Gearbox Unveils New Concept Art and Details for Borderlands 4 at PAX West 2024
Gearbox Software made waves at PAX West 2024, offering fans an exciting glimpse into the highly anticipated looter-shooter sequel, Borderlands 4. The studio showcased a selection of stunning concept art, along with new details about the game’s setting, aesthetic, and technological advancements. Though Gearbox kept much of the gameplay mechanics under wraps, the reveals suggest a bold new direction for the franchise.
The concept art showcases a range of diverse environments that players will be able to explore, loot, and shoot their way through. From a smokey, candle-lit room illuminated by glowing blue light to a small neon town nestled among snowy mountains, the visuals hint at a vast array of locations that will keep gameplay fresh and exciting. Fans got a sneak peek of these settings in the gallery presented at the event, providing a sense of the creative energy Gearbox is injecting into Borderlands 4.
Art director Adam May, speaking at PAX West, expressed the team’s enthusiasm for expanding the Borderlands universe. “The Borderlands universe is super interesting and there is so much to get to play with,” May said. He described the unique post-apocalyptic setting of the series as “high-tech but lo-fi,” blending futuristic technology with rugged, dystopian elements. This mix opens the door for imaginative new features across weapons, characters, and the world as a whole.
A Deeper Dive into the Borderlands Universe
Gearbox dropped another major revelation during the event—Borderlands 4 will pick up directly after the events of Borderlands 3. The sequel aims to expand on the universe fans know and love, incorporating new technologies that promise to elevate gameplay. Although May remained tight-lipped on specifics, he hinted that the team is pushing boundaries in terms of tech and color, making this the “most diverse and beautiful game” Gearbox has ever created.
Technology appears to be a key focus for Borderlands 4, as Gearbox explores high-tech themes that were only lightly touched upon in previous titles. May tease that the studio is playing with these elements in innovative ways, likely impacting not only the game’s world but also its weapons and characters.
While the studio didn’t reveal a release date, Borderlands 4 is expected to launch in 2025 for PC, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X|S. Fans eager for more news will have to wait a bit longer, as Gearbox has more work to do before unveiling additional details. In the meantime, fans can dive into popular theories sparked by the teaser trailer first revealed at Gamescom’s Opening Night Live earlier this month.
With a blend of new environments, cutting-edge technology, and the franchise’s signature humor and chaos, Borderlands 4 is shaping up to be a significant entry in the series. Stay tuned for more updates as the development team continues to refine what they promise will be their most beautiful and expansive game yet.
