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Borderlands 3

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of Borderlands 3
Item: Borderlands 3
Author: MonsterCritic Editorial Team

2019

GenresAdventure, Action, Third Person Perspective, Shooter, Comedy, RPG, Single Player, Multiplayer, First Person Perspective

AvailableSep 13, 2019

PlatformPC, Xbox One, Xbox Series X, PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4

DeveloperGearbox Software

Overview

The original shooter-looter returns, packing bazillions of guns and a mayhem-fueled adventure! Blast through new worlds and enemies as one of four new Vault Hunters. Play solo or with friends to take on insane enemies, score loads of loot and save your home from the most ruthless cult leaders in the galaxy.

Elsewhere

8.0

Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

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Story and Narrative

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TL;DR

Borderlands 3 mixes nostalgia and humor with familiar characters, earning praise for engaging twists and exploration across planets. However, many critics slam its execution as simplistic and lacking depth, with weak villains and a predictable plot that overshadows the storytelling potential. While enjoyable for fans, the game ultimately falls short of delivering a cohesive narrative, leaving a mixed reception.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

28%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

56%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

16%

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the story and narrative.

The opinions on the story of Borderlands 3 reflect a mix of positive sentiments, particularly regarding its engagement with familiar characters and the humor that has long been a staple of the series. Critics like IGN and Vandal praise the narrative for its entertaining twists and the inclusion of both new and returning characters, which adds depth to the storytelling experience. Additionally, some reviewers, such as PlaySense and LaPS4, highlight the engaging missions and unexpected plot developments that keep players entertained throughout the game, suggesting that the narrative can be enjoyable despite its shortcomings. The game also expands the universe across various planets, which adds a sense of adventure and exploration that some critics found appealing. However, a significant number of reviewers express dissatisfaction with the story's execution, labeling it as simplistic and lacking depth. Critics like Quarter to Three and Critical Hit describe the writing and humor as forced and grating, detracting from the overall experience. Many reviewers, including GameCrate and Hardcore Gamer, point out that the main antagonists, the Calypso Twins, are weak compared to previous villains, resulting in a narrative that feels toothless and unoriginal. Furthermore, several critics, such as PC Gamer and Game Revolution, mention that the plot is generic and predictable, with little effort put into developing a compelling storyline or meaningful character arcs. The overall consensus among critics suggests that while Borderlands 3 offers moments of enjoyment and nostalgia for fans of the series, it ultimately falls short of delivering a cohesive and engaging narrative. Many reviews indicate that the humor, which is a defining characteristic of the franchise, often overshadows the potential for deeper storytelling, leading to a mixed reception. Critics like GameSpot and Trusted Reviews note that although there are some engaging elements, the story frequently feels stale and lacks the originality that fans might expect from a sequel. In summary, while Borderlands 3 has its merits, particularly in terms of character continuity and humor, the narrative struggles to rise above the criticisms of being shallow and predictable.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

Borderlands 3 delivers thrilling gameplay with praised gunplay, diverse weapons, and new traversal mechanics that enhance movement and combat. Critics love the character customization and cooperative multiplayer aspects. However, it suffers from repetitiveness, tedious quests, and a lack of enemy variety, leading to some critiques of stagnation. Overall, it's an engaging experience for fans, balancing fun mechanics with notable shortcomings.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

85%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

15%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the gameplay mechanics.

The gameplay of Borderlands 3 has generally been met with enthusiastic praise from critics, highlighting its engaging core mechanics that revolve around shooting and looting. Many reviewers, including GamingTrend and Trusted Reviews, commended the improved gunplay and the vast array of unique weapons available, which contribute to a satisfying combat experience. The introduction of new traversal mechanics, such as sliding and climbing, has been positively noted by critics like Forbes and IGN, enhancing the fluidity of movement and combat. Furthermore, the character customization options and diverse skill trees allow players to craft unique builds, making gameplay feel fresh and dynamic, as emphasized by Gameplanet and XGN. The cooperative multiplayer aspect is also a significant draw, with several critics noting that it enhances the overall experience, making it more enjoyable when played with friends. However, despite the positive feedback, there are notable criticisms regarding the gameplay's repetitiveness and lack of depth. Critics such as Slant Magazine and GameCrate pointed out that while the core mechanics remain enjoyable, they can become tedious over time due to repetitive quest design and combat encounters. RPG Fan echoed this sentiment, mentioning a lack of enemy variety and tedious boss fights that detract from the overall experience. Additionally, some reviewers like Quarter to Three criticized the loot management system and character progression, suggesting that these aspects could have been better implemented to enhance player engagement. The general consensus among critics is that while the gameplay is fun, it does not innovate significantly from previous titles, leading to a feeling of stagnation in certain areas. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Borderlands 3 offers a robust and entertaining gameplay experience, particularly for fans of the series. While there are valid concerns about repetitiveness and a lack of tactical depth, the majority of reviews highlight the game's strengths, including its engaging gunplay, character customization, and cooperative elements. Critics like Digital Chumps and GameSpew reflect the positive sentiment by noting that the game provides an addictive shooting and looting experience, despite its shortcomings. Ultimately, Borderlands 3 successfully retains the essence of its predecessors while introducing enough new features to keep players engaged, making it a worthwhile addition to the franchise.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Borderlands 3 boasts a vibrant cel-shaded art style and enhanced visuals thanks to Unreal Engine 4, impressing many critics with its diverse environments. However, technical issues like graphical glitches, texture pop-ins, and performance drops—especially on older consoles—mar the experience. While the game retains its signature style, reviewers argue it lacks significant innovation over Borderlands 2, leaving it colorful yet flawed.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

