Gearbox Software is gearing up for the release of Borderlands 4 on September 12, and it’s promising an unprecedented arsenal of over 30 billion unique guns. Achieving this staggering variety is thanks to advanced procedural generation and a revamped weapon customization system.
Art Director Adam May has confirmed that this massive number isn’t just a marketing claim. By using sophisticated procedural generation, Borderlands 4 offers an expansive array of firearms. As May mentioned, players will have access to more than 30 billion different guns.
This new installment introduces a robust weapon customization system. Players can now modify and swap out weapon components like barrels, attachments, sights, and magazines—features that were not available in Borderlands 3, where customization was limited to trinkets and skins.
A standout feature of Borderlands 4 is the innovative Licensed Parts system. This allows players to mix and match weapon components from different manufacturers, creating what the developers call “cross-pollination.” With manufacturers like Jakobs, Daedalus, Vladof, Torgue, and others, players can craft truly unique and functional weapon combinations.
Imagine finding a Daedalus underbarrel on a Maliwan shotgun. This flexibility ensures each gun has its own distinct look and feel, giving players a rough idea of its performance based on its components.
The creative process behind this innovation was led by Principal Artist and Art Director Jimmy Barnett. According to Anthony Nicholson, the head of development for Borderlands 4, Barnett crafted an extensive “wall of guns” within Unreal Engine. This visual map showcased how various components from different manufacturers could fit together seamlessly, considering everything from slides and animations to the aesthetics of each weapon.
Exploring Kairos in Borderlands 4 means continually discovering and experimenting with new firearms. The game’s loot system remains a core aspect of the gameplay, encouraging players to constantly find, use, and swap out weapons.
Additionally, the narrative team has added depth by giving each weapon a unique name and corporate flair, enhancing the game’s rich universe.
With its groundbreaking weapon system and extensive customization, Borderlands 4 is set to offer a captivating experience for fans of the series. Ready to dive into a world of limitless firepower? Keep an eye out for its release.
