Creative director Graeme Timmins also discusses catering to different character fantasies and retaining depth without too much complexity.
Gearbox Software finally announced Borderlands 4 at Gamescom Opening Night Live, teasing a potential return for Lilith and other psycho mask-related shenanigans. While it released some new concept art during PAX West, chief creative officer Randy Varnell confirmed four “brand new” Vault Hunters during the Main Theater Show (transcription by Games Radar).
It’s not all that surprising, considering every title has offered four new playable characters. However, as with previous entries, Gearbox is examining the power fantasies it wants to cater to for its players while still keeping things fresh.
As creative director Graeme Timmins explains, “When we look at the Vault Hunters, the first thing that we always try to look at is ‘what are some fundamental promises and fantasies that players might have that we want to explore?’. Some examples might be – starting way back on Borderlands 1 – like a soldier fantasy. Straightforward, FPS-style character, carried on to Axton. Another premise might be our Sirens. Our Sirens speak to a mage or sorcerer fantasy in our very sci-fi world.
“Our Sirens have been very ranged in some of their abilities, but then in Borderlands 3, we wanted to flip that concept from what Maya was to Amara. She went more physical and melee-based. So even though we have some similar promises, we think it’s important to switch it up and not do just rote designs, game to game.”
Timmins also feels that the RPG side of the title is “so important,” and the team is looking to add depth without making things too complicated. “I always look at our characters and [try to] understand, between their action skills, how much management might be happening when you press the action skill button. Is it fire and forget? That’s great – it’s a simple return on your investment. Or to get the most value out of this character, do you have to manage your action skill?”
Borderlands 4 is in development for Xbox Series X/S, PS5, and PC. It doesn’t have a release date but is planned to launch in 2025.
