How to Play the Borderlands Games (and Spin-Offs) in Timeline Order

The Borderlands franchise, a celebrated looter-shooter, has exploded in popularity since its debut, becoming a recognizable name in gaming. Its distinctive cel-shaded art style and iconic Psycho villain have cemented its place in modern video game culture. The franchise's success extends beyond gaming, encompassing comics, novels, and even a tabletop game.

This year marks a significant milestone: the release of the Borderlands movie, directed by Eli Roth (Hostel, Thanksgiving). While critical reception was mixed, the film represents a major step for the franchise.

With Borderlands 4 slated for release in 2025, many existing and new fans will likely want to revisit the series. This timeline provides a guide to experiencing the Borderlands universe:

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Chronological Play OrderRelease Date Order

Will you see the Borderlands movie?

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How Many Borderlands Games Exist?

Seven main Borderlands games and spin-offs are canon, plus two smaller non-canon titles: Borderlands: Vault Hunter Pinball and Borderlands Legends.

Where to Begin?

While Borderlands 1 is the logical starting point, any of the three main games offer a solid introduction, especially if story isn't the primary focus. The trilogy shares similar gameplay, and all are available on modern platforms. However, experiencing the overarching narrative from the beginning is recommended for a complete understanding.

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Canon Borderlands Games in Chronological Order:

(Note: Minor spoilers ahead)

1. Borderlands (2009)

The original Borderlands introduced Lilith, Brick, Roland, and Mordecai, Vault Hunters searching for a legendary Vault on Pandora. Their quest becomes a chaotic battle against the Crimson Lance militia, hostile wildlife, and bandits. The game's success launched the looter-shooter genre. Post-release expansions added significant content.

2. Borderlands: The Pre-Sequel (2014)

Set between the first two main games, The Pre-Sequel follows Athena, Wilhelm, Nisha, and Claptrap on a mission to Elpis, Pandora's moon. It expands on Handsome Jack's backstory, showing his descent into villainy. Expansions added new characters and gameplay.

3. Borderlands 2 (2012)

Borderlands 2 returns to Pandora with new Vault Hunters: Maya, Axton, Salvador, and Zer0. They confront Handsome Jack, the tyrannical ruler of Pandora. The game expanded on the original's formula with more quests, characters, and weaponry. Post-release content significantly increased playtime.

4. Tales From The Borderlands (2014-2015)

A Telltale Games episodic adventure, Tales From The Borderlands features Rhys and Fiona, unlikely partners who stumble into a Vault-related adventure. The narrative is driven by player choices and is considered canon.

5. Tiny Tina's Wonderlands (2022)

A fantasy-themed spin-off based on the Borderlands 2 DLC, Tiny Tina's Assault on Dragon Keep. While the setting changes, the core gameplay remains true to the Borderlands formula. Multiple expansions were released.

6. Borderlands 3 (2019)

Borderlands 3 introduces Amara, FL4K, Zane, and Moze, who battle the Calypso Twins across multiple planets. The game features returning characters and a large amount of post-release content.

7. New Tales From The Borderlands (2022)

A sequel to Tales From The Borderlands, featuring new protagonists: Anu, Octavio, and Fran. The story focuses on their encounter with a powerful artifact and their confrontation with Tediore Corporation.

Borderlands Games in Release Order:

Borderlands (2009) Borderlands Legends (2012) Borderlands 2 (2012) Borderlands: The Pre-Sequel (2014) Tales From The Borderlands (2014-2015) Borderlands 3 (2019) Tiny Tina's Wonderlands (2022) New Tales From The Borderlands (2022) Borderlands: Vault Hunter Pinball (2023) Borderlands 4 (2025)

The Future of Borderlands:

Borderlands 4, set for release on September 23, 2025, is the next major installment. Take-Two's acquisition of Gearbox suggests a bright future for the franchise, with potential for more frequent releases.