Play 'Borderlands' Franchise Chronologically

The Borderlands franchise, a prominent face in the looter shooter genre, has evolved into a multimedia phenomenon, spanning video games, comics, novels, and even a tabletop game. Its distinctive cel-shaded art style and memorable characters have cemented its place in modern gaming culture. This month marks a significant milestone with the release of the Borderlands movie, directed by Eli Roth, despite mixed critical reception. With Borderlands 4 slated for release later this year, now's the perfect time to revisit or discover this acclaimed series.

This timeline details the games in order to help you navigate the Borderlands universe:

Playing Borderlands Chronologically:

This approach prioritizes the narrative flow.

Playing Borderlands by Release Date:

This method follows the order of the games' releases.

[Poll: Are you going to see the Borderlands movie in theaters? Yes! / No!]

How Many Borderlands Games Are There?

Seven main Borderlands games and spin-offs form the series canon, alongside two smaller, non-canon titles.

Where to Begin?

Starting with Borderlands 1 is recommended for a complete narrative experience. However, any of the three mainline games offer a solid introduction to the gameplay.

Borderlands: Game of the Year Edition

[Price comparison across various retailers]

Every Canon Borderlands Game in Chronological Order:

(Mild spoilers ahead)

1. Borderlands (2009):

The original game introduces Lilith, Brick, Roland, and Mordecai as they hunt for the legendary Vault on Pandora. The game's success launched the looter shooter genre and was enhanced by four post-release expansions.

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

Set between the first two games, this installment features new Vault Hunters exploring Elpis, Handsome Jack's moon base. It expands on Jack's backstory and includes several post-release expansions.

3. Borderlands 2 (2012):

The sequel returns to Pandora, introducing Maya, Axton, Salvador, and Zer0 as they confront Handsome Jack. Considered by many as the best in the series, it features a compelling story and numerous post-release updates.

4. Tales From The Borderlands (2014-2015):

A Telltale Games episodic adventure, this spin-off focuses on Rhys and Fiona's story, set after Borderlands 2. Its narrative choices impact the storyline and its characters feature in Borderlands 3.

5. Tiny Tina's Wonderlands (2022):

A fantasy-themed spin-off based on the Borderlands 2 DLC, this game features Tina as the Dungeon Master. It retains the core Borderlands gameplay with a new setting and expansions.

6. Borderlands 3 (2019):

The third mainline game introduces Amara, FL4K, Zane, and Moze as they battle the Calypso Twins across multiple planets. It features a large cast of returning characters and extensive DLC.

7. New Tales From The Borderlands (2022):

A sequel to Tales from the Borderlands, this game introduces new protagonists, Anu, Octavio, and Fran, as they navigate a conflict with Tediore Corporation.

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 is set for release on September 23, 2025, and Take-Two Interactive's acquisition of Gearbox Software suggests a continued expansion of the Borderlands universe.