Concerns That Borderlands 4 Could Make a Major DLC Mistake Again

The anticipation for Borderlands 4 is palpable, especially with the release of a new trailer that has reignited excitement among fans. This new installment appears to ramp up the intensity, featuring an array of innovative gameplay mechanics, fresh characters, and a large-scale conflict that promises to be unprecedented in the series. Much like its predecessors, players can expect to choose from four Vault Hunters, embark on adventures across diverse locales, and hunt for an abundance of loot.

In line with previous iterations, the upcoming release is likely to include downloadable content (DLC), a cornerstone of the franchise’s ongoing evolution. However, I remain hopeful that the DLC will avoid the pitfalls seen in the prior title, Tiny Tina’s Wonderland. While that game offered a uniquely crafted main campaign that rivaled earlier entries, its downloadable content was disappointing, leaving many wondering about the future direction of DLC in the series.

A Complicated Legacy of DLC in Borderlands

DLC: A Source of Enjoyable Spinoff Narratives

Borderlands 3 - Bounty Blood Devil Riders Gang

The Zombie Island of Dr. Ned Borderlands DLC

Since the launch of the first Borderlands, DLC has played a significant role, with each game offering multiple expansions featuring new narratives, character skins, and loot, as well as raising the level cap. While the quality of these expansions has varied, they generally serve as valuable additions to the main experience. Players can acquire these extras individually or opt for a season pass at a discounted price, with the exception of the original title.

Most DLC packs introduce new stories and side missions, ranging from arena challenges, such as the notorious Mad Moxxi’s Underdome Riot, to unique characters like Captain Scarlett from Borderlands 2. My husband and I enjoy the split-screen experience, eagerly anticipating the whimsical narratives and engaging missions that these expansions provide. Our personal favorites often involve Hammerlock, with Guns, Love, and Tentacles being an unparalleled highlight, while memorable lines from The Zombie Island of Dr. Ned have become fixtures in our gaming lexicon.

The Disappointment of Tiny Tina’s Wonderland DLC

A Rushed Experience with No New Offerings

Tiny Tina's Wonderland Characters Casting Spells

Tiny Tina's Wonderland Glutton's Gamble DLC

Tiny Tina's Wonderland Coiled Captors DLC

Unlike earlier DLCs within the Borderlands franchise that expanded upon narratives, lore, and exciting gameplay elements, Tiny Tina’s Wonderland‘s DLC offerings fell short. The Dreamveil Overlook DLC, for instance, failed to deliver new content, ultimately feeling rushed and lacking creativity.

Anticipation ran high for Tiny Tina’s Wonderland, particularly with the availability of a season pass, without hesitation on our end, given prior positive experiences. Sadly, the potential for exploration felt stifled, as all the DLC levels were confined to a single location—a dark carnival-themed area with limited character introductions and interaction options.

Each new map within this DLC was deeply underwhelming, resulting in feelings of confusion and frustration. In a universe inspired by Dungeons & Dragons, where imaginative possibilities are boundless, this content was rendered dull and forgettable. Unfortunately, it felt as though the DLC packs were added solely out of obligation, rather than with genuine creative intent.

Strategies for Borderlands 4 to Overcome DLC Pitfalls

Quality Should Prevail Over Quantity

I’d like to believe that the shortcomings of Tiny Tina’s Wonderland’s DLC stemmed from its spinoff nature; after all, it was designed as an alternative to the main franchise games. While it was an enjoyable experience, the DLC felt hastily produced, merely fulfilling a checklist item for DLC release.

As excitement builds for Borderlands 4, my concern lingers that similar issues may arise. With the increasing scale and ambition of the franchise, there is a risk that developers may lack the resources to create meaningful and unique DLCs. To steer clear of what transpired with Tiny Tina’s Wonderland, it’s essential for Gearbox to prioritize quality over quantity, potentially choosing to forego DLC altogether if it doesn’t meet the standard of excellence fans expect.

While I do look forward to additional enjoyable content post-main campaign, I believe there are alternatives that don’t require extensive new campaigns. Borderlands 3, for example, introduced a wealth of engaging end-game activities, such as the Proving Grounds and Circles of Slaughter. I wouldn’t mind if some end-game options were offered as DLC, provided they were clearly labeled and did not promise extensive new content.

If Borderlands 4 includes traditional DLC and season passes, I sincerely hope it steers clear of forcing unrefined content merely to fulfill market expectations. (Selfishly, I wish for more Hammerlock as well, but that’s just personal preference.) Regardless of the choices made, my husband and I are now prepared to evaluate the offerings before making any financial commitments for access.

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