What are the Enemy Levels in Borderlands?
The enemy levels in the Borderlands series are not static; they vary depending on the game, the playthrough, and certain specific conditions. Unlike some RPGs where enemies scale directly with the player’s level at all times, Borderlands uses a more nuanced approach. In general, enemy levels are tied to the game’s progression and story, with some scaling mechanics introduced later in playthroughs or in specific DLC content. This article aims to clarify how enemy levels function in each mainline Borderlands game, along with answers to frequently asked questions.
Borderlands 1: A Predetermined World
In the original Borderlands, enemy levels are primarily pre-determined. This means that the enemies you encounter in specific areas and during certain missions are set to a specific level range. During your first playthrough, enemies do not scale to your level. You will find that early areas start with low-level enemies, with enemy levels generally increasing as you progress.
Playthrough 2 and Scaling
The crucial shift happens in Playthrough 2. After you complete the main story of the first playthrough, you can choose to play through the game again in Playthrough 2. Once the credits roll in Playthrough 2, enemy scaling is activated. This scaling, often referred to as “2.5”, doesn’t introduce new quests or content. Instead, it dynamically adjusts the enemy levels to match your own. This is a permanent change, and the enemies will scale to your current level regardless of the quests you are undertaking.
DLC Scaling
The DLC for Borderlands 1 also introduces different scaling mechanics. Zombie Island is notable for its enemies scaling to your level in both playthroughs. Similarly, The Underdome also scales its enemies, despite what the mission log might indicate.
Borderlands 2: A Combination of Fixed and Scaled
In Borderlands 2, the approach to enemy levels is a bit more complex. Initially, enemies start at a lower level in the first area and gradually scale up to around level 52 by the time you reach the Warrior fight. This represents a more controlled progression than the original game. However, after finishing the main questline on True Vault Hunter Mode (TVHM), all enemies jump to around level 49-50. They do not scale to your level in the main part of the game or the first playthrough.
True Vault Hunter Mode and Scaling
True Vault Hunter Mode (TVHM) introduces the first instance of enemy level scaling in Borderlands 2. After beating the final boss in Normal Mode, starting TVHM increases the difficulty and, crucially, makes the enemies scale to level 50, roughly. This introduces a more challenging experience that encourages further character progression.
Ultimate Vault Hunter Mode (UVHM) and Beyond
The Ultimate Vault Hunter Mode (UVHM) is unlocked through a paid DLC and further complicates matters. Here, enemies will scale to your level, presenting a constantly adaptive challenge. Also, in UVHM, enemies can spawn over your level, making the game significantly more difficult. In addition, the Overpower Levels (OP levels) introduced with the Digistruct Peak DLC allow players to push their gear beyond the normal level cap and further scale up the enemy difficulty.
Max Enemy Level and Iron God
The maximum level an enemy can reach in Borderlands 2, under normal conditions, is 72 plus 8 Overpower levels (OP8). However, raid bosses are often set 2 levels above the current difficulty, reaching 82 on OP8. However, a unique enemy exists in the Tiny Tina DLC known as the Iron Golem. This enemy can be leveled up to become the Iron God, surpassing even the highest-level raid boss in raw power.
Borderlands 3: Consistent Scaling
Borderlands 3 takes a simpler approach to enemy levels. Level scaling is a core mechanic of Borderlands 3. This means that enemy levels dynamically adjust to match the player character’s level. This creates a consistent level of challenge whether you’re early in the game or tackling late-game content. If your character is level 20, the enemies you encounter will generally also be around level 20.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the highest level cap in Borderlands 2?
The highest level cap in Borderlands 2 is Level 72, with an additional 8 Overpower levels (OP levels) which increases the difficulty further without increasing your character’s level.
2. Does Borderlands 1 have a level cap?
Yes, the original Borderlands has multiple level caps. The base game cap was increased to 58 in patch 1.4.1. The Secret Armory of General Knoxx DLC further increased it to 69.
3. What is the difference between Borderlands GOTY and Enhanced?
Borderlands Game of the Year Edition (GOTY) and the Enhanced edition contain the same content, with Enhanced featuring upgraded graphics, character customization, new weapons, and bug fixes. You need the Enhanced edition to enjoy all the DLC.
4. Does Borderlands 1 have badass ranks?
No, Borderlands 1 does not have a traditional badass rank system. You receive one extra skill point after completing the Underdome DLC.
5. What is “2.5” in Borderlands 1?
“2.5” refers to the enemy scaling that becomes active after completing Playthrough 2 in Borderlands 1. At this point, enemies scale to match your level. There are no additional quests or content added in “2.5”.
6. Is 72 the max level in Borderlands 3?
Yes, Level 72 is currently the maximum level cap in Borderlands 3. This is the same level cap as in Borderlands 2.
7. What is power leveling?
Power leveling is a strategy that involves rapidly increasing a character’s level using specific methods, often exploiting game mechanics, to accelerate character progression and bypass the regular gameplay experience, such as rapidly defeating bosses on a high difficulty or using exploits that increase XP gain significantly.
8. Who is the main enemy in Borderlands 1?
The main antagonist of Borderlands 1 is Commandant Steele, the leader of the Crimson Lance.
9. Who is the bad guy in Borderlands 2?
The primary antagonist of Borderlands 2 is Handsome Jack, the President of the Hyperion Corporation.
10. Can you power level in Borderlands?
Yes, methods exist for power leveling in all Borderlands games, often involving exploiting boss fights, utilizing certain gear, and exploiting bugs for rapidly gaining XP.
11. How many hours does it take to 100% Borderlands?
A 100% completion of Borderlands can take around 62.5 hours. This includes completing all side quests, challenges, and finding all collectibles.
12. Does Borderlands have difficulty levels?
The original Borderlands does not have selectable difficulty levels. Its difficulty is largely controlled by the player’s level and gear. Borderlands 2 and 3 include difficulty settings in the form of Playthroughs, Mayhem levels, and True Vault Hunter modes.
13. What order should you play the Borderlands games?
The chronological order is generally: Borderlands, Borderlands: The Pre-Sequel!, Borderlands 2, Tales from the Borderlands, and Borderlands 3.
14. What is level scaling?
Level scaling is a mechanic that adjusts the difficulty of enemies to match the player’s character level. This can be a universal mechanic, as in Borderlands 3, or limited to specific playthroughs, as seen in Borderlands 1 and 2.
15. Will there be a Borderlands 4?
Yes, Borderlands 4 is in development. An early release may come before the expected 2026 launch window.
Understanding how enemy levels work in Borderlands is crucial for planning your character’s progression and choosing your challenges. Each game offers unique mechanics, creating a varied and engaging experience. Armed with this knowledge, you’ll be better prepared to take on the dangers of Pandora and beyond.