Borderlands 4 Launches to Critical Acclaim, But PC Performance Woes Persist

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Borderlands 4 has officially launched, marking a significant return for the beloved looter-shooter franchise. Early reviews praise its refined gameplay, improved writing, and engaging open world, with many calling it the best entry in the series. However, the PC version is facing criticism for persistent performance issues, even on high-end hardware, echoing past launch problems for the franchise.

Key Takeaways

Critical Reception: Generally positive, with many reviewers highlighting improved combat, story, and character writing compared to previous installments.
PC Performance: Widespread reports of stuttering, frame drops, and general instability, even on powerful systems.
Metacritic Scores: The game has garnered strong scores, with some outlets giving it perfect marks, though PC performance concerns are a recurring theme.
Gameplay Evolution: Features a more seamless open world, enhanced movement mechanics, and a refined loot system.

A Triumphant Return with Caveats

Reviewers are largely in agreement that Borderlands 4 represents a significant step forward for the series. The combat is described as more fluid and satisfying than ever, bolstered by a revamped movement system that includes sliding, double-jumping, and air-dashing. The open-world design is also lauded for its natural integration, offering vast environments to explore with plenty of activities and rewards.

Furthermore, the writing and humor have seen a notable improvement. Many critics found the narrative darker yet still punctuated with the series’ signature wit, avoiding the overly cringey humor that plagued Borderlands 3. Characters, both new and returning, are praised for their depth and charm, with even Claptrap receiving commendations for his likeability.

Performance Issues Plague PC Launch

Despite the overwhelmingly positive reception for the game’s design and content, the PC version’s performance is a significant point of contention. Reports indicate that even on top-tier hardware, such as systems equipped with an RTX 5090, players are experiencing frame drops, hitches, and crashes. Minimum spec systems fare even worse, often struggling to maintain stable frame rates even at lower settings.

This mirrors a historical trend for the Borderlands series, where initial PC releases have been plagued by technical issues that are often resolved through post-launch patches. While some early patches have addressed critical failures, the overall experience for PC players remains inconsistent, leading to frustration and negative user reviews on platforms like Steam.

Metacritic Scores and Comparisons

Borderlands 4 has achieved strong Metacritic scores, with many outlets awarding it scores in the 80s and 90s. For comparison, Borderlands 2 holds a Metacritic score of 89, while Borderlands 4 currently sits around 84, tying with the original Borderlands. This places it as the second-highest-rated game in the franchise, just behind its beloved predecessor.

The Road Ahead

While the core gameplay and narrative elements of Borderlands 4 are being celebrated, the ongoing performance issues on PC are a significant drawback. Players hoping for a smooth experience may need to wait for further patches or consider hardware upgrades. Despite these technical hurdles, the game’s strong foundation suggests it will likely become a staple for fans of the looter-shooter genre.