With virtual reality becoming steadily more accessible as hardware prices drop, more and more developers are creating VR versions of games fans have long known and loved. The most recent inductee into this wave of games is Gearbox’s beloved Borderlands 2. This critically acclaimed and commercially successful shooter brought the world of Pandora to life for the second time back in 2012, and since then it has lived fondly in the hearts and libraries of the series’ fans.
Instead of being handed off to another studio, the port was created by Gearbox Software themselves, ensuring the small tweaks and adjustments necessary could be made with care. While some fans may be upset the developer is seemingly twiddling their thumbs and doing anything they can to avoid working on the next installment, hopefully, those looking to satisfy their Borderlands craving can do so with the PlayStation VR version.
As previously mentioned, however, there will be some changes made from the original release. The most glaring of these changes is that the presence of multiplayer will be completely absent, taking away what many fans consider to be the primary draw of the game. Hopping into a session of explosive, loot-filled action with one to four friends is a huge component to the Borderlands pedigree. To make up for this the development team have had to adjust several abilities and skills across the game’s various classes. They have also added a time warping mechanic called Bad Ass Mega Fun Time. Abbreviated as BAMF Time, producer Brian Burleson had this to say about the new feature:
“Activating BAMF Time will give you the speed and reflexes of a rabid skag, allowing you to dodge bullets, pull off 360 no-scope headshots, and even use your Action Skill to fight off hordes of bandits, bullymongs, and whatever else Pandora might throw at you.”
It should also be noted that upgrades specifically for BAMF Time can be unlocked in the skill tree, demonstrating yet another way Gearbox has taken steps to ensure the game is optimized for VR. While the original four classes present in the base game will be featured in the upcoming port, nothing has been mentioned as far as the extra classes initially available as DLC. Unless add-ons are released at a later date, we can safely assume the Mechromancer and Psycho won’t make their VR debut.
Gearbox seeks to break into new territory and join Bethesda in the elite few who have brought a fully fledged, and well-beloved title to VR, instead of simply making a spinoff. While it remains to be seen in its new realization, Borderlands 2 was a massively fun romp which by all means should translate well to the up close and personal nature of virtual reality. Borderlands 2 VR will be released to PlayStation VR on December 14. Until then, check out the trailer for the game down below.
