Key Highlights
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Enhanced graphics and performance for smoother gameplay (allegedly).
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Exclusive content and items, because milking a franchise is apparently lucrative.
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Cross-platform play enhancements, if you can call them that.
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Tired jokes and humor that haven’t aged well.
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Mayhem Mode for endgame grinding, because more loot is always the answer, right?
Introduction
Oh, great. Another re-release. Gearbox Software, known for squeezing the Borderlands franchise for all it’s worth, is giving us the Steam Edition of Borderlands 3, which promises bazillions of guns and customization options. Just what we need: a not-so-subtle way to bring players back to Pandora with promises of “new” features and improvements. The base game had its good parts (and by good parts, I mean a few okay gunfights), but thinking this reworked version will surprise us feels too hopeful. Let’s just say my expectations are very low.
Exploring the New Features in Borderlands 3 Steam Edition
Gearbox is offering some pretty unexciting rewards to bring players back. They mention “enhanced graphics,” but let’s be real, you probably won’t notice any changes unless you look very closely. Then there’s “exclusive content,” which is probably just a few new cosmetic items that could have been given in a free update.
They are also talking about cross-platform play “enhancements” from Humble Bundle, which just means they fixed some bugs that should have been fixed a long time ago. Don’t get too excited; this isn’t a big change, just a way to get more money disguised as new features through PayPal Giving Fund.
Enhanced Graphics and Performance Upgrades
They have “enhanced” the graphics. This is supposed to be a big deal. If you think there is a complete visual change, you might feel let down. The design is still the same cel-shaded style. They say they have better textures and effects, but I’ll believe it when I see it. Maybe they have made the game smoother. If you have an AMD Radeon RX or NVIDIA GeForce GTX card, you might get a little boost in performance.
Since Gearbox has a spotty history, I don’t expect a steady frame rate. I think we will see a slideshow instead of a smooth shooter when there is a lot going on, leading to deductions about its performance. So, calling it “enhanced” is a matter of opinion, and in this case, it probably means “a little better if you look really closely.”
Exclusive Content and Items for Steam Users
Oh, yes, the old trick of showing “exclusive content” like a shiny toy to attract players. What rewards await those who buy the Steam Edition? Don’t expect anything special. You may get a few powerful weapons with unique abilities and tons of personalization options to help you a little at the start. But honestly, you will replace them quickly as you find better loot.
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Special items that say, “I paid extra!”
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A new look for your character.
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Maybe a bonus mission.
Most of this so-called “exclusive content” will likely be sold as paid DLC for the base game later on. And if you are lucky, it might be the same reused content from past games. This is what we call innovation nowadays, right?
Cross-Platform Play Enhancements
They are trying to say that small changes to the current cross-platform system are major “improvements.” The truth is, if you wanted a smooth and easy experience, lower your hopes. Let’s be honest. The only reason they are promoting cross-platform play is to boost their player counts. They want to show that the game has a big community.
It’s cool if you have friends on Xbox Game Pass Ultimate who want to play together on Xbox Series X. But don’t get surprised if you deal with lag spikes, connection problems, and the glitches that come with cross-platform gaming. It sounds good in theory, but if we know Gearbox, they have likely just painted over some weak parts.
Conclusion
Borderlands 3 Steam Edition has some new features, including the Ultimate Edition and the Borderlands 3 Season Pass. However, these upgrades might not satisfy everyone. The game promises better graphics and special content just for Steam users. But some players might think the changes are not enough. The upgrades for cross-platform play are a positive step. Still, they may not solve all connectivity problems. If you are thinking about upgrading to the Ultimate Edition, look closely at the benefits and the price. Make sure your system can handle it for a good experience. It’s important to be careful and keep your expectations in check with any new release.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I upgrade my existing Borderlands 3 to the Steam Edition?
Don’t put yourself down. If you really want to enjoy the “magic” of the Steam Edition, you’ll probably have to buy the game again, which may impact the purchase price. It seems like Gearbox Software thinks this is what its players want by making them pay for a better-looking version of the same game.
Are there any exclusive missions for Steam Edition players?
I wouldn’t expect too much. Gearbox Software is not really known for being generous. In the rare event PPGF occurs, you will most likely receive a side quest where you have to find a lost teddy bear for a random character on Pandora or a similar charity-related task.
How does cross-platform play work in Borderlands 3 Steam Edition?
In theory, you can connect with players on other platforms regardless of your mission progress to take on insane enemies. However, do not expect it to work perfectly. Be ready for lag, dropped connections, and some frustration. This is Gearbox Software, after all.
What are the system requirements for Borderlands 3 Steam Edition on PC?
You might hear that you need the newest AMD Radeon RX or NVIDIA GeForce GTX graphics card. However, if we look at what Gearbox offers, the game will likely run as smoothly as a rusty shopping cart on a rough street.