How to Play the Borderlands Games (and Spin-Offs) in Timeline Order

Quickly establishing itself as a leading light in the looter shooter genre, Borderlands has become a hugely recognizable video game franchise. From its distinctive cel-shaded art style to its iconic masked psycho, this foul-mouthed, tongue-in-cheek sci-fi universe is a cornerstone of modern gaming culture. But the series' influence extends far beyond video games; it's a multimedia phenomenon, encompassing comics, novels, and even a tabletop game.

This month marks a significant milestone: the long-awaited cinematic debut of Borderlands, directed by Eli Roth (Hostel, Thanksgiving). The film reimagines Pandora and its vault-obsessed inhabitants for a new audience. Despite mixed reviews, its release is a major achievement for the franchise.

With Borderlands 4 confirmed for release later this year, many new and returning fans will likely want to revisit the series' origins. To help, we've created a timeline to guide you through the Borderlands saga.

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How to play in chronological order How to play by release date

How Many Borderlands Games Are There?

There are currently seven canon Borderlands games and spin-offs, plus two smaller, non-canon titles: Borderlands: Vault Hunter Pinball and Borderlands Legends.

Where's the Best Place to Start?

The simplest answer is Borderlands 1. However, if story isn't a priority, any of the three mainline games offer a solid introduction. All three are stylistically similar and available on modern platforms. However, for those wanting to follow the overarching narrative, especially after seeing the movie, starting with the first game is recommended.

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Every Canon Borderlands Game in Chronological Order

(Mild spoilers ahead)

1. Borderlands (2009)

The original Borderlands, released in 2009, introduces Lilith, Brick, Roland, and Mordecai—four Vault Hunters embarking on a treasure hunt on the volatile planet Pandora. Their quest for the legendary Vault spirals into chaos, pitting them against the Crimson Lance militia, savage wildlife, and hordes of bandits. Its compelling gameplay loop of combat, loot acquisition, and character progression defined the looter shooter genre. The game also received four post-release expansions.

2. Borderlands: The Pre-Sequel (2014)

Developed by 2K Australia, Borderlands: The Pre-Sequel bridges the gap between the first two games. It follows Athena, Wilhelm, Nisha, and Claptrap as they search for a Vault on Elpis, Pandora's moon. This entry further develops the story of Handsome Jack, the main antagonist of Borderlands 2, showcasing his descent into villainy. Several expansions were added post-release.

3. Borderlands 2 (2012)

Borderlands 2 (2012) returns to Pandora with a new team of Vault Hunters: Maya, Axton, Salvador, and Zer0. Their quest to find a new Vault pits them against the tyrannical Handsome Jack. Larger in scope than its predecessor, Borderlands 2 is considered by many to be the best in the series, offering a compelling story, memorable combat, and a wealth of loot. Numerous post-release expansions were also released.

4. Tales From The Borderlands (2014 - 2015)

A Telltale Games episodic adventure, Tales From The Borderlands offers a story-driven experience set on Pandora. It follows Rhys, a Hyperion employee, and Fiona, a con artist, as they unexpectedly embark on a grand adventure involving a new Vault. The game's branching narrative and moral choices significantly impact the story, making it a key part of the Borderlands canon.

5. Tiny Tina's Wonderlands (2022)

Tiny Tina's Wonderlands expands the Borderlands universe into a fantasy setting. Based on the Borderlands 2 DLC, Tiny Tina's Assault on Dragon Keep, it features a sprawling fantasy kingdom, dragons, goblins, and unicorns, while retaining the core Borderlands gameplay. Four DLC expansions were released after launch.

6. Borderlands 3 (2019)

Borderlands 3 (2019) introduces a new cast of Vault Hunters: Amara, FL4K, Zane, and Moze, tasked with stopping the murderous siren twins, Troy and Tyreen. For the first time, players explore multiple planets, encountering familiar faces from previous games. The game features extensive DLC content.

7. New Tales From The Borderlands (2022)

New Tales From The Borderlands follows a new trio of protagonists—Anu, Octavio, and Fran—as they stumble upon a powerful artifact, attracting the attention of the ruthless Tediore corporation. Like its predecessor, this game focuses on a branching narrative with player choices shaping the story.

Every Borderlands Game in Release Order

Borderlands (2009) Borderlands Legends (2012) Borderlands 2 (2012) Borderlands: The Pre-Sequel (2014) Tales From The Borderlands (2014-2015) Borderlands 3 (2019) Tiny Tina's Wonderlands (2022) New Tales From The Borderlands (2022) Borderlands: Vault Hunter Pinball (2023) Borderlands 4 (2025)

What's Next For Borderlands?

Borderlands 4, slated for release on September 23, 2025, is the next major installment. Gearbox Software's acquisition by Take-Two Interactive suggests increased focus on the franchise, hinting at more Borderlands content in the future.