When discussing FPS games, the importance of the story can vary. Some series, like Call of Duty, have loose connections between titles. Others, such as Halo, require players to follow a specific order to grasp the plot fully. The Borderlands series finds itself in between these extremes. While many think its focus is on humor rather than deep storytelling, there is a rich lore that ties all games together leading up to Borderlands 4. Despite being called “Borderlands 4,” this franchise has more than eight titles in total. This guide will help you navigate through the entire Borderlands series in both release and chronological order.
Release Order of borderlands Games
As its debut in 2009,nine games have been released within the Borderlands universe,with Borderlands 4 expected to be number ten. This list includes main entries and spin-offs but excludes any remastered versions or re-releases. Playing through these titles in their release order allows you to appreciate how gameplay and mechanics have developed over time.
- 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)
Chronological Order of Borderland Games
Playing the games chronologically can be trickier due to timeline shifts caused by certain entries like The Pre-Sequel which jumps around different points in time within its narrative structure.
While it’s not necessary to play every game for enjoyment, doing so enhances your experience and understanding of character arcs and events throughout the series.
Note that Borderland Legends is excluded from this list since it has been removed from availability.For our timeline reference, we will use an unofficial source that outlines years within the universe:
1) Borderlands: Set approximately 19-18 years ago.
2) Borderland: The Pre-Sequel: Features flashbacks set around 17 years ago.
3) Borderland 2: Takes place about 16 years ago.
4) Tales From The Borderland: Occurs roughly 15 years ago.
5) Another segment of the Pre-Sequel fits into this same timeframe at about 15 years ago.
6) Tiny Tina’s Wonderlan ds: Set at an unknown time before three.
7) Bordelands Three: Happens six years prior to present day events.
8) New Tales from The Bordelands: Takes place five years before current events.
9) Bordelands Four represents present-day happenings.
By following either order—release or chronological—you can enjoy all aspects of what makes this franchise unique while experiencing its growth over time!
