The hype for Borderlands 4 is real, and fans are thrilled to see familiar faces returning to the chaotic world of Pandora (and beyond!).
From fan-favorite heroes to quirky sidekicks, here’s a breakdown of every character confirmed—or heavily hinted—to return in Borderlands 4, along with what their roles could mean for the story.
1. Zane Flynt: From Vault Hunter to NPC
Zane Flynt, the witty Irish mercenary from Borderlands 3, is back—but this time as a non-playable character (NPC). While Zane’s complex skill trees made him tricky for newcomers in BL3, his shift to an NPC role opens doors for deeper storytelling.
Why It Matters:
- Zane’s ties to the villainous Flynt family (Baron and Captain Flynt) could drive major plot twists.
- Expect more sharp one-liners and spy-themed antics. Gearbox may finally explore his backstory, including his rivalry with his brothers.
2. Claptrap: The Series’ Beloved (Annoying) Robot
No Borderlands game is complete without Claptrap’s cringe-worthy jokes and chaotic energy. While his exact role in BL4 is unclear, the trailer confirms his return.
What to Expect:
- Classic Claptrap humor, but with less toilet comedy (Gearbox promised to dial back BL3’s excessive gross-out gags).
- Possible quest-giver or comic relief during intense missions.
3. Nine-Toes: A Blast from the Past
Nine-Toes, the three-armed bandit boss from the original Borderlands, was spotted in the BL4 gameplay trailer. Since he was defeated in BL1, his reappearance raises big questions.
Theories:
- Time Travel: BL4’s villain, the Timekeeper, might manipulate timelines, reviving old foes.
- Flashbacks/Nostalgia: Gearbox could use Nine-Toes to honor the series’ roots while expanding lore.
4. Gaige: The Mechromancer’s Mysterious Comeback
A mechanical hand in the BL4 teaser trailer sparked rumors of Gaige’s return. The Borderlands 2 DLC hero’s robotic arm matches the teaser’s design, and the Timekeeper’s mismatched gloves debunk earlier theories about the antagonist.
What Gaige Could Bring:
- Her engineering genius might aid players in crafting weapons or battling new enemies.
- Potential ties to BL4’s rumored “time war” storyline.
Why Returning Characters Matter
Bringing back legacy characters isn’t just nostalgia bait—it’s a smart way to:
- Deepen Lore: Explore unresolved backstories (like Zane’s family drama).
- Bridge Games: Connect BL4 to older titles for long-time fans.
- Balance Humor & Heart: Claptrap keeps the tone light, while figures like Nine-Toes add gravity.
What Else We Know About Borderlands 4
The 2024 Game Awards trailer revealed exciting features:
- Seamless Open World: No loading screens between zones.
- Grappling Hook: New traversal mechanics for vertical combat.
- Revamped Vehicles: Customizable cars and mounts for chaotic road battles.
Read more about Borderlands 4 release and all.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
When is Borderlands 4 releasing?
No official date yet, but rumors suggest late 2025.
Will older villains like Handsome Jack return?
Unlikely, but never say never in a universe with time manipulation!
Are the Vault Hunters new or returning?
BL4 introduces fresh playable heroes, but old favorites may appear in missions.
What platforms will BL4 launch on?
Likely PS5, Xbox Series X/S, and PC.
Borderlands 4 is shaping up to be a love letter to fans, blending new gameplay with nods to the past.
Whether you’re here for Zane’s roguish charm, Claptrap’s antics, or the mystery of Nine-Toes’ revival, Gearbox seems ready to deliver another wild, loot-filled ride. Stay tuned for more reveals—and keep those fingers crossed for a Tiny Tina cameo!
