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

Quickly earning a reputation as the leading looter shooter franchise, Borderlands has become a recognizable name in gaming. From its distinctive cel-shaded art style to its iconic masked psycho, this foul-mouthed, humorous sci-fi universe is a staple of modern gaming culture. The franchise's success extends beyond video games, encompassing comics, novels, and even a tabletop game.

This month marks a significant milestone: the Borderlands movie, directed by Eli Roth (Hostel, Thanksgiving), brings Pandora and its vault-obsessed inhabitants to the big screen, introducing the franchise to a new audience. While critical reception was mixed, the film's release is a major achievement for the series.

With Borderlands 4 confirmed for release later this year, many new and returning fans will likely want to revisit the series' origins. This timeline provides a comprehensive overview of the Borderlands games, helping you understand the overarching narrative.

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How to play in chronological order How to play by release date

How Many Borderlands Games Are There?

There are currently seven canon Borderlands games and spin-offs, plus two non-canon titles: Borderlands: Vault Hunter Pinball and Borderlands Legends.

Where's the Best Place to Start?

While Borderlands 1 is the logical starting point, any of the three main games offer a good introduction if story isn't your primary concern. The trilogy shares similar gameplay, but experiencing the overarching narrative from the beginning is recommended, especially after watching the movie.

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Every Canon Borderlands Game in Chronological Order

(Mild spoilers ahead)

1. Borderlands (2009)

The original Borderlands (2009) introduces Lilith, Brick, Roland, and Mordecai, four Vault Hunters searching for the legendary Vault on Pandora. Their quest plunges them into conflict with the Crimson Lance, hostile wildlife, and countless bandits. The game's success launched the looter shooter genre, defined by its addictive gameplay loop of combat, loot acquisition, and character progression. Four post-release expansions further enriched the experience.

2. Borderlands: The Pre-Sequel (2014)

Developed by 2K Australia, Borderlands: The Pre-Sequel bridges the gap between the first two games. It follows Athena, Wilhelm, Nisha, and Claptrap as they hunt a Vault on Elpis, Pandora's moon. Featuring Handsome Jack prominently, this game reveals his descent into villainy, enriching the Borderlands 2 narrative. Several expansions added post-launch content.

3. Borderlands 2 (2012)

Borderlands 2 (2012) returns to Pandora with a new team of Vault Hunters facing off against the tyrannical Handsome Jack. The game expands upon the original's formula with more quests, classes, and, of course, guns. Considered by many as the best in the series, it features a compelling story, memorable combat, and the franchise's signature humor. Extensive post-release support added significant content.

4. Tales From The Borderlands (2014-2015)

A Telltale Games episodic adventure, Tales From The Borderlands, focuses on Rhys, a Hyperion employee, and Fiona, a con artist, as they unexpectedly embark on a Vault-hunting adventure. This story-driven experience features branching narratives and impactful choices, establishing itself as a crucial part of the Borderlands canon.

5. Tiny Tina's Wonderlands (2022)

Expanding on the Borderlands 2 DLC, Tiny Tina's Assault on Dragon Keep, Tiny Tina's Wonderlands immerses players in a fantasy setting within the Bunkers & Badasses tabletop game. While the setting changes, the core Borderlands gameplay remains, offering a fresh take on the familiar formula with new classes, spells, and an overworld to explore. Four DLC expansions add further content.

6. Borderlands 3 (2019)

Borderlands 3 (2019) introduces a new cast of Vault Hunters tasked with stopping the villainous siren twins, Troy and Tyreen. This installment expands the setting beyond Pandora, sending players across multiple planets. The game features a wealth of content, including extensive DLC campaigns.

7. New Tales From The Borderlands (2022)

New Tales From The Borderlands features a new set of protagonists—Anu, Octavio, and Fran—who stumble upon a powerful artifact, leading them into conflict with Tediore Corporation. This narrative-focused adventure offers branching choices and impactful decisions that shape the story.

Every Borderlands Game 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)

What's Next For Borderlands?

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