60%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

38%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the graphics and visual design.

The overall sentiment regarding the graphics and visual design of Borderlands 3 is mixed, with several critics praising the game for its vibrant and distinct art style. Many reviewers, such as Game Informer and God is a Geek, highlight the game's colorful cel-shaded aesthetic, which remains a hallmark of the series. Critics like PC Gamer and Vandal commend the visual improvements made with Unreal Engine 4, noting enhanced textures, lighting, and character models that contribute to a more engaging visual experience. The diverse environments across different planets, as noted by New York Daily News and Cheat Code Central, also add to the game's visual appeal, showcasing a variety of landscapes and unique designs that enhance exploration and immersion. However, despite the positive aspects, a significant number of reviewers point out various technical issues that mar the visual experience. Critics from Telegraph and RPG Fan mention graphical glitches, texture pop-in, and performance issues that detract from the overall enjoyment of the game. Many reviews, including those from Worth Playing and Easy Allies, echo concerns about slow texture loading and frame rate drops, particularly on consoles like the PS4 and Xbox One. Some critics, such as Slant Magazine and We Got This Covered, argue that the game does not significantly improve upon its predecessor, Borderlands 2, and that it relies too heavily on its established visual style without offering substantial innovation. The consensus among critics appears to be that while Borderlands 3 maintains its signature comic book art style and features vibrant and varied environments, it is hindered by technical shortcomings that affect performance and overall visual fidelity. Many reviewers, including Hardcore Gamer and Game Revolution, acknowledge the game's visual upgrades but also emphasize that issues like graphical glitches and slow loading times can detract from the experience. Ultimately, the game is seen as a colorful and visually engaging title that still has room for improvement in terms of technical performance and innovation within its visual design.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

Borderlands 3's sound design and music receive praise for immersive gun sounds and an engaging soundtrack, especially on PS5. Critics highlight the orchestral elements and chaotic atmosphere that elevate gameplay. However, issues like over-the-top voice acting, repetitive character shouts, and some sound quality flaws detract from the experience. While the audio enhances the game, significant improvements are needed in dialogue and voice work to truly elevate it.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

58%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

36%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the music and sound design.

The sound design and music of Borderlands 3 have garnered a generally positive reception from critics, highlighting several strengths that enhance the overall gaming experience. Many reviewers praised the sound design for its immersive quality, particularly in relation to gun sounds, which were frequently described as impactful and satisfying. Critics like Hardcore Gamer noted that the sound design benefits from advanced audio features on PS5, while GameSpot emphasized the incredible theme music accompanying boss battles. The soundtrack has also received acclaim, with Game Revolution and PSX Extreme praising its orchestral elements and engaging compositions that enhance gameplay. Additionally, the variety of music and sound effects, as noted by critics from Cubed3 and Vandal, contributes to the chaotic atmosphere that the series is known for. However, the reviews also highlighted several notable criticisms regarding the sound design and music in Borderlands 3. Several critics pointed out issues with voice acting, particularly the over-the-top performances and repetitive shouting from characters, which some found irritating. For instance, Press Start Australia and VG247 commented on the lack of quality in the voice work, suggesting that it detracted from the overall experience. Furthermore, Digital Chumps mentioned sound quality issues stemming from a hotfix that affected audio effects, while RPG Fan described the music as forgettable and intrusive, leading to a diminished enjoyment of the dialogue. These criticisms indicate that while the sound design has its strengths, it is marred by inconsistencies and elements that do not resonate well with all players. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests that while Borderlands 3 excels in certain aspects of sound design and music, particularly regarding gun sounds and the soundtrack's engagement, there are significant flaws that impact the experience. The positive feedback from critics like GameGrin and Easy Allies underscores the potential of the audio elements to enhance gameplay, yet the recurring complaints about voice acting and dialogue quality, as highlighted by Cultured Vultures and PlaySense, reveal a divide in player satisfaction. Thus, while the game offers a solid audio experience, it is clear that improvements could be made, especially in the realm of character dialogue and voice work, to fully realize its potential.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

