The recent balancing patch for Borderlands 4 has made a significant impact, and after some time spent exploring its new features, the overall direction feels promising. The game is quickly establishing itself as one of the standout FPS titles of recent years, with an engaging experience that evokes nostalgia reminiscent of Borderlands 2. While players await further performance enhancements on PC, Gearbox has released an extensive set of update notes that enhance the gameplay for all characters, with noticeable effects right from the start.
Character Enhancements and Build Diversity
In this latest update, Gearbox has prioritized creating greater build diversity by addressing underperforming skills. Amon, who previously lagged behind in power, receives significant attention with over 60 buffs. Vex’s summons have been strengthened, Rafa’s melee capabilities have been enhanced, and Harlowe’s Stasis has also seen improvements. The sheer magnitude of these adjustments is striking, making it easy for players to feel the difference immediately.
This week, I’ve been experimenting with an Onslaught Amon build, which has historically been one of the less powerful skill trees. However, the enjoyment factor is undeniable. As a long-time fan who started with Brick in the original Borderlands, I find the combination of rapid regeneration and the ability to dash-punch across the battlefield exhilarating. The recent buffs have made this build hit significantly harder—by an impressive 78%—while the accompanying Molten Slam has increased by 50%.
Previously, my build relied heavily on melee attacks to close the distance and maximize point-blank damage reduction while reloading my slow-refilling shotgun. Now, even the toughest foes crumble under my enhanced melee attacks. This power fantasy compensates for Amon’s limitations in maintaining his action skill, allowing me to retreat and deliver satisfying sniper headshots when necessary.
While not every buff reaches such dramatic heights, many adjustments are substantial enough to be felt immediately. Amon may be the standout recipient of these changes, but Vex has also received notable upgrades to her lesser skill trees, despite already being a popular choice with strong setups. My Harlowe build has also benefited, with Zero-Point’s stasis bubble now dealing 30% more slam damage and 14.7% increased immune damage.
As someone who enjoys selecting skill trees for their entertainment value rather than sheer strength, I find comfort in knowing that I won’t have to abandon my favorites in pursuit of progress. This is a refreshing change that bodes well for the game’s future.
As a veteran player of Borderlands, Diablo, and ARPGs, I recognize the potential pitfalls of continuous buffs, even in a PvE setting. While the thrill of overwhelming enemies can be exhilarating, the novelty of such power can wear thin. However, Borderlands 4 is designed to scale as more ranks of Ultimate Vault Hunter Mode are introduced, along with upcoming DLCs and Story Packs. Buffing weaker builds to create a more balanced playing field is a wise initial step.
Lead character designer Nicholas Thurston notes, “Balance is a moving target, but this is the first step. Expect more level pulling in the future. We’ll get there eventually. Lots of exciting stuff on the horizon.” With the announcement of the fifth Vault Hunter, C4SH, arriving alongside the beloved Ellie, anticipation builds for the first expansion. Given the excitement generated by this update, it seems likely that players will continue to engage with Borderlands 4 well into the new year.
This Borderlands 4 update is out now. For a detailed overview of all the individual changes, players can refer to the full patch notes provided by Gearbox.
Have you recently discovered some legendary weapons in Borderlands 4? The quickest way to enhance your arsenal is through Borderlands 4 Shift codes, and our updated list includes the latest rewards.
What loadout has brought you the most joy in Borderlands 4? Join the conversation on the PCGamesN Discord server and share your luckiest and most impressive loot drops with fellow players.