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

Quickly gaining recognition as a leading looter shooter franchise since its debut, Borderlands has become a gaming icon. Its distinctive cel-shaded art style and the memorable Psycho bandit mask have cemented its place in modern video game culture. The franchise's influence extends beyond gaming, 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-hunting inhabitants to the big screen, introducing the franchise to a new audience. While critical reception may have been mixed, the film's release is a major achievement for the series.

With Borderlands 4 confirmed for release later this year, many existing and new fans are likely eager to revisit the series' origins. To help, we've compiled a timeline to guide you through the Borderlands saga.

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

How Many Borderlands Games Are There?

Currently, there are 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 solid introduction if story continuity isn't a primary concern. All three are readily available on modern platforms. However, for a complete understanding of the overarching narrative, especially after seeing the movie, beginning with the first game is recommended.

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Every Canon Borderlands Game in Chronological Order

(Mild spoilers ahead for characters, settings, and story elements.)

1. Borderlands (2009)

The original Borderlands, released in 2009, introduces Lilith, Brick, Roland, and Mordecai – four Vault Hunters embarking on a quest for the legendary Vault on Pandora. Their treasure hunt quickly descends into chaos, pitting them against the Crimson Lance militia, hostile wildlife, and countless bandits. The game's addictive gameplay loop of combat, loot acquisition, and character progression launched the looter shooter genre to new heights. Four post-release expansions further enriched the experience.

2. Borderlands: The Pre-Sequel (2014)

Developed by 2K Australia with Gearbox Software, Borderlands: The Pre-Sequel chronologically bridges the gap between the first two main games. It follows Athena, Wilhelm, Nisha, and Claptrap as they hunt a Vault on Elpis, Pandora's moon. Featuring Handsome Jack prominently, the game reveals his origins and descent into villainy, enriching the narrative of Borderlands 2. Post-release expansions added new content and characters.

3. Borderlands 2 (2012)

Borderlands 2 (2012) returns to Pandora with a new team of Vault Hunters: Maya, Axton, Salvador, and Zer0. Their quest to find a Vault puts them at odds with the tyrannical Handsome Jack. The game expands on the original's formula with more quests, character classes, and, of course, an even larger arsenal of weapons. Considered by many as the best in the series, it also received extensive post-release support.

4. Tales From The Borderlands (2014 - 2015)

A Telltale Games episodic adventure, Tales From The Borderlands offers a story-driven experience on Pandora. Focusing on Rhys, a Hyperion employee, and Fiona, a con artist, the narrative unfolds through choices that impact the story's direction. The game's characters and events have since become integrated into the main Borderlands canon.

5. Tiny Tina's Wonderlands (2022)

A fantasy-themed spin-off, Tiny Tina's Wonderlands expands on the Borderlands 2 DLC, "Tiny Tina's Assault on Dragon Keep." While the setting shifts to a fantasy kingdom, the core gameplay loop remains intact, featuring a vast array of weapons, character classes, and enemies. Four expansions add further depth to the experience.

6. Borderlands 3 (2019)

Borderlands 3 (2019) introduces Amara, FL4K, Zane, and Moze as they confront the siren twins, Troy and Tyreen. For the first time, the game takes players beyond Pandora, exploring multiple planets. The game features a large cast of returning characters and delivers the signature chaotic gameplay and abundant loot. Substantial DLC content further extends the adventure.

7. New Tales From The Borderlands (2022)

The sequel to Tales From The Borderlands, this game introduces Anu, Octavio, and Fran, whose discovery of a powerful artifact leads them into conflict with Tediore Corporation. Similar to its predecessor, the game emphasizes narrative choices and their consequences.

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 Interactive suggests a potentially brighter future for the franchise, with Take-Two executives expressing confidence in the IP's growth potential. The future of the Borderlands universe appears promising.