If you’re searching for the correct Borderlands games in order, you’re in the right place. The Borderlands franchise is one of the most unique looter-shooter series ever created, combining FPS gameplay, RPG progression, chaotic humor, and billions of randomized weapons.
This complete guide explains the best Borderlands games in order, including release order and chronological timeline, so you can fully experience the madness of Pandora and the wider Borderlands universe.
Best Way to Play Borderlands Games
The best Borderlands games in order for most players is release order. The franchise gradually expands its gameplay systems, world-building, humor, and loot mechanics with every entry.
Playing in release order also helps players understand recurring characters like Claptrap, Handsome Jack, Lilith, and Tiny Tina while experiencing how the overall story evolves.
Even though each game has its own adventure, the series contains many returning characters and connected events.
Borderlands Games in Release Order
- Borderlands (2009)
- Borderlands 2 (2012)
- Borderlands: The Pre-Sequel (2014)
- Tales from the Borderlands (2014)
- Borderlands 3 (2019)
- New Tales from the Borderlands (2022)
- Borderlands 4 (2025)
This release order is the most recommended Borderlands games in order because it preserves major story reveals, character arcs, and gameplay improvements.
Borderlands Games Chronological Order
- Borderlands
- Borderlands: The Pre-Sequel
- Borderlands 2
- Tales from the Borderlands
- Borderlands 3
- New Tales from the Borderlands
- Borderlands 4
The Borderlands games in order timeline can be slightly confusing because The Pre-Sequel was released after Borderlands 2 but takes place between the first and second games.
Tales from the Borderlands also plays a major role in connecting Borderlands 2 and Borderlands 3 through important character developments.
Tiny Tina’s Wonderlands exists mostly as a fantasy spin-off inspired by the in-universe tabletop game “Bunkers & Badasses.”
Why Borderlands Became So Popular
Borderlands became massively popular because it combined fast FPS gameplay with addictive loot mechanics usually found in RPGs.
The franchise also stood out visually because of its comic book-inspired cel-shaded art style, which gave the series a unique identity compared to other shooters.
The humor, co-op gameplay, and insane weapon variety helped Borderlands become one of gaming’s biggest franchises.
Why Borderlands 2 Is Considered the Best
One reason players constantly search for Borderlands games in order is because Borderlands 2 remains one of the most beloved looter-shooters ever made.
The game improved nearly every system from the original while introducing Handsome Jack, who many players consider one of the greatest video game villains ever.
Its combination of humor, emotional moments, co-op gameplay, and loot progression made it the defining entry in the franchise.
Should You Play Tales from the Borderlands?
Absolutely. Even though it plays very differently from the main shooters, Tales from the Borderlands contains major story developments and introduces important characters.
The game focuses more heavily on dialogue and choices while maintaining the same humor and world-building fans expect from the series.
Several characters and plotlines later appear again in Borderlands 3.
What Is Tiny Tina’s Wonderlands?
Tiny Tina’s Wonderlands is a fantasy spin-off that transforms Borderlands gameplay into a tabletop-inspired adventure filled with magic, dragons, and absurd humor.
While not essential to the main storyline, the game expands the franchise’s universe and offers one of the most creative settings in the series.
Its class customization and fantasy weapons also gave the franchise a fresh gameplay direction.
My Personal Experience with Borderlands
The Borderlands franchise remains addictive because of how rewarding the loot system feels.
Finding rare legendary weapons while fighting through chaotic battles with friends creates a gameplay loop that stays entertaining for dozens of hours.
Borderlands 2 especially still stands out because of its memorable characters and surprisingly emotional story moments hidden beneath all the chaos.
FAQ
Do I need to play Borderlands games in order?
No, but release order is strongly recommended for understanding the story and recurring characters.
Which Borderlands game is the best?
Most fans consider Borderlands 2 the best game in the franchise.
Is Tiny Tina’s Wonderlands connected to Borderlands?
Yes, it exists within the Borderlands universe as a fantasy-themed spin-off adventure.
Download Checklist
📥 Download Borderlands Checklist (Free PDF)
Final Thoughts
The Borderlands games in order offers one of the most entertaining co-op shooter experiences in gaming history. Whether you enjoy chaotic gunfights, addictive loot systems, or absurd humor, Borderlands remains essential for FPS and RPG fans.
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Join the Discussion
Which Borderlands game is your favorite? Do you still prefer Borderlands 2, or did Borderlands 3 become your top pick? Share your thoughts in the comments below!