should you play borderlands in order

HaC 2025

3 min read 19-03-2025

Meta Description: Wondering if you need to play Borderlands games in order? This comprehensive guide explores the storylines, characters, and overall experience of each game, helping you decide if chronological play is necessary for enjoyment. Discover whether skipping around affects your understanding and enjoyment of the Borderlands universe! (158 characters)

Playing the Borderlands series can be an absolute blast, but the question many newcomers ask is: does the order matter? Should you play Borderlands 1, then 2, then the Pre-Sequel, and so on? The short answer is: it depends. While each game has its own distinct story, there are overarching narratives and recurring characters that link them together. This guide will explore the pros and cons of playing Borderlands chronologically and help you decide what's best for your gaming experience.

The Borderlands Storyline: A Quick Overview

The Borderlands series revolves around Pandora, a desolate planet rumored to hold an alien vault containing powerful technology. Each game introduces new characters, locations, and storylines, while retaining some familiar faces and plot threads. The overall narrative explores themes of greed, exploration, and the consequences of unchecked power.

Borderlands 1: The Foundation

Borderlands 1 sets the stage. It introduces Pandora, the Vault Hunters, and the core gameplay loop that defines the series. Playing Borderlands 1 first gives you a foundational understanding of the world, characters, and overall tone. It establishes the key players and conflicts that influence later installments.

Borderlands 2: Building Upon the Legacy

Borderlands 2 builds directly upon the events of the first game. It introduces new Vault Hunters, a compelling antagonist in Handsome Jack, and expands the world of Pandora significantly. Understanding Borderlands 1 enhances the experience in Borderlands 2 because of the character development and plot threads that continue.

Borderlands: The Pre-Sequel: A Bridge Between Eras

The Pre-Sequel acts as a bridge between Borderlands 2 and the original game. It takes place chronologically before Borderlands 2, offering insights into Handsome Jack's rise to power and introducing new characters and storylines that help explain future events.

Borderlands 3: The Next Chapter

Borderlands 3 expands the universe beyond Pandora, introducing new planets and challenges. While not strictly requiring prior knowledge, playing the previous games gives a much richer appreciation for the recurring characters and overarching story. Understanding the history of the Crimson Raiders and Handsome Jack significantly enhances the emotional impact of Borderlands 3.

Should You Play Borderlands in Order? The Arguments

Arguments for Playing in Release Order:

Character Development: The overarching story sees familiar characters evolve throughout the series. Playing in order allows you to fully appreciate their arcs and relationships.
Plot Coherence: Many plot points and characters from earlier games are referenced and expanded upon in later installments. Playing chronologically ensures a smoother and more satisfying understanding of the overall narrative.
Enhanced Emotional Impact: Understanding the history of the characters allows for a stronger emotional connection to the events of the later games. This is especially true concerning Handsome Jack and the Crimson Raiders.

Arguments Against Playing in Release Order:

Game Mechanics: The gameplay mechanics evolve over the series. Some players may prefer the improved mechanics of the later games, potentially finding the earlier entries less enjoyable.
Time Commitment: The entire series is extensive. Starting with Borderlands 1 requires a significant time investment. Many players prefer to start with a more modern entry and then explore earlier games if they enjoy the series.
Standalone Stories: Each game is largely self-contained. While knowledge of previous games adds layers, they are still enjoyable on their own merits.

The Verdict: It Depends on Your Priorities

Ultimately, the decision of whether to play Borderlands in order comes down to your priorities. If you prioritize a deep, interconnected narrative and want to fully appreciate the character development, then playing chronologically is strongly recommended. However, if you value newer gameplay mechanics or have limited time, jumping into a more modern installment might be a better starting point.

FAQs: Common Questions About Borderlands Order

Q: Can I skip Borderlands: The Pre-Sequel?

A: While not essential, The Pre-Sequel provides valuable context for Borderlands 2 and introduces elements important to Borderlands 3. Skipping it won't completely break your understanding, but it will miss out on some backstory and character development.

Q: Which Borderlands game should I start with?

A: If you prioritize story and character development, start with Borderlands 1. If you're more interested in newer gameplay and don't mind spoilers, you could begin with Borderlands 2 or Borderlands 3.

Q: Are there any other Borderlands games?

A: Yes, there are also spin-off titles like Borderlands: Tiny Tina's Assault on Dragon Keep and Tales from the Borderlands (a Telltale Games title), but these are less essential to the main storyline.

No matter which order you choose, the Borderlands series offers hours of fun, loot-filled adventures. Enjoy the ride!