Exploring Pandora in VR: A Borderlands 2 Review

By /

Borderlands 2 VR takes the beloved looter-shooter franchise and throws it headfirst into the immersive world of virtual reality. This isn’t just a simple port, though. Gearbox Software has made some significant changes to adapt the Borderlands 2 experience for VR, creating a unique and engaging adventure on Pandora. In this Borderlands 2 VR review, we’ll delve deep into the gameplay, graphics, performance, and overall experience to help you decide if this virtual treasure hunt is worth your time and money borderlands 2 vr review.

Gameplay and mechanics

Borderlands 2 VR retains the core gameplay loop that made the original game so addictive: shoot, loot, and repeat. You’ll still be exploring the vast wastelands of Pandora, completing quests, and battling hordes of enemies. However, VR adds a whole new layer of immersion and intensity to the experience borderlands 2 vr review.

  1. Immersive Gunplay: Borderlands 2 VR truly shines in its gunplay. Aiming down the sights of a virtual weapon feels incredibly satisfying, and the variety of guns ensures that every encounter is uniqueWhether you’re wielding a shotgun, sniper rifle, or explosive launcher, VR amplifies the feedback and impact of each weapon. .
  2. VR-Specific Abilities: To further enhance the VR experience, Borderlands 2 VR introduces new abilities specifically designed for virtual reality. “Badass Mode” allows you to slow down time, giving you a tactical advantage in heated firefightsWhen you combine this mechanic with the precision of VR aiming, it transforms you into a true Vault Hunter. .
  3. Movement and Comfort: Borderlands 2 VR offers both teleportation and smooth locomotion options for movement. While teleportation can feel a bit jarring at times, it’s a welcome option for those prone to VR motion sickness. The game also includes comfort settings like vignette adjustments to further minimize discomfort.
  4. A New Perspective on Pandora: Exploring the world of Pandora in VR is a breathtaking experience. Familiar locations like Sanctuary and the Caustic Caverns take on a new life when you’re standing in the middle of them. The cel-shaded art style translates surprisingly well to VR, maintaining the game’s signature visual charm.

Visuals and performances

Borderlands 2 VR retains the distinctive cel-shaded art style of the original game, and it holds up remarkably well in VR. The vibrant colors and bold outlines create a visually striking experience that’s both familiar and refreshing borderlands 2 vr review.

  • Optimized for VR: While the graphics aren’t a massive leap over the original Borderlands 2, Gearbox has optimized the game to ensure smooth performance in VR.
  • Stable Framerate: Maintaining a consistent framerate is essential for a comfortable VR experience, and Borderlands 2 VR generally delivers in this regard. Occasional dips in framerate can occur during particularly hectic moments, but they are infrequent and don’t significantly detract from the overall experience.

Contents and features

Borderlands 2 VR includes the base game’s main campaign and a selection of its DLC. That said, the VR version didn’t include all of the original game’s content.

  • A Wealth of Content: Even without all the DLC, Borderlands 2 VR offers dozens of hours of gameplay. The main campaign alone will keep you busy for a considerable amount of time, and the included DLC adds even more variety and replayability.
  • Missing DLC: Unfortunately, some of the original Borderlands 2’s most popular DLC, such as Tiny Tina’s Assault on Dragon Keep, is absent from the VR version. This is a significant omission for fans of the original game, but the included content still offers a substantial experience.
  • No Co-op Mode: Perhaps the biggest disappointment for many fans is the lack of co-op multiplayer in Borderlands 2 VR. The original game’s chaotic co-op gameplay was a major draw, and its absence in the VR version is a noticeable drawback.

Controls and user interfaces

Borderlands 2 VR offers both PlayStation Move and DualShock 4 controller options. Each control scheme has its own strengths and weaknesses, and the best choice will depend on your personal preferences.

  • PlayStation Move Support: The PlayStation Move controllers offer a more immersive experience, allowing you to physically aim and fire your weapons. However, the Move controls can also be less precise and more challenging to master, especially during intense combat encounters.
  • DualShock 4 Compatibility: The DualShock 4 controller offers a more traditional control scheme that may be more comfortable for players familiar with first-person shooters. However, it lacks the physicality and immersion of the Move controllers.
  • Inventory Management: Navigating menus and managing your inventory in VR can be cumbersome, regardless of your chosen control schemeNavigating menus during a firefight can be frustrating due to the user interface’s lack of design for VR.

Sound design and music

Borderlands 2 VR retains the excellent sound design and music of the original game, further enhancing the immersive experience.

  • Iconic Soundtrack: The game’s soundtrack perfectly captures the chaotic and irreverent spirit of the Borderlands universe. The blend of licensed tracks and original score creates a memorable audio experience that complements the on-screen action.
  • Immersive Sound Effects: From the roar of your weapons to the screams of your enemies, the sound effects in Borderlands 2 VR are top-notch. The spatial audio in VR adds another layer of immersion, allowing you to pinpoint the location of enemies and environmental sounds.

