At PAX East 2025, Gearbox Software offered a deep dive into *Borderlands 4*, spotlighting major updates to loot systems, co-op mechanics, and the surprising removal of the mini-map. These insights were shared during an engaging panel led by Gearbox CEO Randy Pitchford and key development team members on May 10, offering fans a clearer picture of what to expect from the game’s evolving design philosophy.
Loot and Co-Op Reimagined
Since the release of *Borderlands 3*, the team has been actively listening to community feedback—using that input to refine and reshape core gameplay features in *Borderlands 4*. One of the most significant changes is the revamped co-op lobby system, designed to be more intuitive and player-friendly. Unlike previous entries, players can now jump in and out of sessions freely without being locked to specific story progression points. This flexibility allows for seamless multiplayer experiences regardless of where each player is in the game.
Fast travel to friends' locations has also been implemented to help manage the vastness of BL4's open world. Additionally, a level-scaling system ensures that players can join any lobby and dynamically match the world's current power level, keeping the experience balanced and accessible. Each player will also maintain their own individual loot pool, ensuring fairness and personal reward progression when collecting drops.
On the topic of loot, *Borderlands 4* aims to streamline the experience without sacrificing depth. The complexity scaling has been adjusted so that players aren’t overwhelmed by endless weapon combinations. While the frequency of legendary item drops has been reduced, each one feels more impactful and unique when obtained. Not all items are randomized—mini-bosses and major enemies will drop curated rewards, reinforcing the satisfaction of defeating challenging foes.
Players who enjoy grinding for gear will appreciate Moxxi’s Big Encore, which allows for mission and boss replays. This eliminates the need to reload old saves just to farm specific loot, making the grind feel more organic and rewarding.
Why There’s No Mini-Map in Borderlands 4
One of the more controversial topics addressed during the panel was the decision to remove the mini-map entirely—a choice that initially raised eyebrows given the game’s expansive world. Randy Pitchford explained that the absence of the mini-map was a deliberate design move meant to encourage exploration and immersion.
“We made a big freaking world,” Pitchford stated, “and a lot of the things you do can be local space, but a lot of the things you do or want to do are out there. A local space map isn't a good way to navigate when you're thinking about objectives and opportunities—several at the same time that might be miles away—and a compass really helps us do that.”
The new compass system replaces the traditional mini-map, guiding players toward their goals while keeping them engaged with the environment. Pitchford encouraged players to experience the game first-hand before passing judgment: “Play the game first and understand the choices we've made. I think you'll see and understand when you realize how big this world is and how playing the game in the world is better than playing the map.”
As Gearbox approaches the September 12, 2025 launch date, confidence in the project remains high. Following the recent *State of Play* showcase and the announcement of an earlier release window, the team plans to ramp up exposure through events like Fan Fest, Bilibili World, and Gamescom. Fans can look forward to even more reveals as the launch nears.
*Borderlands 4* will be available on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, Nintendo Switch 2, and PC. Stay tuned for more updates as we get closer to release day.
