Borderlands 3 Review

Borderlands 3, developed by Gearbox Software and published by 2K Games, arrived on the PlayStation 4 in 2019 and received a substantial free next-gen upgrade for the PlayStation 5 (PS5) in 2020. This ultimate looter-shooter experience builds on the series’ chaotic foundation, delivering an even grander scale of mayhem, a ridiculous amount of guns, and a visually stunning performance on Sony’s latest console. This Borderlands 3 PS5 review explores why it’s the definitive way to experience this action RPG.

Gameplay: Endless Guns, Explosive Powers, and PS5 Enhancements

The core gameplay loop of Borderlands 3 on the PS5 remains as addictive as ever: choose from four new, incredibly diverse Vault Hunters (Moze, Amara, FL4K, Zane), each with unique character classes and multiple skill trees. Embark on quests, blast through hordes of enemies, and collect “bazillions of guns” – a promise the game truly delivers on. Every weapon drop is a potential game-changer, with unique manufacturers, elemental effects, and firing modes.

Combat is fast, fluid, and incredibly satisfying. Each Vault Hunter feels distinct, offering varied approaches to the chaotic gunfights. The game truly shines in co-op multiplayer, supporting up to four players online, and, uniquely, four-player split-screen on PS5. The PS5 enhancements are a game-changer: a native 4K resolution at a buttery-smooth 60 FPS transforms the visual experience, making particle effects and explosions pop like never before. Improved load times are drastically reduced, getting you into the action faster. The DualSense controller integration is fantastic, with responsive haptic feedback conveying every shot and explosion, and adaptive triggers adding satisfying resistance to different weapon types.

• Addictive looter-shooter core gameplay loop
• Four new, distinct Vault Hunters with deep skill trees
• Massive variety of procedurally generated guns
• Excellent 4-player co-op (online and 4-player split-screen)
• Stunning 4K resolution, 60 FPS, fast load times on PS5
• Immersive DualSense haptic feedback and adaptive trigger support

Story and Setting: The Calypso Twins and New Worlds

The narrative of Borderlands 3 introduces a new pair of charismatic and utterly deranged villains: the Calypso Twins, Troy and Tyreen. These livestreaming cult leaders seek to claim the power of the Vaults across the galaxy. The story takes players beyond the familiar wasteland of Pandora to discover entirely new planets, each with its own unique environments, enemy types, and memorable characters.

The storytelling is rich with the series’ signature irreverent humor, pop culture references, and plenty of unexpected twists. Familiar faces from previous Borderlands games return, adding nostalgic value and contributing to the expansive lore.

Graphics and Sound: Cel-Shaded Spectacle

Visually, Borderlands 3 on the PS5 is simply gorgeous. The iconic cel-shaded graphics are rendered with incredible fidelity, making the vibrant environments and exaggerated character designs truly pop. The improved resolution and framerate highlight the explosive particle effects and fluid animations, making every firefight a feast for the eyes.

The sound design is fantastic, with an energetic and diverse soundtrack that perfectly complements the chaotic action. The weapon sounds are punchy and unique to each manufacturer, and the top-tier voice acting, particularly for the Calypso Twins, delivers the game’s distinctive humor with brilliant performances.

Replayability: Mayhem, Guardian Ranks, and Massive DLC

Borderlands 3 offers virtually endless replayability. After completing the main campaign, players can dive into Mayhem Mode, which scales difficulty and loot for greater challenges. The Guardian Rank system provides continuous progression, offering passive bonuses. Furthermore, the game boasts a massive amount of high-quality DLC (including new story campaigns and playable Vault Hunters), ensuring hundreds, if not thousands, of hours of content.

Is Borderlands 3 on PS5 Worth Playing Today?

Absolutely. For fans of looter shooters, action RPGs, or anyone seeking a chaotic, humorous, and endlessly rewarding co-op experience, Borderlands 3 on PS5 is the definitive version to play. Its stunning graphics, buttery-smooth performance, and immersive DualSense integration elevate an already fantastic game into a true gaming masterpiece on the PlayStation 5.