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Borderlands 2 vs 3: why many think 3 is superior

Borderlands Showdown | Gamers Split Over 2 vs 3's Appeal

By

Emily Thompson

May 18, 2025, 11:51 AM

Edited By

Carlos Gomez

Updated

May 19, 2025, 03:39 AM

2 minutes of duration

A side-by-side view of Borderlands 2 and Borderlands 3 gameplay highlighting their differences, focusing on missions and weapons.
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The debate surrounding the Borderlands franchise continues, as fans passionately argue on forums over why many consider Borderlands 3 a superior game to Borderlands 2. This ongoing clash touches on gameplay mechanics, mission design, and the overall gaming experience.

Insights from Gamers

Opinions vary widely among players. One pointed out that to progress effectively in Borderlands 2, itโ€™s crucial to engage in side missions: "It is intentional that you are not supposed to one shot all the campaign; try to be same level or 1 level below the campaign mission." This sentiment highlights the need for exploration to ensure a smoother game flow.

On the other hand, frustrations with Borderlands 2 persist. As another gamer exclaimed, "All you do is grind; I have done 100+ playthroughs of BL2. Never, not once, did I have to grind so much." Many feel that weapon evaluations can be too cumbersome, leading to dissatisfaction with gameplay.

Key Themes Emerge

Three main issues stand out in this discussion:

  • Grinding and Gameplay Flow: Some players criticize Borderlands 2 for its grind-heavy gameplay, stating it can be exhausting to find decent weapons, especially when enemies are 2-3 levels higher.

  • Exploration vs. Frustration: While some gamers appreciate side missions for their depth, many complain about the lack of appealing content in Borderlands 2 compared to Borderlands 3.

  • Mission Difficulty: Several participants underscore the challenge level in Borderlands 2, labeling it as often overwhelmingly punishing. As one noted, "It removes any satisfaction you had from getting that gun."

"Having 5-8 legendaries isnโ€™t fun. It makes everything feel ordinary."

Community Sentiments

The community shows a mix of emotions. Many argue that Borderlands 3 enhances accessibility and offers fresh experiences, while others long for the thrill and challenge of Borderlands 2 missions. One participant humorously warned, "Ohhhh youโ€™re in for a shitstorm here!"

Key Insights

  • โญ Diverse Perspectives: Fans remain split on the superior title between the two games.

  • ๐Ÿ”„ Grinding Fatigue: Players express exhaustion over hunting for unique weapons in Borderlands 2.

  • ๐Ÿ’ญ Engagement: The depth of challenges in Borderlands 2 remains engaging for many, contrasting with the ease preferred by newer gamers in Borderlands 3.

As discussions unfold, the impact of nostalgia and gameplay preferences reveals a complex picture of fan loyalty. The future holds uncertainty regarding how developers may address these diverging views.