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Borderlands 4 showcased significant upgrades to its loot and co-op systems at PAX East 2025. Discover the revamped features and the decision to replace the mini-map with a compass.
Borderlands 4 PAX East Showcase
Revamped Loot and Co-op Systems
Gearbox Software, developers of Borderlands 4 (BL4), revealed major enhancements to the game’s loot and co-op mechanics during their PAX East 2025 panel on May 10. Led by CEO Randy Pitchford, the team detailed improvements to these core systems.
Building on feedback from Borderlands 3 (BL3), Gearbox has streamlined the co-op experience. Players can now join or leave sessions seamlessly without needing to reach specific checkpoints. Fast-travel options allow quick navigation to friends’ locations across BL4’s expansive world. Like BL3, the game includes level-scaling, enabling players to join any lobby with balanced levels and personalized loot pools.
The loot system has been refined to reduce complexity, ensuring players aren’t overwhelmed by item combinations. Legendary items will be less frequent but more impactful, with specific drops tied to mini-bosses and major enemies for rewarding battles. Players can replay missions and bosses via Moxxi’s Big Encore, eliminating the need to reload saves for loot farming.
Why the Mini-Map Was Replaced
At PAX East 2025, fans questioned the absence of a mini-map in BL4’s vast world. Pitchford explained that the team opted for a compass system to better suit the game’s scale. “We created a massive world where many objectives and opportunities are far apart. A mini-map isn’t ideal for navigating distant goals, but a compass guides you effectively,” he said.
Pitchford emphasized immersion, encouraging players to engage with the game world rather than a map. “Experience the game first, and you’ll see why our choices enhance exploration in this expansive world,” he added.
Gearbox is confident as they approach the game’s launch, buoyed by the Borderlands 4 State of Play and an earlier release date announcement. The studio plans to showcase more at events like Fan Fest, Bilibili World, and Gamescom, offering fans further glimpses into BL4’s offerings.
Borderlands 4 launches on September 12, 2025, for PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, Nintendo Switch 2, and PC. Stay updated with the latest details in our article below!
