Should I Play Borderlands 2 or 1 First?
If you’re new to the Borderlands series, deciding which game to play first can be a daunting task. With two games and several DLCs to choose from, it’s natural to wonder which one is the best starting point. In this article, we’ll explore the pros and cons of playing Borderlands 2 or 1 first, helping you make an informed decision.
Story and Setting
Before we dive into the gameplay, let’s talk about the story and setting of each game. Borderlands 1 is the original game that started the series, set on the planet of Pandora, a lawless world filled with bandits, mutants, and treasure. The story follows four playable characters as they try to find the legendary Vault, a mythical treasure that’s said to grant immense power.
Borderlands 2, on the other hand, takes place five years after the events of the first game. The story follows a new set of characters as they try to stop a new villain, Handsome Jack, from taking over the planet. The game introduces new characters, environments, and gameplay mechanics, making it a fresh and exciting experience.
Gameplay and Mechanics
Both games share similar gameplay mechanics, including shooting, loot collecting, and character progression. However, Borderlands 2 refined many of the mechanics that made the first game great, such as improved weapon customization, new character abilities, and a more cohesive storyline.
Borderlands 1 has a steeper learning curve, and the gameplay can feel more clunky compared to its sequel. However, some fans of the series appreciate the original’s more simplistic approach to gameplay, making it a great option for those who enjoy a more straightforward experience.
Order of Play
So, which game should you play first? Borderlands 2 is generally considered the better game, and playing it first will give you a more polished and refined experience. However, playing Borderlands 1 first can be beneficial if you:
- Appreciate the origin story: Playing the original game first will give you a deeper understanding of the world and its characters, making the events of Borderlands 2 more meaningful.
- Prefer a more challenging experience: Borderlands 1 is a more challenging game, with a steeper learning curve and more punishing difficulty.
- Want to experience the series’ evolution: Playing Borderlands 1 first will allow you to see how the series evolved over time, making Borderlands 2 a more enjoyable experience.
Conclusion
In conclusion, whether you play Borderlands 2 or 1 first depends on your personal preferences and what you’re looking for in a gaming experience. If you want a more refined and polished game with improved mechanics, Borderlands 2 is the way to go. However, if you appreciate the origin story, prefer a more challenging experience, or want to see the series’ evolution, Borderlands 1 is a great option.
Here’s a summary of the pros and cons of each game:
| Borderlands 1 | Borderlands 2 |
|---|---|
| Pros: | Pros: |
| Origin story | More refined gameplay mechanics |
| More challenging experience | Improved character customization |
| Evolution of the series | More cohesive storyline |
| Cons: | Cons: |
| Steeper learning curve | Less challenging experience |
| Simplistic gameplay | Less rewarding loot system |
Ultimately, the choice is yours. Both games are great additions to the Borderlands series, and playing either one first will provide an enjoyable experience.