Hello Vault Hunters! I take it that you’ve just downloaded Borderlands 2 for free thanks to an EU PlayStation Plus subscription, or are planning to? Or maybe you just fancied buying it? Whatever’s the case, I would advise you to have a look at these tips before you start sinking time in, as with a little advice you’ll be able to play the game with greater success and pleasure.
1. Remember it’s not DOOM.
If you’ve played the original Borderlands, then you’ll realise that you’re not going in for the bog-standard shooter. This game has RPG elements and is uber-tough to boot. You’ll need to do side quests and you’ll need to upgrade your gear, or get used to dying. You won’t be able to just shoot your way to the end of the game or expect to beat a boss by skill alone; backtracking will become a regular thing after cautious (or not so) tests to see how powerful you are.
2. Mix things up
Your decision on what character to choose at the beginning of the game might be a flippant one or seriously considered one but, even if you’re happy, I’d recommend trying out all the different characters. You might find that you’re just more of a natural in one particular play style, and this will be of particular importance if you head online.
3. Get some friends, get online
Borderlands 2 really comes into its own when you’re playing with friends, and you don’t have to just trust me on this, as PSU’s once head honcho Adam Dolge sung the praises of the co-op experience in his review. CheatCC sagely makes the point that you shouldn’t just play the game with randomers, as that’s potentially an unsatisfying experience. Get some friends and go find Handsome Jack.
4. Get serious
Borderlands 2 is the kind of game you can sink a lot of time into, especially if you purchase the add-on packs, so you’ll want people you can rely on to play with you regularly. It’s not only good to know what kind of people you’re playing with in terms of your skill, but you can play tactically: making sure there’s a variety of characters in your group, organising boss battles over your headset, etc. etc. It’ll be a more rewarding way to play, as you’ll be reaping in success.
5. Shift and Loot
Shift. There’s apps and website dedicated to sharing the codes, because if you can get one they make a real difference. A Shift code will usually provide a Golden Key to Golden Chests, which allows you to get to rare weapons. Take a look at the unofficial Borderlands wiki to get your hands on some active ones, and to find out where you can discover them.
If you’re in the U.S., you can also download the LootTheWorld app for iOS or Android, which gives you items to use in-game when you scan QR and bar codes.
Do you have any tips? Share them with us in the comments section