How to Play the Borderlands Games (and Spin-Offs) in Timeline Order

Borderlands: A Franchise Timeline and Guide for New and Returning Fans

The Borderlands franchise, known for its cel-shaded visuals, darkly humorous sci-fi setting, and loot-driven gameplay, has exploded in popularity since its debut. Now a multimedia powerhouse encompassing comics, novels, and even a movie (which, while not critically acclaimed, represents a significant milestone), Borderlands shows no signs of slowing down, with Borderlands 4 on the horizon.

This guide provides a chronological overview of the main games, helping both newcomers and returning fans navigate this sprawling universe.

Are you planning to see the Borderlands movie?

How Many Borderlands Games Exist?

Seven canonical Borderlands games and spin-offs exist, along with two non-canonical titles (Borderlands: Vault Hunter Pinball and Borderlands Legends).

Where to Begin Your Borderlands Journey?

While starting with Borderlands 1 offers the most complete narrative experience, any of the three main entries (1, 2, and 3) provide a solid introduction to the gameplay. All three are readily available on modern platforms. However, for a cohesive story experience, especially following the movie, beginning with Borderlands 1 is recommended.

Chronological Order of Canonical Borderlands Games:

(Note: Minor spoilers may be present below.)

1. Borderlands (2009): This foundational title introduces Lilith, Brick, Roland, and Mordecai as they hunt for the legendary Vault on Pandora, battling the Crimson Lance, wildlife, and bandits. The game's success launched the looter-shooter genre and included four post-release expansions.

2. Borderlands: The Pre-Sequel (2014): A prequel bridging the gap between the first two main games, this installment follows Athena, Wilhelm, Nisha, and Claptrap on Elpis, the moon of Pandora. It prominently features Handsome Jack, the antagonist of Borderlands 2, showcasing his descent into villainy. Multiple expansions were released post-launch.

3. Borderlands 2 (2012): The direct sequel returns to Pandora, introducing Maya, Axton, Salvador, and Zer0 as they confront the tyrannical Handsome Jack. This entry expands on the original's formula with more quests, character classes, and, of course, guns. Numerous post-release expansions were added.

4. Tales From The Borderlands (2014-2015): A Telltale Games episodic adventure focusing on Rhys and Fiona, a Hyperion employee and a con artist, respectively, who become entangled in a quest for a new Vault. This narrative-driven experience significantly contributes to the Borderlands canon.

5. Tiny Tina's Wonderlands (2022): A fantasy-themed spin-off based on the Borderlands 2 DLC, "Tiny Tina's Assault on Dragon Keep." While the setting changes, the core Borderlands gameplay remains, featuring a vast array of weapons, classes, and enemies. Four DLC expansions are available.

6. Borderlands 3 (2019): The third main installment introduces Amara, FL4K, Zane, and Moze as they combat the siren twins, Troy and Tyreen. This game expands the setting beyond Pandora, featuring multiple planets and numerous returning characters. Extensive DLC content is available.

7. New Tales From The Borderlands (2022): A sequel to the original Tales, this game features new protagonists—Anu, Octavio, and Fran—who encounter a powerful artifact and must evade the Tediore corporation. It maintains the narrative-driven structure of the original.

Release Order of All Borderlands Games:

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)

The Future of Borderlands:

Borderlands 4 is slated for release on September 23, 2025, promising to be a significant addition to the franchise. Take-Two's acquisition of Gearbox suggests further expansion of the Borderlands universe in the coming years.