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

The Borderlands franchise, a celebrated looter shooter, has become a gaming icon. Its distinctive cel-shaded style and memorable characters have cemented its place in modern gaming culture. The franchise's influence extends beyond video games, encompassing comics, novels, and even a tabletop game. This month marks a significant milestone with the release of the Borderlands movie, directed by Eli Roth. While critical reception was mixed, the film represents a major step for the franchise.

With Borderlands 4 slated for release later this year, both new and returning fans are likely eager to revisit the series. To help navigate this expansive universe, we've compiled a timeline of the games.

Jump to:

Chronological Order of Play | Release Order of Play

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How Many Borderlands Games Exist?

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

Where to Begin Your Borderlands Journey?

While Borderlands 1 is the logical starting point, any of the three main games provide a solid introduction if story continuity isn't a primary concern. The trilogy shares similar gameplay and style. However, for a cohesive narrative experience, especially after watching the film, beginning with the first game is recommended.

Borderlands: Game of the Year Edition

[Price Comparison: Fanatical, Amazon]

Canon Borderlands Games in Chronological Order:

(Minor spoilers ahead)

1. Borderlands (2009):

The original game introduces Lilith, Brick, Roland, and Mordecai, four Vault Hunters searching for a legendary vault on Pandora. Their quest plunges them into conflict with the Crimson Lance, hostile wildlife, and bandits. Its innovative gameplay loop of combat, loot acquisition, and character progression defined the looter shooter genre. The game also received four expansions.

2. Borderlands: The Pre-Sequel (2014):

Set between the first two main games, The Pre-Sequel features new Vault Hunters (Athena, Wilhelm, Nisha, and Claptrap) on Elpis, Pandora's moon. It expands upon Handsome Jack's backstory, showcasing his descent into villainy. Several expansions were released post-launch.

3. Borderlands 2 (2012):

This sequel returns to Pandora with new Vault Hunters (Maya, Axton, Salvador, and Zer0) facing off against Handsome Jack. It expands upon the original's formula with more quests, classes, and weaponry. 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, this spin-off focuses on Rhys and Fiona, whose schemes lead them on a Vault-related adventure. Its branching narrative and impactful choices make it a significant part of the Borderlands 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 Borderlands gameplay remains, featuring a vast array of weaponry, classes, and enemies. Four DLC expansions enhance the experience.

6. Borderlands 3 (2019):

The third main installment introduces new Vault Hunters (Amara, FL4K, Zane, and Moze) tasked with stopping the villainous Siren twins, Troy and Tyreen. The game expands the setting beyond Pandora, featuring multiple planets and returning characters. Substantial DLC content was released post-launch.

7. New Tales From The Borderlands (2022):

A sequel to Tales From The Borderlands, featuring new protagonists (Anu, Octavio, and Fran) who stumble upon a powerful artifact, leading them into conflict with Tediore Corporation. This narrative-driven game emphasizes player choices and their consequences.

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 is the next major release, scheduled for September 23, 2025. Take-Two's acquisition of Gearbox Software suggests a bright future for the franchise, with significant potential for growth.