Gearbox Software is set to release a significant expansion for Borderlands 4 on September 10, titled Story Pack 2. This new downloadable content, named "FL4K and the Last Resort," will transport players to a new island called Providence, offering a fresh environment and a story influenced by classic tales like Lord of the Flies and The Lost World, alongside the action-packed style of John Wick.
The expansion, available as a $19.99 add-on, features Providence, a distinct island characterized by its dense jungles and a striking color palette that leans towards purple hues rather than the typical greens. A prominent volcano on the island is not merely for aesthetic appeal; it introduces a dynamic volcanic weather system that players must contend with, including smoke plumes and increased enemy spawns during eruptions.
The visual design of Providence draws inspiration from the overgrown, post-apocalyptic aesthetic seen in The Lost World. Art director Chris Neely explained that the aim was to create a new experience for players, stating, "I play the game, so I don’t want to see the same shit I just played through a bunch!" The team sought to integrate familiar Borderlands elements into unexpected settings, such as a resort, giving it a grittier, "Mad Max edge."
Upon arriving on Providence, players will assist FL4K, the Beastmaster from Borderlands 3. The developers felt FL4K's inclusion was a natural fit for the expansion, requiring some redesign to integrate them into the new environment. Neely elaborated on FL4K's new look, noting the addition of an iridescent sniper and a cape made from jungle foliage, along with a skull emblem to signify their adaptation to the wild surroundings. This visual storytelling aims to convey that FL4K is thriving on the island despite potentially crashing there.
While exploring, FL4K encounters Tediore soldiers, led by Lieutenant Harmony. This faction of the Tediore weapons manufacturer is central to the plot as they have kidnapped FL4K's dog, Mr. Chew, a narrative parallel to the revenge-driven premise of John Wick. Neely mentioned that focusing on intimate, character-driven stories within a larger world can make that world feel more expansive.
"FL4K and the Last Resort" will deliver the core looter-shooter experience players expect, with new weapons, including 18 legendary items, numerous cosmetics, and over 20 new bosses. Players will also face new enemy types, such as Deadframes that utilize Tediore technology. The DLC introduces Digiverse Events, a Providence-specific activity where players can enter portals to clear arenas and acquire valuable loot. A significant new gameplay feature includes zip-lines, called Zip-Runners, which will add a new layer of verticality to traversing the island.
Borderlands 4's Story Pack 2 will be available for purchase on September 10 for $19.99.