Borderlands 4's creative director emphasizes the endgame to be a challenging journey, yet acknowledges struggling players, hinting at potential alternative solutions: "We're still considering other possibilities."
In the latest instalment of the Borderlands series, Gearbox Software has introduced the Ultimate Vault Hunter (UVH) mode, offering players a fresh opportunity to explore the world of Pandora. Creative director Graeme Timmins explains that the UVH mode is designed to provide a canvas for players to re-experience the world, level up to 50, complete UVH rank challenges, and experiment with builds using campaign mission rewards.
One of the key features of the UVH mode is its approach to fast travel. Gearbox is currently considering alternative options to facilitate player movement, aiming to enhance the overall experience.
A notable change in Borderlands 4 is the handling of Specialization points, which were account-wide in previous games, providing power boosts for players who preferred natural playthroughs. This issue has been addressed in Borderlands 4, with Specialization points now being character-specific to encourage players to specialize their individual characters.
All characters in Borderlands 4 receive Level Up moments more frequently, providing players with more opportunities to grow their characters. For those who haven't picked up the game yet, a review is available to help make an informed decision.
The UVH mode comes with a few unique aspects, such as the wipe of the map's fast travel points and landmarks. However, fast travel points unlocked during the campaign are accessible in the UVH mode, albeit hidden beneath a layer of fog that needs to be revealed.
Some players have expressed concerns about the UVH mode, particularly regarding the wipe of the map and the fact that they start with an unfinished character build. Gearbox acknowledges the end game is meant to be challenging, but is open to potential adjustments if players are seriously unhappy.
Completing the main campaign for the first time unlocks a new Specialization skill tree. The development team of Borderlands 4 has announced plans to improve endgame corporations by addressing player feedback, including balancing challenges, enhancing rewards, and refining gameplay mechanics to make the endgame experience more engaging and satisfying.
While some players find the start at level 30 to be underwhelming and suggest replaying the campaign to unlock things, others find the trade-off of skipping the story and 30 levels but starting with nothing to be off-putting. Regardless, Borderlands 4 tips are available to help players get started.
Gearbox is continually monitoring the community's reaction to the game, and changes to the UVH mode or other aspects of Borderlands 4 may be made in future updates. For those who enjoy a challenge, the UVH mode offers a new way to experience the world of Pandora.
