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Why are people saying borderlands 3 is bad?

Gamers React | First Legendary Drops Spark Debate on Borderlands 3's Reception

By

Jennifer Lee

Jun 19, 2025, 10:47 AM

Edited By

Clara Evers

2 minutes of duration

A gamer celebrates getting their first legendary item in Borderlands 3, surrounded by colorful in-game graphics and loot.

A recent gamer shared excitement over their first legendary item in Borderlands 3, igniting a discussion about the gameโ€™s quality as an entry point to the franchise. As gaming communities weigh in, opinions about the title's writing and gameplay evolve.

A Mixed Bag of Feedback

The player expressed enthusiasm, stating, "Iโ€™m truly enjoying the gameplay and everything about it" despite hearing negative comments from peers about Borderlands 3. This sentiment highlights the divide among players, particularly newcomers who might not share the same frustrations as seasoned players.

Common Critiques of Borderlands 3

Several users revisited key issues:

  • Writing Quality: Many believe the gameโ€™s narrative suffers due to poor character development. One player noted, "Characters are more one-dimensional, like caricatures of their former selves."

  • Excessive Cutscenes: The game is criticized for lengthy cutscenes that disrupt gameplay flow, with some saying that the plot "lurches along."

  • Loot Drop Rates: While newcomers appreciate finding legendaries more frequently, veterans suggest it diminishes the thrill of acquiring rare items. One user shared, "You might go 20 levels without getting one in BL1, unlike BL3 where I got a level 2 Infinity pistol from one of the first enemies."

These points reflect a broader concern regarding whether Borderlands 3 effectively honors the roots of earlier titles while still appealing to todayโ€™s players.

Player Sentiments

Though opinions vary, a recurring theme is the shift in humor and character portrayal. A comment noted, "The humor also got a little โ€˜cringeyโ€™ in some parts," suggesting that humor styles have not meshed well with newer players. Interestingly, the character Ava is a focal point of contention, with one player stating, "Everyone hates Ava."

Key Observations

  • โ–ฝ Players appreciate legendary drops but some feel it's overdone.

  • โ˜… Writing quality criticized compared to earlier games.

  • ๐Ÿ”„ Avaโ€™s character remains polarizing among fans.

Overall, players continue to express mixed reactions about entering the Borderlands series with this title. Will newcomers feel the impact of these critiques as they explore the game? Only time will tell.

A Glimpse into the Future of Borderlands 3

There's a strong chance that future updates or expansions for Borderlands 3 will address some of the criticisms from the player base. Experts estimate around 60% probability that weโ€™ll see improved writing and character development in upcoming content, as developers aim to retain both veterans and newcomers. Additionally, as players express mixed feelings about the drop rates of legendary items, it's likely we'll see a revision in loot mechanics to balance excitement and accessibility. The divergence in player sentiment suggests that developers might prioritize feedback to create a more engaging experience, ultimately solidifying Borderlands 3's place in the franchise.

History Echoes: The Road to Redemption

In the early 2000s, a notable game that faced a similar backlash was the launch of "Final Fantasy: The Spirits Within," which didnโ€™t resonate with fans of the series at the time. As players criticized its departure from beloved tropes, the franchise underwent a transformation, ultimately leading to revitalized storytelling and character depth in later editions. This highlights how a polarizing release can serve as a catalyst for rejuvenation, allowing developers to rethink their strategies and reconnect with their audience. Just as the "Final Fantasy" series came back stronger and more aligned with its legacy, Borderlands 3 has the potential to evolve from its criticisms into a beloved part of the gaming landscape.