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TL;DR

Borderlands 3's voice acting earns praise for its humor and engaging character performances, with standout mentions for fan favorites like Zane and Amara, and commendations for the quality of Spanish voice acting. However, critics also highlight flaws such as poor pacing, overwhelming performances, and inconsistent character portrayals, particularly among new villains. The overall reception is mixed, celebrating the series' comedic tone while acknowledging significant shortcomings that detract from the experience.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

47%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

47%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the voice acting.

The voice acting in Borderlands 3 has received a generally positive reception from critics, highlighting the series' signature humor and character-driven performances. Many reviewers, such as Hardcore Gamer and Cheat Code Central, noted that the voice acting retains the quality seen in previous installments, contributing significantly to the overall experience. Critics like Slant Magazine and IGN praised the outstanding and over-the-top performances, which align well with the game's comedic tone. Additionally, the Spanish voice acting was specifically commended by LaPS4 for its exceptional quality, showcasing a diverse range of voices that enhanced the game's charm. Overall, the commitment of voice actors to their roles was a recurring theme, with many characters, including fan favorites like Zane and Amara, receiving specific praise for their engaging portrayals. However, not all feedback was positive, as several critics pointed out significant flaws in the voice acting. Game Revolution and VG247 criticized certain performances as overwhelming and poorly paced, with instances of dialogue cutting out and characters speaking over each other, detracting from the overall experience. Others, like VideoGamer and Trusted Reviews, highlighted issues with immature humor and character depth, suggesting that some characters lacked the compelling traits that made previous installments memorable. The inconsistency in character portrayals, particularly with new villains, was noted by Cultured Vultures and AusGamers, leading to a perception that the voice acting sometimes fell short of expectations. The overall consensus among critics reflects a mixed sentiment towards the voice acting in Borderlands 3. While many praised the humor and character consistency, as seen in the reviews from Destructoid and GameSpot, there were notable criticisms regarding certain characters' portrayals and the overall delivery of dialogue. Critics like Wccftech and Game Rant pointed out that while the cast is strong, some performances can be grating or distracting due to changes in voice actors. Ultimately, the voice acting in Borderlands 3 appears to be a double-edged sword, celebrated for its humor and charm but also critiqued for pacing issues and character depth, leading to a varied reception across the board.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

Borderlands 3 shines on PC and PS5, boasting smooth gameplay and improved performance. However, it's riddled with severe technical issues on PS4 and Xbox One, including disappearing items, frame-rate drops, and game-breaking bugs. Critics agree that while next-gen upgrades help, the game still needs urgent patches to fix widespread problems, leaving many players frustrated.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

17%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

51%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

32%

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the technical performance.

In analyzing the technical performance of Borderlands 3 across various gaming platforms, it is evident that the PC version has garnered a mix of positive feedback. Critics like Destructoid and Forbes noted that the game runs smoothly with minor glitches, indicating a generally polished experience. Additionally, Vandal highlighted improved performance over previous titles, suggesting that the game has made strides in technical robustness. On the PS5, reviewers such as Hardcore Gamer and GameSpew praised the significant improvements in loading times and overall performance, with smooth frame rates and enhanced visuals being particularly noted. This indicates that the next-gen upgrade has positively impacted the gameplay experience. However, the negatives associated with Borderlands 3's technical performance are quite pronounced, particularly on the PS4 and Xbox One. Many critics, including Daily Star and Critical Hit, reported a plethora of issues such as disappearing guns, severe frame-rate problems, and game-breaking bugs that significantly hinder gameplay. On Xbox One, both Twinfinite and Game Rant echoed similar sentiments, describing significant technical issues that detract from the overall experience, including quest bugs and crashes. The PC version, while generally better, is not without its faults, as RPG Fan and GameCrate pointed out frequent crashes and stability issues that mar the experience even on high-spec machines. The overall consensus among critics is that while Borderlands 3 shows promise and has made improvements on next-gen consoles, it is plagued by technical issues that affect gameplay across all platforms. The PS4 and Xbox One versions are particularly criticized for their instability, with many reviewers noting that these issues can be game-breaking. Critics like Push Square and We Got This Covered emphasized that online co-op play suffers from significant frame rate issues, which are detrimental to the multiplayer experience. Despite some positive comments regarding the PC version's performance, the overwhelming feedback suggests that the game needs further patches and updates to address the myriad of technical problems that have been reported, leaving many players frustrated.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