Pros and cons of Borderlands 2: VR

Pros:

  • Immersive Gunplay: VR brings a whole new level of intensity and satisfaction to Borderlands 2’s gunplay.
  • VR-Specific Abilities: “Badass Mode” and other VR-exclusive abilities add a unique twist to the gameplay.
  • Stunning Visuals: The cel-shaded art style translates beautifully to VR, creating a visually striking experience.
  • Excellent Sound Design: The iconic soundtrack and immersive sound effects further enhance the VR experience.

Cons:

  • Missing Content: The VR version does not include all of the original game’s DLC.
  • No Co-op Mode: The lack of co-op multiplayer is a significant drawback for fans of the original game.
  • Cumbersome UI: Navigating menus and managing your inventory in VR can be frustrating.
  • Motion Sickness Potential: Despite comfort options, some players may still experience motion sickness.

Is Borderlands 2 VR Worth It?

Despite its shortcomings, Borderlands 2 VR offers a thrilling and immersive experience that captures the essence of the beloved looter-shooter franchise. If you’re a fan of Borderlands 2 and you’re looking for a new way to experience Pandora, then Borderlands 2 VR is definitely worth checking out.

  • A Must-Play for Fans: For fans of the Borderlands series, the VR version offers a fresh perspective on a familiar world. Even with the missing content and lack of co-op, the core gameplay loop is still incredibly addictive in VR.
  • A Great Introduction to VR Shooters: If you’re new to VR shooters, Borderlands 2 VR isa fantastict place to start. The game’s slower pace and forgiving difficulty make it an accessible entry point into the genre.
  • Consider the Price:The cost of Borderlands 2 VR may act as a deterrent, particularly given the absence of certain content.If you’re still undecided, you might consider waiting for a sale or exploring other VR shooters.

Tips for Playing Borderlands 2 VR

  • Start with Comfort Settings: If you’re new to VR or prone to motion sickness, be sure to adjust the comfort settings before diving into the game. Experiment with different locomotion options and vignette settings to find what works best for you.
  • Take Breaks: VR can be physically and mentally demanding, so it’s important to take breaks regularly.
  • Experiment with Weapons: Borderlands 2 VR features a massive arsenal of weapons, so don’t be afraid to experiment and find your favorites. Each weapon feels unique in VR, and you’ll want to try them all.
  • Utilize “Badass Mode”: “Badass Mode” is a powerful tool that can give you a significant advantage in combat. Use it strategically to slow down time and line up headshots.
  • Explore Pandora: Take your time to explore Pandora’s world in VR.

The Future of Borderlands in VR

Borderlands 2 VR demonstrates the franchise’s potential in virtual reality.  With its immersive gunplay and unique VR mechanics, it sets a solid foundation for future Borderlands VR experiences.

  • Potential for Borderlands 3 VR: Given the success of Borderlands 2 VR, it’s not unreasonable to hope for a VR adaptation of Borderlands 3. Imagine exploring the vast worlds of Borderlands 3 with the added immersion of VR.
  • Enhanced VR Experiences: Future Borderlands VR games could further refine the VR mechanics and introduce new features specifically designed for virtual reality. Co-op multiplayer, improved inventory management, and more detailed environments are just a few possibilities.

Conclusion

Borderlands 2 VR successfully brings the beloved looter-shooter franchise to virtual reality, offering a thrilling and immersive experience that captures the essence of the original game. While it’s not without its flaws, the intense gunplay, unique VR mechanics, and stunning visuals make it a worthwhile adventure for fans of Borderlands and VR enthusiasts alike borderlands 2 vr review.

FAQs

Does Borderlands 2 VR include all of the DLC from the original game?

No, Borderlands 2 VR does not include all of the original game’s DLC. Some of the most popular DLC, such as Tiny Tina’s Assault on Dragon Keep, is missing from the VR version.

Does Borderlands 2 VR have co-op multiplayer?

Unfortunately, no. Borderlands 2 VR is a single-player-only experience.

What control options are available in Borderlands 2 VR?

Borderlands 2 VR supports both PlayStation Move and DualShock 4 controllers.

Can I play Borderlands 2 VR if I’m prone to motion sickness?

Borderlands 2 VR includes several comfort settings, such as teleportation movement and vignette adjustments, to help minimize motion sickness. However, some players may still experience discomfort.

Is Borderlands 2 VR worth it?

If you’re a fan of Borderlands 2 and you’re looking for a new way to experience Pandora, then Borderlands 2 VR is definitely worth checking out. However, the missing content and lack of co-op are significant drawbacks to consider.

Scroll to Top