(Image credit: Sony/Gearbox)
Gearbox Software has addressed concerns regarding the absence of a mini map in the eagerly awaited Borderlands 4. The forthcoming looter shooter is set to replace the traditional mini map, often located at the screen’s corner, with a new compass system that guides players towards mission objectives. Although this might seem like a subtle alteration, it could significantly impact the navigation experience in the game’s expansive world. Randy Pitchford, the head of Gearbox, believes a mini map would be less effective in a world as vast and varied as that of Borderlands 4.
Speaking at a PAX East panel, Pitchford explained, “Here’s the deal, you guys haven’t played the game yet. Obviously, when we did Borderlands 1, we didn’t have a mini map and we added it in Borderlands 2. And we noticed some comments online about the absence of a mini map in the previews for Borderlands 4.”
He further clarified, “I’ll just be upfront with you. We’ve crafted an enormous world where some activities are local, but many objectives and opportunities might be far-flung. A local map isn’t effective for navigating objectives several miles apart. A compass allows for better navigation in such expansive spaces.”
Additionally, Borderlands 4 is touted as the most vertical game in the series, supporting new features like a grappling hook. Pitchford assured fans they could reach any visible point in the game, “even if it’s a mile away, up in the sky.” The team at Gearbox was committed to creating a more vertical and layered environment, in lieu of a flat landscape, suggesting that a 2D map would lead to confusion in such a setting.
With the new compass system, complete with arrows indicating whether objectives lie above or below, Pitchford believes players will gain enhanced “spatial awareness,” allowing them to focus on playing the game rather than fixating on a mini map. “We want you to play the game, and not play the map,” he emphasized.
While discussing the game’s pricing, Pitchford acknowledged uncertainty, remarking, “I don’t know” how much Borderlands 4 will cost. However, he highlighted that the game had “more than twice the development budget for Borderlands 3” and speculated that “it might be” priced at $80, comparable to some Nintendo and Xbox titles.