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 hugely recognizable gaming franchise. From its distinctive cel-shaded art style to its iconic masked psycho, this foul-mouthed, tongue-in-cheek sci-fi universe is a staple of modern gaming culture. But the series' reach extends far beyond video games, encompassing comics, novels, and even a tabletop game.

This month marks a significant milestone: the long-awaited arrival of the Borderlands movie, directed by Eli Roth (Hostel, Thanksgiving). This big-screen adaptation reimagines Pandora and its vault-hunting inhabitants for a new audience. 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 be revisiting the games and exploring the series' origins. To help, we've created 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?

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 starting with Borderlands 1 is the most straightforward approach, any of the three main games offer a solid introduction if story isn't your primary concern. The trilogy shares similar style, scope, and gameplay, and all titles are available on modern platforms. However, for a complete understanding of the overarching narrative, especially if you've recently seen the movie, beginning with the first game is recommended.

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Every Canon Borderlands Game in Chronological Order

(These blurbs contain mild spoilers.)

1. Borderlands (2009)

The original Borderlands, released in 2009, introduces Lilith, Brick, Roland, and Mordecai – four Vault Hunters embarking on a treasure hunt for the legendary Vault on the volatile planet Pandora. Their quest quickly descends into chaos as they battle the Crimson Lance militia, dangerous wildlife, and countless bandits. The game's addictive gameplay loop of combat, loot acquisition, and character progression helped define the looter shooter genre. 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 bridges the gap between the first two main games. It follows new Vault Hunters – Athena, Wilhelm, Nisha, and Claptrap – on a mission to a Vault on the moon of Elpis. This entry expands upon Borderlands 2's story, prominently featuring Handsome Jack and showcasing his descent into villainy. Post-launch 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 – facing off against the tyrannical Handsome Jack. This larger-scale sequel builds upon the original's formula, offering more quests, character classes, and, of course, even more guns. Considered by many as the best in the series, it also received extensive post-release support.

4. Tales From The Borderlands (2014-2015)

This episodic adventure from Telltale Games takes a different approach, focusing on a story-driven narrative rather than action. Set after Borderlands 2, 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 choices impact the story, and its characters have appeared in later installments.

5. Tiny Tina's Wonderlands (2022)

A fantasy-themed spin-off inspired by the Borderlands 2 DLC, Tiny Tina's Assault on Dragon Keep, Wonderlands retains the core Borderlands gameplay while shifting the setting to a magical kingdom. Players embark on quests, battle fantasy creatures, and collect an abundance of weaponry, with the added elements of an overworld and spellcasting. Multiple expansions have been released.

6. Borderlands 3 (2019)

Borderlands 3 (2019) introduces a new cast of Vault Hunters – Amara, FL4K, Zane, and Moze – tasked with stopping the villainous siren twins, Troy and Tyreen. For the first time in the series, players explore multiple planets, encountering familiar faces alongside the new protagonists. The game features extensive DLC content.

7. New Tales From The Borderlands (2022)

This sequel to Tales From The Borderlands features a new set of protagonists – Anu, Octavio, and Fran – who discover a powerful artifact and become targets of the Tediore corporation. The narrative focuses on player 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. Following Take-Two's acquisition of Gearbox Software, the future of the franchise appears bright, with potential for more frequent releases and expanded media.