In What Order Should I Play Borderlands 2?
The Borderlands series has gained a massive following over the years, and with the release of Borderlands 3, many new players are eager to dive into the world of Pandora. But with multiple games and DLCs, it can be overwhelming to decide where to start. In this article, we’ll explore the recommended order to play Borderlands 2, ensuring you get the most out of your gaming experience.
The Recommended Order
To fully appreciate the story and characters of Borderlands 2, it’s recommended to play the games in the following order:
- Borderlands (2009): This is the original game that started the series. While it’s not necessary to play it to understand Borderlands 2, it provides a solid foundation for the characters and world.
- Borderlands 2 (2012): This is the game we’ll focus on in this article. Play through the main story, and then move on to the DLCs (more on that later).
- Borderlands: The Pre-Sequel (2014): This game takes place between the events of Borderlands 2 and Borderlands 3. It’s not essential to play it immediately after Borderlands 2, but it does offer a deeper understanding of the characters and world.
- Borderlands 3 (2019): The latest installment in the series. You can play it without prior knowledge of the previous games, but playing the series in order will enhance your experience.
Why Play in This Order?
Here are some reasons why playing in this order is beneficial:
- Character development: Playing the games in order allows you to witness the characters’ growth and development. You’ll understand their motivations, relationships, and backstories, making them more relatable and engaging.
- World-building: The Borderlands series is known for its rich world-building. Playing the games in order helps you understand the world’s history, politics, and mythology, making the game world feel more immersive.
- Story coherence: The games’ stories are interconnected, and playing in order helps you follow the narrative threads. You’ll appreciate the character arcs, plot twists, and resolutions more effectively.
Playing Borderlands 2 First
If you’re new to the series, you might be wondering if it’s okay to start with Borderlands 2. The answer is yes, but keep in mind that you’ll miss out on some character development and world-building. However, you can still enjoy the game without prior knowledge of the series.
DLCs: When to Play Them
Borderlands 2 has several DLCs (downloadable content) that expand the game’s story, characters, and gameplay. Here’s when to play them:
- Main story DLCs: Play the main story DLCs (Captain Scarlett and Her Pirate’s Booty, Mr. Torgue’s Campaign of Carnage, and Tiny Tina’s Assault on Dragon Keep) after completing the main story.
- Side DLCs: Play the side DLCs (Mechromancer Pack, Psycho Pack, and Season Pass) whenever you feel like exploring new characters, gameplay mechanics, or storylines.
Tips and Tricks
Here are some additional tips to keep in mind when playing Borderlands 2:
- Choose your character wisely: Each character has unique abilities and playstyles. Experiment with different characters to find your favorite.
- coop mode: Borderlands 2 has a strong cooperative multiplayer component. Play with friends or join a random co-op match to enhance your experience.
- Difficulty levels: The game has multiple difficulty levels, from Easy to Ultimate Vault Hunter Mode. Choose the level that suits your playing style.
Conclusion
Playing Borderlands 2 in the recommended order provides the best experience for new and veteran players alike. By following the order, you’ll appreciate the characters, world-building, and story more effectively. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different characters, playstyles, and DLCs to enhance your experience. Happy gaming!