Borderlands 4 is getting an important day one update, adding in key improvements and optimizations, but some users should set their expectations now. There's no shortage of excitement from the community as Borderlands 4 is nearing its highly anticipated release, with many preview events indicating a potential return to form for the series.
While Borderlands 4 attempts to fix the things that players weren't terribly fond of in the previous game, Gearbox is also adding in many new features that aims to evolve the franchise in new ways. The maps themselves are much larger and more open than in previous games, presenting more verticality and places to explore. As such, players will have new movement options in Borderlands 4 to help, including a grapple ability, gliding, and other traversal mechanics. With so much new going on under the hood, Gearbox is making sure to keep the systems running smoothly with a Day One update.
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Borderlands 4 Getting an Important Day One Update
As Borderlands 4 rapidly approaches its global launch date, there has been some new discourse around potential optimization issues and whether a faulty preview device could be to blame for some of the lackluster performance problems some previews experienced. In response, Gearbox's development chief Randy Pitchford has taken to social media to respond to concerns and confirm a big Day One update that "does a lot" including further key improvements. Pitchford has also reaffirmed that the studio is confident in the game's performance and optimization, going as far as putting together some assets that show how the game's performances can vary based on different settings.
However, Pitchford made sure to set expectations for fans, especially those hoping that the Day One patch on launch day will miraculously make the game playable at below minimum specs. Pitchford makes it clear that even after the patch, anyone running below the Borderlands 4 system requirements should set their expectations that the game will still generally be unplayable. With large open maps set in a seamless world, older hardware just won't be able to provide the same experience as someone running newer or more modern tech.
Fans should expect plenty more from the game after it launches. Updates aside, Gearbox has revealed extensive post-launch DLC plans for Borderlands 4 with a roadmap detailing both free and paid updates. The first free update adds a free mini-event called the Horrors of Kairos, likely launching sometime in October as it appears to be inspired by the Halloween season. Players will be seeing new bosses, weekly missions, and the return of Pealescent rarity between bigger paid content like Bounty Packs and the major story pack update which includes a brand-new vault hunter as well.
Borderlands 4
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OpenCritic Reviews
- Top Critic Avg: 82 /100 Critics Rec: 88%
- Released
- September 12, 2025
- ESRB
- Mature 17+ / Blood and Gore, Intense Violence, Sexual Themes, Strong Language, In-Game Purchases, Users Interact
- Developer(s)
- Gearbox Software
- Publisher(s)
- 2K
