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

Quickly establishing itself as a leading light in the looter shooter genre, Borderlands has become a gaming icon. Its distinctive cel-shaded art style and the unforgettable Psycho Bandit have cemented its place in modern video game culture. But the franchise’s reach extends far beyond gaming, encompassing comics, novels, and even a tabletop game. This month marks a significant milestone: the long-awaited Borderlands movie, directed by Eli Roth (Hostel, Thanksgiving), brings Pandora and its inhabitants to the big screen. While critical reception may have been mixed, the film's release is a major achievement for the franchise.

With Borderlands 4 confirmed for release later this year, many existing and new fans will likely want to revisit the series. To help you navigate the Borderlands universe, we've created a timeline outlining the games' chronological order and release order.

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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 smaller, non-canon titles: Borderlands: Vault Hunter Pinball and Borderlands Legends.

Where's the Best Place to Start?

While Borderlands 1 is the obvious starting point, any of the three main games offer a good introduction if story isn't your primary concern. All three are available on modern platforms and share similar gameplay. However, for a cohesive narrative experience, 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 treasure hunt on the volatile planet Pandora. Their quest for the legendary Vault quickly descends into chaos, pitting them against the Crimson Lance militia, ferocious wildlife, and countless bandits. The game's addictive gameplay loop of combat, loot, and character progression instantly captivated players and launched the looter shooter genre. Four expansions further enriched the experience.

2. Borderlands: The Pre-Sequel (2014)

Developed by 2K Australia and Gearbox Software, Borderlands: The Pre-Sequel bridges the gap between the first two main games. It follows Athena, Wilhelm, Nisha, and Claptrap as they search for a Vault on Elpis, Pandora's moon. Featuring Handsome Jack as a central antagonist, the game expands upon his backstory and showcases his descent into madness. Several post-release expansions added new content and playable 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 new Vault puts them at odds with the tyrannical Handsome Jack. The game expands upon the original's formula with a larger scale, more quests, additional character classes, and an even greater arsenal of weapons. It's considered by many to be the best in the series. Numerous post-release additions included campaigns, characters, and missions.

4. Tales From The Borderlands (2014 - 2015)

Telltale Games' episodic adventure, Tales From The Borderlands, offers a story-driven experience set on Pandora. It follows Rhys, a Hyperion employee, and Fiona, a con artist, as they become entangled in a quest for a new Vault. The game's branching narrative and impactful choices have solidified its place in the Borderlands canon, with characters appearing in later installments.

5. Tiny Tina's Wonderlands (2022)

Tiny Tina's Wonderlands (2022) expands the Borderlands universe into a fantasy setting. Based on the popular Borderlands 2 DLC, Tiny Tina's Assault on Dragon Keep, this game retains the core Borderlands gameplay loop within a high-fantasy world. It features a new overworld, spells, and numerous expansions.

6. Borderlands 3 (2019)

Borderlands 3 (2019) introduces Amara, FL4K, Zane, and Moze as they confront the villainous siren twins, Troy and Tyreen. This installment expands the series to multiple planets and features a large ensemble cast of returning characters. It delivers more of the series' signature chaotic gameplay, along with extensive DLC content.

7. New Tales From The Borderlands (2022)

New Tales From The Borderlands (2022) introduces a new set of protagonists: Anu, Octavio, and Fran. Their adventures begin with the discovery of a powerful artifact, which attracts the attention of the ruthless Tediore corporation. Like its predecessor, this game emphasizes narrative choices and branching storylines.

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 bright future for the franchise, with potential for increased frequency of new projects.