Borderlands 3 offers solid replay value with diverse gameplay, character classes, and cooperative modes, praised by many critics. However, concerns arise over repetitive missions and shallow endgame content, leading to a mixed reception. While customization and exploration keep players engaged, the lack of fresh challenges post-campaign may deter long-term enjoyment. Overall, it’s a fun ride, but some players might find themselves craving more depth.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

63%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

33%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the replay value.

The opinions on the replay value of Borderlands 3 reveal a mix of enthusiasm and appreciation for its diverse gameplay elements. Many critics, such as DualShockers and Destructoid, highlight the game's substantial replay value stemming from its character progression systems, multiple character classes, and modes like True Vault Hunter and Mayhem Mode. The cooperative gameplay aspect is also praised, with critics like USgamer and PlayStation Universe noting that playing with friends enhances the overall experience. Furthermore, the variety of side quests and challenges, as mentioned by Gaming Nexus and Attack of the Fanboy, contributes to a sense of exploration and engagement that keeps players returning for more. On the other hand, several reviewers express concerns about the game's replay value being limited by its repetitive mission design and a lack of engaging content post-campaign. Critics like PC Gamer and AusGamers point out that the endgame feels shallow and that the linear story does not provide enough incentive for multiple playthroughs. The repetitive nature of quests is a common theme, with Slant Magazine and Hardcore Gamer noting that while the core gameplay loop is enjoyable, the lack of differentiation in environments and mission structure can lead to diminishing returns on replayability. This sentiment is echoed by others, including Video Chums and Cultured Vultures, who feel that the game's design may deter players from returning. Overall, the consensus among critics leans towards a mixed but generally positive view of Borderlands 3's replay value. While many acknowledge the game's potential for enjoyment through character customization and varied gameplay modes, there is a notable caution regarding the repetitiveness of missions and the limited endgame content. Critics like Guardian and IGN emphasize that while there is substantial content to explore, the experience may not be as compelling for those seeking new challenges after the initial playthrough. Ultimately, while the game offers a wealth of options for replayability, the execution of its content may leave some players wanting more.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

74%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

25%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing all available reviews that scored and critiqued the game.

The overall sentiment regarding Borderlands 3 is a blend of appreciation for its engaging gameplay and criticism for its shortcomings. Many reviewers, such as God is a Geek and GameSpot, highlight the game's strong gunplay, addictive combat, and the vast array of weapons available, which contribute to an enjoyable experience. Additionally, New York Daily News and PlaySense commend the game for building on the strengths of its predecessors, emphasizing its rich content, humor, and cooperative play options. Critics like Easy Allies and Cubed3 also note that while the game may not innovate significantly, it still delivers a fun and chaotic experience that resonates well with fans of the franchise. Conversely, a significant number of critics point out the technical issues and lack of innovation as major drawbacks. Reviewers like Quarter to Three and Cultured Vultures express disappointment in the game's design choices and technical performance, suggesting that these flaws overshadow its otherwise strong gameplay. Critics such as Daily Star and Metro GameCentral echo this sentiment, noting a sense of stagnation in humor and storytelling, which detracts from the overall experience. The shallow story and repetitive elements are also highlighted by Game Rant and Wccftech, suggesting that while the game is enjoyable, it fails to reach its full potential due to these shortcomings. In summary, the consensus among critics is that Borderlands 3 is a fun and engaging title that successfully caters to fans of the series, but it is marred by technical issues and a lack of significant innovation. While many reviewers, including Destructoid and IGN, praise the game for its enjoyable mechanics and content, others like GamingTrend and TheSixthAxis emphasize the need for improvement in storytelling and technical performance. Ultimately, Borderlands 3 is seen as a solid entry in the franchise, but one that leaves room for growth and evolution in future installments.

TL;DR

Borderlands 3 serves up thrilling gameplay and a wealth of weapons that fans love, but it stumbles with technical flaws and stagnant storytelling. While many praise its addictive combat and humor, critics lament its lack of innovation and repetitive elements. It's a solid but flawed addition to the franchise, leaving much to be desired for future titles.

MONSTER

Reviews

193 reviews found

100

Impulsegamer

Xbox One

Sep 25, 2019