Should I play Borderlands before 2?

Should I Play Borderlands Before 2?

When it comes to the Borderlands series, there are many questions surrounding the best order to play the games. If you’re thinking of diving into the world of Pandora, you may be wondering whether you should play the original Borderlands before moving on to Borderlands 2. The answer is, it’s not entirely necessary, but it’s certainly recommended. In this article, we’ll explore the reasons why playing the first game before the second might be the best way to experience the series.

The Original Borderlands

The original Borderlands game was released in 2009 and was praised for its innovative gameplay, cooperative multiplayer, and rich narrative. The game follows a group of Vault Hunters, each with their own unique abilities, as they navigate the post-apocalyptic world of Pandora in search of the mythical Vault. The story is somewhat anemic, so don’t expect a gripping narrative, but the game’s action-packed gameplay more than makes up for it.

Borderlands 2

Borderlands 2, released in 2012, takes place several years after the events of the first game and introduces new characters, locations, and gameplay mechanics. The game is a significant improvement over its predecessor, with a more engaging storyline, improved visuals, and a larger player base. The game follows the new playable character, Axton, as they search for the villainous Handsome Jack, who has taken over the Borderlands universe.

Reasons to Play Borderlands Before 2

There are several reasons why playing the original Borderlands before moving on to Borderlands 2 might be the best choice:

• Character Introduction: Borderlands 1 introduces the main characters and setting, which are further developed in Borderlands 2. Playing the first game will give you a deeper understanding of the characters and their motivations, making the second game more enjoyable.
• Story Connection: While Borderlands 2 can be played without prior knowledge of the first game, understanding the backstory and events of the first game will make the second game’s story more meaningful. Major plot points and characters are referenced throughout the second game, making it a sequel that builds upon the foundation laid in the first game.
• New Gameplay Mechanics: Borderlands 2 introduces new playable characters, each with unique abilities and playstyles. Familiarity with the original game’s gameplay mechanics will make it easier to pick up the new mechanics in the second game.

Can I Skip Borderlands 1?

While playing Borderlands 1 before Borderlands 2 is recommended, it’s not strictly necessary. If you don’t care about the characters or backstory, you can still play the second game without issue. Additionally, Borderlands 1’s storyline is somewhat limited, and the game is more focused on its co-op gameplay and shooting mechanics. You can still experience the world of Pandora without playing the first game.

Conclusion

Playing Borderlands before Borderlands 2 is not necessary, but it’s recommended for fans of the series. The original game lays the groundwork for the series, and understanding the characters and backstory will make the second game more enjoyable. While you can skip the first game, it’s definitely worth playing to get the most out of the Borderlands experience.

Here’s a quick summary:

We hope this article has helped you decide whether to play Borderlands before Borderlands 2. Whether you’re a longtime fan of the series or new to the world of Pandora, we’re excited to hear your thoughts in the comments!