Borderlands 4 scraps loading screens for seamless open world

Borderlands 4 is revolutionizing the franchise with its first true seamless open world! Discover how the development team is transforming player exploration across the game's diverse regions.

Borderlands 4 World Design Marks a Radical Departure

The End of Loading Screens

The Borderlands universe has always been vast, from Pandora's bandit-ridden deserts to the lunar surface of Elpis. With Borderlands 4, Gearbox is finally removing the loading screens that previously separated these environments, creating the franchise's first truly seamless open world experience.

While earlier entries like Borderlands 2 and 3 featured expansive levels, they remained divided by loading screens. Borderlands 4 completely reinvents this approach with what Gearbox describes to Game Informer as a "Seamless World." Project producer Anthony Nicholson explains the team didn't initially aim for an open-world design but naturally progressed toward it while experimenting with fluid transitions and side content.

Gearbox CEO Randy Pitchford has cautiously avoided labeling it an "open world" game due to preconceived expectations. However, Nicholson clarifies their focus remains on immersion: "It's about keeping players engaged longer and enhancing that sense of being in the game world."

The planet Kairos exemplifies this philosophy. Early previews from outlets like indy100 highlight how "regions connect seamlessly without loading transitions - a first for the series." This technological leap became possible thanks to Unreal Engine 5, empowering Gearbox to deliver expansive landscapes, 360-degree combat arenas, and versatile movement mechanics including grappling hooks and gliders.

"We've consistently created large environments," notes world building director Jason Reiss, "but traditionally used hub-and-spoke designs with transitions between expansive and linear areas. Now we're flipping that formula to prioritize massive, dynamic spaces where players feel unstoppable."

This newfound freedom presented unique design challenges. With dramatically increased visibility, the team had to completely reimagine enemy placement and behavior. "Enemies must appear authentic from extreme distances," explains lead game designer Josh Jeffcoat, "whether you're observing them through a scope or charging into combat."

Wastelands Revival: Moxxi Returns

The Wastelands region provides a clear example of this evolved design, as showcased in Game Informer's weapon-focused cover story. Beyond its industrial ruins and scalable enemy bases, players will rediscover familiar faces like Moxxi and Zane (now NPCs). Establishments such as Moxxi's Tip Jar maintain Pandora's signature spirit while adapting to Borderlands 4's expanded scope.

While details remain limited, Kairos promises at least two additional major regions. With the September 12th launch approaching, Gearbox will likely reveal more in the coming months.

Stay updated with the latest Borderlands 4 developments in our related coverage below!