Games Like Borderlands

The Borderlands series has carved out a unique niche in the gaming world with its blend of post-apocalyptic settings, dark humor, and most importantly, its cooperative gameplay and vast array of loot. If you're looking for games that capture the essence of Borderlands, whether it's the action, the RPG elements, or the sheer fun of exploring and shooting your way through hordes of enemies, there are several titles worth exploring. The draw of games like Borderlands often lies in their ability to offer something for everyone: engaging storylines, complex characters, extensive character customization, and a seemingly endless supply of weapons and gear to discover.
Key Points
- Destiny 2 offers a similar blend of first-person shooter action and MMO elements, with a large open world to explore and a variety of cooperative activities.
- Warframe provides a free-to-play alternative with a sci-fi setting, a vast array of playable characters, and a huge selection of guns and gear.
- Tom Clancy's The Division 2 combines third-person shooter action with RPG elements and a strong focus on cooperative play in a post-apocalyptic Washington D.C.
- Outriders offers a cooperative RPG shooter experience with a dark fantasy setting, deep character customization, and an emphasis on storytelling.
- Warhammer 40,000: Darktide brings the grim darkness of the far future to life with intense action, a variety of playable characters, and a strong cooperative gameplay focus.
Games with Similar Action and Loot

Games that emulate the fast-paced action and the thrill of the hunt for better loot found in Borderlands are numerous, but a few stand out for their depth and engagement. Destiny 2, developed by Bungie, is a prime example. It offers a first-person shooter experience with MMO elements, a large open world, and a variety of cooperative activities including raids and patrols. The game’s season model ensures that there’s always something new to look forward to, whether it’s a fresh storyline, new weapons, or challenging activities.
Free-to-Play Alternatives
For those looking for a free-to-play experience that captures some of the essence of Borderlands, Warframe is an excellent choice. Developed by Digital Extremes, Warframe offers a sci-fi setting, a vast array of playable characters (known as Warframes), each with unique abilities, and a huge selection of guns and gear. The game is constantly updated with new content, including quests, characters, and game modes, making it a virtually endless experience for players.
Another notable mention is Torchlight III, an action RPG that, while not directly comparable to Borderlands in setting, offers a similar feel in terms of its fast-paced combat and extensive character customization. The game's colorful graphics and variety of playable classes make it an attractive option for fans of the genre.
Game | Setting | Notable Features |
---|---|---|
Destiny 2 | Sci-Fi | Cooperative play, MMO elements, large open world |
Warframe | Sci-Fi | Free-to-play, variety of playable characters, extensive customization |
Tom Clancy's The Division 2 | Post-Apocalyptic | Third-person shooter, RPG elements, cooperative play |

Cooperative Play and RPG Elements

For players who enjoy the cooperative aspect of Borderlands, Tom Clancy’s The Division 2 is a great option. This third-person shooter combines action with RPG elements, set in a post-apocalyptic Washington D.C. The game emphasizes cooperative play, with activities ranging from story missions to the challenging raids, all designed to be tackled with a team. The Division 2 also features a deep character customization system, allowing players to craft their ideal build for tackling the game’s challenges.
Story-Driven Experiences
For those looking for a story-driven experience similar to Borderlands, Outriders is a notable title. Developed by People Can Fly, Outriders offers a cooperative RPG shooter experience with a dark fantasy setting, deep character customization, and an emphasis on storytelling. The game’s narrative is designed to be played through with a team, making it an excellent choice for those who enjoy the social aspect of gaming.
Conclusion and Future Outlook
The landscape of games similar to Borderlands is rich and diverse, offering something for every type of player. From the fast-paced action of Destiny 2 to the free-to-play adventure of Warframe, and the cooperative focus of Tom Clancy’s The Division 2 and Outriders, the options are endless. As the gaming industry continues to evolve, with advancements in technology and shifts in player preferences, it will be exciting to see how these games and their successors adapt and innovate, offering new experiences that build upon the foundations laid by series like Borderlands.
What makes a game similar to Borderlands?
+Games similar to Borderlands often feature a combination of action-packed gameplay, RPG elements, a strong focus on cooperative play, and a large array of weapons and gear to collect and customize.
Is Destiny 2 suitable for solo players?
+While Destiny 2 is designed with cooperative play in mind, it is entirely possible to play through the game solo. However, some activities, like raids, require a team.
What is the appeal of free-to-play games like Warframe?
+Free-to-play games like Warframe offer an accessible entry point for new players, with the ability to play without an initial purchase. They also often feature regular updates with new content, ensuring the game stays fresh and exciting.