Borderlands 4 Panel Highlights Changes to Loot, Co-op, and Mini-Map at PAX East

During PAX East 2025, Gearbox Software unveiled significant enhancements to the loot and co-op systems in Borderlands 4 (BL4). The panel, led by Gearbox CEO Randy Pitchford and other team members, provided detailed insights into these changes and explained the rationale behind the absence of a mini-map in the game.

Borderlands 4 PAX East Panel

Loot and Co-Op Overhaul

Gearbox Software has taken fan feedback from Borderlands 3 (BL3) to heart, using it to refine the co-op and loot systems in BL4. The new co-op lobby system allows for seamless player connectivity, enabling players to join or leave the game at any time without needing to reach specific game points. Fast-travel has been streamlined, allowing players to quickly join their friends anywhere on the expansive map.

Similar to BL3, BL4 will feature a level-scaling system, ensuring that players can join any lobby and seamlessly match their level with the game world. This extends to the loot system, where each player will have their own pool of rewards, enhancing the personalized gaming experience.

In terms of loot, BL4 will simplify complexity scaling to prevent players from feeling overwhelmed by the myriad of combinations. The number of legendary items will be reduced, but their impact and power will be significantly enhanced, making each drop feel more special. Not all loot will be randomized; specific rewards from mini-bosses and major enemies will provide a sense of achievement. Additionally, players can grind through BL4’s Moxxi’s Big Encore, replaying missions and bosses without the need to reload previous saves for loot farming.

Mini-Map Removal Explained

At the PAX East 2025 panel, Gearbox addressed the absence of a mini-map in BL4. Randy Pitchford emphasized the importance of experiencing the game’s vast world firsthand. He explained, "We made a big freaking world, and a lot of the things you do can be local space, but a lot of the things you do or want to do are out there, and a local space map is not a good way to navigate when you're thinking about objectives and opportunities - several at the same time that might be miles away - and a compass really helps us do that."

Pitchford’s vision is for players to engage with the game environment rather than fixating on a map. The new compass system is designed to assist players in navigating the expansive world, encouraging them to explore and enjoy the journey. He stated, "Play the game first and understand the choices we've made, and I think you'll see and understand when you realize how big this world is and how playing the game in the world is better than playing the map."

As Gearbox gears up for the launch of BL4, they are confident in their direction following the Borderlands 4 State of Play and the recent announcement of an earlier release date. The studio plans to engage fans further through events such as Fan Fest, Bilibili World, Gamescom, and more, showcasing the exciting features of BL4.

Borderlands 4 is set to release on September 12, 2025, for PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, Nintendo Switch 2, and PC. Stay updated with the latest news and developments by checking out our related articles.