Borderlands 4 Brings RPG Evolution to the Shooter Genre

Since the first Borderlands in 2009, the series has stood out by letting players experiment with different Vault Hunters in every playthrough. Now, Borderlands 4, launching on September 12, takes that freedom to the next level with the most ambitious skill tree system ever designed for the franchise.

Meet Amon the Forge Knight: A Unique Vault Hunter

One of the new characters grabbing attention is Amon the Forge Knight.

• At first glance, he looks like a typical brute built for smashing enemies

• The twist: Amon uses cybernetic drones to forge weapons mid-battle

• Inspired by early concepts like nanobot users and pseudo-Iron Man, refined into a sci-fi Viking warrior

• His backstory as a cult survivor gives him the aura of a gentle giant with a spiritual side

Amon blends raw strength, advanced technology, and philosophical depth, making him one of the most complex Vault Hunters in the series.

A Deeper and More Flexible Skill Tree System

Gearbox has redefined the Borderlands formula with a skill tree packed with extensive branching options, allowing players to create highly personalized builds.

Amon’s three main paths include:

• Onslaught → melee-focused combat with HP regeneration

• Scourge → massive damage using heavy weapons and grenades

• Crucible → ranged combat with powerful area-of-effect attacks

Additionally, there are unique sub-paths, such as a drone summon build, offering even more variety in playstyles.

Even more impressive, each Vault Hunter has over 80 passive skills—a number that surpasses the combined total of all previous Borderlands games.

RPG Inspiration from Baldur’s Gate 3 and Path of Exile

According to Nick Thurston, lead character designer, the philosophy behind this system draws inspiration from classic RPGs like Baldur’s Gate 3 and Path of Exile.

The goal is to ensure that every player can craft a truly personal playstyle. Instead of unlocking every ability automatically, players must commit to skill paths that define their build identity.

As a result, even when playing the same character, each run can feel entirely different.

Borderlands 4 Aims to Be the Definitive RPG Shooter

For veterans who have replayed earlier Borderlands titles countless times for co-op sessions, this system offers a refreshing change: every playthrough feels unique instead of repetitive.

Imagine a squad of four Amons, each with a different build, all serving distinct roles in combat. That’s the kind of depth Borderlands 4 is aiming for.

With its combination of new Vault Hunters, the deepest skill tree system to date, and a stronger RPG foundation, Borderlands 4 looks set to become Gearbox’s ultimate looter-shooter with true RPG soul.