Discover the exciting updates to Borderlands 4's loot and co-op systems, as well as the reasoning behind the absence of a mini-map, discussed at PAX East 2025.

Borderlands 4 PAX East Panel

Loot and Co-Op Overhaul

During PAX East 2025 on May 10, Gearbox Software unveiled significant enhancements to the loot and co-op features of Borderlands 4 (BL4). Gearbox CEO Randy Pitchford, along with other team members, detailed how they've transformed these systems based on fan feedback since Borderlands 3.

For co-op, Gearbox has streamlined the lobby system, making it simpler for players to join and leave games at any time without needing to reach specific points in the game. Fast-travel has been improved, allowing players to quickly join friends anywhere on the expansive map of BL4. The level-scaling system from BL3 returns, ensuring that players can join any lobby and their levels will adjust to match the world they're entering. This extends to loot, where each player will have a personalized pool of rewards.

Regarding loot, BL4 introduces a refined complexity scaling to prevent players from feeling overwhelmed by the sheer number of combinations. The frequency of legendary items will decrease, but these items will be more impactful and rewarding. Not all loot will be randomized; specific drops from mini-bosses and major enemies will provide targeted rewards, enhancing the satisfaction of defeating these foes. Additionally, the Moxxi’s Big Encore feature allows players to replay missions and bosses for loot farming without the need to reload previous saves.

Mini-Map Removal Explained

The absence of a mini-map in BL4, given its vast world, was a hot topic at PAX East 2025. Pitchford encouraged players to experience the game firsthand to appreciate the design choices made for the HUD. He explained, "We've created an expansive world where your objectives and opportunities can be spread out over miles. A local mini-map isn't the best way to navigate this; a compass system helps players better manage multiple objectives at once."

Pitchford emphasized the importance of playing the game rather than focusing on the map, asserting that the new compass system will enhance the exploration experience. "Once you play and see the scale of this world, you'll understand why engaging with the game itself is more rewarding than navigating a mini-map," he added.

As the release of Borderlands 4 approaches, Gearbox is confident in their progress. Following the Borderlands 4 State of Play and the announcement of an earlier release date, the studio plans to engage fans further with events like Fan Fest, Bilibili World, Gamescom, and more, to showcase the game's features.

Borderlands 4 is scheduled for release on September 12, 2025, on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, Nintendo Switch 2, and PC. Stay tuned for more updates and details on the game!