This video offers a sponsored gameplay preview of Borderlands 4, focusing on the PC version's early stages. The presenter details the game's graphical settings (1440p, DLSS Quality) and system specifications (RTX 5090, AMD 9950X3D), while showcasing the initial character selection and a prison break sequence. Key elements introduced include combat mechanics, weapon variety, skill progression, and new traversal tools like a grapple hook and glide pack. The narrative delves into the main antagonist, the "Timekeeper," and the player's connection with the "Crimson Resistance" and its eccentric leader, Clap Trap. The video also highlights side missions, a boss fight, and the acquisition of a new vehicle, providing a comprehensive first look at the game's world, characters, and evolving gameplay.
Exploring Borderlands 4: A First Look at the PC Gameplay and Story
0:00 Introduction & Technical Specs: The video begins with a sponsored message from 2K and a look at Borderlands 4 running on PC at 1440p with DLSS Quality, Frame Gen off, Reflex low latency on, and most settings on high. The system features an RTX 5090 and AMD 9950X3D. The game's release date is September 12th on PS5, Xbox Series, and PC.
0:40 Character Selection: The player is presented with four Vault Hunters: Vex (Siren), Ammon (Forge Knight), Rafa (Exo-Soldier), and Harlow (Gravitar). Rafa, the Exo-Soldier, is chosen for the playthrough.
1:09 Prison Break Begins: Rafa, with the help of R.J. (a Vault Hunter from the Crimson Resistance), escapes from an Order prison on the planet Chyros. The initial gameplay involves basic shooting, looting "green boxes," and using "rep kits" for healing.
2:40 Introduction to The Order and Timekeeper: R.J. explains that the prison is run by "The Order" and introduces the main antagonist, the "Timekeeper," who uses "bolts" in prisoners' necks to control them. R.J. warns against trying to remove the bolt due to the risk of madness or death.
6:38 Grapple Grabber & Escape Route: R.J. provides Rafa with a "grapple grabber" for navigating the environment, leading to a temporary separation as they escape.
20:01 Encountering Clap Trap: Rafa meets Clap Trap, the "last vestige of the Crimson Resistance," who informs Rafa that R.J. did not survive. Clap Trap, despite R.J.'s death, "promotes" Rafa to be the "new R.J." and outlines a mission to recruit more members.
23:15 Skill Tree & Glide Pack: Rafa gains a level, unlocking the ability to choose an action skill (an "arm cannon" is selected). Clap Trap tasks Rafa with acquiring a "glide pack" from a ripper camp to reach a broadcast tower.
35:01 Recruitment Broadcast & New Allies: Rafa activates the broadcast tower, allowing Clap Trap to transmit a chaotic recruitment message. This message is answered by the "Outbounders," who are under attack and request aid.
39:25 Timekeeper's Taunt: The Timekeeper appears, revealing that he was controlling R.J. and caused his death, further taunting Rafa.
40:30 Side Mission: Wild Horn Herd: Rafa accepts a side mission to retrieve "Wild Horn Herd" animals being abducted by "men in metal." It is discovered that these animals are intelligent and are being studied by The Order.
46:15 Boss Fight: Poison Ivan: Rafa confronts and defeats a mini-boss named Poison Ivan, gaining new loot and securing more recruits for the Crimson Resistance.
52:58 Joining the Outbounders & Vehicle Unlock: Rafa joins the Outbounders at their bunker, learning about a secret weapon Saul possesses. As a reward for helping, Rafa receives a "Digi Runner" vehicle, which can be spawned almost anywhere.
54:30 Video Conclusion: The video ends with a demonstration of the new vehicle and a final reminder of the game's release details.