooter, whose whereabouts are unknown.

12. Who did Moxxi have kids with?

Moxxi had Scooter and Ellie with Jimbo Hodunk. The father of her other children is unknown.

13. Is romance a major focus of the Borderlands series?

No, while romance exists within the Borderlands universe, it is not the primary focus. The main emphasis is on action, humor, and the loot-driven gameplay.

14. Do any characters get married in the Borderlands games?

Moxxi has multiple marriages that are referenced, but in terms of the playable characters there is no confirmation of current marriages.

15. Is there a romance between any of the original Vault Hunters from Borderlands 1?

While Roland and Lilith had a past relationship that ended before the events of the first game, there are no other confirmed romantic relationships between the original Vault Hunters.

In conclusion, romance in Borderlands exists but is often portrayed in a dark and unconventional manner. While it might not be the central theme, it provides depth to the characters and enriches the overall narrative. From budding relationships to toxic entanglements, the Borderlands universe offers a complex and engaging perspective on love and relationships in a chaotic world.