Borderlands 4: Examining the 'Bigger Numbers' Approach to Game Design

The upcoming release of Borderlands 4 continues the franchise's long-standing tradition of highlighting immense quantities within its gameplay, a marketing strategy that has consistently focused on escalating numerical values. For nearly two decades, the series has promoted a philosophy of more, touting an almost unimaginable arsenal of firearms—with the latest iteration boasting an astounding 30 billion unique weapons. This emphasis on sheer volume also extends to character progression, as lead character designer Nick Thurston revealed that Borderlands 4 will feature significantly more passive abilities than all prior Borderlands titles combined, with each hero offering approximately 80.

However, the question persists whether this escalation in numbers truly enhances the player's engagement. While the appeal of collecting vast amounts of loot and seeing statistical improvements is undeniable, the practical experience in previous games often involved frequent interruptions to manage overflowing inventories of less desirable items. This raises a critical point: while a greater array of options for character customization is theoretically appealing, the effectiveness of these choices hinges on their genuine impact on gameplay. Historically, Borderlands has presented a mixed bag, with some skills profoundly altering playstyles, while others offered only marginal, almost imperceptible percentage boosts that became relevant only in very specific, late-game scenarios. Doubling the number of skill options could lead to an overwhelming interface rather than deeper strategic choices, prompting players to question if they will be sifting through numerous inconsequential bonuses instead of truly engaging with innovative mechanics.

Despite potential skepticism, Borderlands 4 shows promise in other areas, appearing to address criticisms from its predecessor. Nevertheless, a lingering concern remains that the game might simply amplify existing formulas without introducing substantial evolutionary changes. After years within the Borderlands universe, what players truly desire is not just an increase in numbers, whether for passive skills or weaponry, but rather a significant evolution in core gameplay mechanics that offers fresh and compelling experiences.

Ultimately, the true measure of a game's success lies not just in its vastness, but in the depth and quality of its innovations. The pursuit of ever-larger numbers should ideally translate into richer, more diverse, and genuinely engaging gameplay. It is through meaningful advancements and thoughtful design that a franchise can continue to inspire and entertain, fostering a dynamic and rewarding journey for its players.