Borderlands 3: The Vault Hunters We Never Got – And What’s Next
The burning question on every Vault Hunter’s mind – will we ever get more playable characters in Borderlands 3? The answer, in short, is no. Gearbox has officially moved on from significant content updates for Borderlands 3, focusing its efforts on other projects like Tiny Tina’s Wonderlands and the highly anticipated (and leaked) Borderlands 4. While this may disappoint some fans, understanding the landscape of Borderlands 3’s development and future prospects can offer solace and excitement for what’s to come.
The Reality of Borderlands 3’s Character Development
Borderlands 3 launched with four distinct Vault Hunters: Amara, FL4K, Moze, and Zane. Each offered unique skill trees and playstyles, catering to a wide variety of preferences. However, unlike Borderlands 2, which introduced Krieg the Psycho and Gaige the Mechromancer as DLC characters, Borderlands 3 never expanded its roster in this way.
Why No Additional Vault Hunters?
Several factors likely contributed to this decision:
- Development Costs: Creating a completely new Vault Hunter is a significant undertaking. It involves designing a unique skill tree, animations, voice acting, and ensuring the character is balanced within the game. This requires considerable time, resources, and testing.
- Focus on Campaign DLC: Gearbox prioritized expanding the game’s story and world through four major campaign DLCs (Moxxi’s Heist of the Handsome Jackpot, Guns, Love, and Tentacles, Bounty of Blood, and Psycho Krieg and the Fantastic Fustercluck). These DLCs added substantial content, extending the lifespan of the game without introducing new characters.
- Free Content Updates: Instead of paid characters, Gearbox opted for free updates that added new features, such as the fourth skill trees for each existing Vault Hunter. These skill trees provided significant gameplay changes and allowed players to experiment with new builds and strategies without having to purchase a new character.
- Shift to Other Projects: As time went on, Gearbox began to shift its focus to other projects, including Tiny Tina’s Wonderlands, a spin-off title with its own unique character creation system, and, potentially, Borderlands 4. Investing in a new character for Borderlands 3 would have diverted resources from these new ventures.
The Legacy of the Existing Vault Hunters
While we never got DLC characters, the four original Vault Hunters of Borderlands 3 have left a lasting impact. Their diverse abilities and playstyles have provided countless hours of entertainment for players worldwide. From Moze’s Iron Bear mech to Zane’s ability to wield two action skills simultaneously, each character offers a unique and compelling experience. The addition of fourth skill trees further expanded their potential, ensuring that they remain relevant and enjoyable even after hundreds of hours of playtime.
The Future of Borderlands
While Borderlands 3 is no longer receiving major content updates, the future of the franchise looks bright. Tiny Tina’s Wonderlands offered a fresh take on the Borderlands formula, incorporating fantasy elements and character customization. The rumored development of Borderlands 4 suggests that Gearbox is committed to continuing the series’ legacy.
What can we expect from future Borderlands games? Perhaps we will see a return to the model of adding DLC characters, or maybe Gearbox will continue to explore new ways to expand the gameplay experience. Regardless, one thing is certain: the Borderlands universe is full of potential, and we can expect to see many more exciting adventures in the years to come. Maybe research on the effects of this game can be seen in the Games Learning Society website.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Borderlands 3 Characters and DLC
1. Will Borderlands 3 ever get a fifth Vault Hunter?
No. Gearbox has officially stated that they are no longer developing new Vault Hunters for Borderlands 3.
2. What was the last major update for Borderlands 3?
The fourth skill tree update for each Vault Hunter was the last major update that significantly changed the gameplay experience.
3. What is the maximum level in Borderlands 3?
The maximum level in Borderlands 3 is level 72.
4. How many campaign DLCs are there for Borderlands 3?
There are four campaign DLCs: Moxxi’s Heist of the Handsome Jackpot, Guns, Love, and Tentacles: The Marriage of Wainwright & Hammerlock, Bounty of Blood, and Psycho Krieg and the Fantastic Fustercluck.
5. Which Vault Hunter is considered the best for solo play in Borderlands 3?
Moze is often considered one of the best Vault Hunters for solo play due to her survivability and the power of Iron Bear/Iron Cub.
6. What is Mayhem Mode in Borderlands 3?
Mayhem Mode is a system that allows players to increase the difficulty of the game after completing the main story, offering increased experience points and better loot.
7. What is the highest weapon rarity in Borderlands 3?
The highest weapon rarity is Legendary (Orange).
8. How long does it take to 100% complete Borderlands 3?
It takes approximately 75.5 hours to achieve 100% completion in Borderlands 3.
9. What are some of the most overpowered builds in Borderlands 3?
Some popular overpowered builds include Iron Maiden Moze, Khaos Queen Amara, and Chain Zane.
10. Are the level cap increases free in Borderlands 3?
Yes, level cap increases are free updates that require the latest patch.
11. What is the fourth weapon slot and how do I unlock it?
The fourth weapon slot allows you to carry four weapons. It is unlocked automatically after completing all the main missions on Promethea.
12. Is Zane able to use grenades in Borderlands 3?
Zane can use grenades, but his action skills allow him to sacrifice grenade use for other benefits, such as equipping two action skills simultaneously.
13. Which Borderlands 3 DLC is considered the best?
Opinions vary, but Bounty of Blood is often ranked among the best Borderlands 3 DLCs.
14. How many years after Borderlands 2 does Borderlands 3 take place?
Borderlands 3 takes place approximately seven years after the events of Borderlands 2.
15. Will there be a Borderlands 4?
While not officially announced, leaks suggest that Borderlands 4 is in development, with potential hints at an upcoming release date.