Diving into Pandora: Which Borderlands Game Should You Start With?
The Borderlands universe is a chaotic, loot-filled, and hilarious ride, but with so many entries, deciding where to start can be overwhelming. The definitive answer? Start with Borderlands 2. While some purists will advocate for the original, Borderlands 2 offers a superior gameplay experience, a more compelling story with a truly memorable villain, and a smoother introduction to the series’ core mechanics. Think of it as the perfected recipe of what makes Borderlands… Borderlands.
Why Borderlands 2 is the Ideal Starting Point
Borderlands 2 refines nearly everything from the first game. The gunplay is tighter, the skill trees are more diverse, and the world feels more alive (or, well, as alive as a post-apocalyptic wasteland can be). The story, driven by the charismatic antagonist Handsome Jack, provides a compelling narrative hook that will keep you invested. While the original Borderlands laid the groundwork, Borderlands 2 built a skyscraper on it.
Jumping into Borderlands 2 first doesn’t mean you’ll be lost. The storyline is largely self-contained, with returning characters given sufficient introductions. You don’t need to know who Roland, Lilith, Brick, and Mordecai were before, though experiencing their arcs in the first game does add an extra layer of appreciation. After experiencing Borderlands 2 you can also explore research on learning with video games from the GamesLearningSociety.org.
Gameplay and Mechanics
Borderlands 2 significantly improves upon the original’s mechanics. The introduction of slag, a status effect that drastically increases damage taken, adds a strategic layer to combat. The variety of weapon types is also expanded, and the loot system feels more rewarding. Movement and overall feel is much smoother, improving the entire gameplay experience.
The Power of Handsome Jack
Handsome Jack isn’t just a villain; he’s a masterful antagonist. His witty dialogue, manipulative tactics, and genuine belief in his own twisted vision make him one of the most memorable villains in gaming history. Starting with Borderlands 2 allows you to fully appreciate his impact on the Borderlands universe before exploring his backstory in Borderlands: The Pre-Sequel!.
When to Play the Other Borderlands Games
After experiencing Borderlands 2, you’ll be in a much better position to decide which other games in the series you want to explore. Here’s a suggested order:
- Borderlands 2: The perfect starting point.
- Borderlands: The Pre-Sequel!: Provides context to Handsome Jack’s rise to power.
- Borderlands: The original, offering a look at the series’ roots.
- Tales from the Borderlands: A narrative adventure game set in the Borderlands universe, offering a different perspective.
- Borderlands 3: The latest installment, featuring refined gameplay and a massive world.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is it okay to start with Borderlands 3?
While you can start with Borderlands 3, you’ll be missing out on the character development and world-building established in the previous games. The story will still be understandable, but the emotional impact will be lessened. You might miss the thrill of seeing beloved characters return.
2. Do I need to play Borderlands 1 before Borderlands 2?
No, you don’t need to, but it does enrich the experience. Borderlands 2 reintroduces characters and plot points, so you won’t be completely lost. However, playing Borderlands 1 first provides valuable context and allows you to appreciate the evolution of the series.
3. Is Borderlands 1 outdated?
While Borderlands 1 might feel a bit dated compared to its sequels, it’s still a worthwhile experience. It offers a unique atmosphere and some cool features not found in later games. The DLC is also highly regarded.
4. Is Borderlands 2 beginner-friendly?
Yes, Borderlands 2 is relatively beginner-friendly. It’s a good introduction to RPG elements without being overwhelming like some other RPGs. The skill trees are varied, but not overly complex.
5. What is the longest Borderlands game?
Borderlands 3 is the longest game in the series in terms of main story length and overall content. It offers a massive world to explore and numerous side quests to complete.
6. Is Borderlands 3 better than Borderlands 2?
“Better” is subjective. Borderlands 3 features superior graphics, gunplay, and movement. However, Borderlands 2 is often praised for its stronger story and more memorable villain.
7. Is it okay to play Borderlands alone?
Yes, Borderlands is definitely enjoyable solo. The game’s difficulty scales based on the number of players, so solo play is balanced. Playing solo also allows you to fully immerse yourself in the story at your own pace.
8. Are Borderlands 1 and 2 connected?
Yes, Borderlands 2 makes references to Borderlands 1 and features returning characters. However, the storylines are largely independent, so you can play Borderlands 2 without feeling lost.
9. Why is Borderlands 3 so big in file size?
Borderlands 3’s large file size is primarily due to the high-definition textures used to create the game’s realistic world. There are thousands of detailed images that contribute to the game’s visual fidelity.
10. How many years pass between Borderlands 2 and Borderlands 3?
Borderlands 3 takes place seven years after the events of Borderlands 2 and Tales from the Borderlands.
11. Which Borderlands game has the best story?
Many fans consider Borderlands 2 to have the best story due to its compelling narrative, memorable characters, and, of course, Handsome Jack.
12. Is Borderlands worth playing in 2024?
Absolutely! The Borderlands series remains highly enjoyable thanks to its unique blend of humor, action, and loot-driven gameplay.
13. Which Borderlands game is the most replayable?
Borderlands 2 and Borderlands 3 are both highly replayable due to their diverse character classes, numerous builds, and the constant pursuit of better loot.
14. Should I skip Borderlands: The Pre-Sequel!?
While not as universally praised as Borderlands 2, Borderlands: The Pre-Sequel! provides valuable context to Handsome Jack’s story and introduces some interesting gameplay mechanics. It’s worth playing if you’re a fan of the series.
15. What character class should I choose in Borderlands 2?
The best class depends on your play style. Axton is a great choice for beginners, Maya offers excellent crowd control, Zero excels at sniping, Salvador can be incredibly powerful, Gaige is versatile, and Krieg is a high-risk, high-reward character.
The Verdict: Jump into Borderlands 2
Ultimately, Borderlands 2 strikes the perfect balance between accessibility, engaging storytelling, and refined gameplay. It’s the ideal starting point for anyone looking to dive into the chaotic and hilarious world of Pandora. After experiencing Borderlands 2, you’ll be well-equipped to explore the rest of the series and discover which entry resonates with you the most. Happy Vault Hunting! You can also explore educational research regarding video games at the Games Learning Society.