In Borderlands 4 you can choose between three different modes right from the start. We’ll explain what awaits you in each mode.
With Borderlands 4, Gearbox Software not only delivers a fresh chapter of the looter-shooter series but also a highly flexible system for every type of player. Whether you prefer to casually enjoy the story, tackle tough challenges, or push your limits in the endgame – the right Borderlands 4 mode is waiting for you. Here’s what difficulty levels exist and what they mean for your battles.
- Tip: Don’t forget to check out our Borderlands 4 Info Guide for a full overview of features, classes, and other mechanics.
Borderlands 4 Difficulty Levels Overview
You decide right at the beginning of Borderlands 4 which level you want to start on. In co-op mode, each player can now select their own difficulty level – a feature that was often missing in previous titles. This way you don’t have to compromise: everyone fights individually while still playing together.
Easy Mode
For those who mainly want to experience the story:
- Enemies deal about 20% less damage
- Elemental effects are toned down
- Relaxed progression – perfect for beginners who want to focus on the narrative
Normal Mode
The “standard” setting:
- Balanced difficulty level
- Damage and loot are well-tuned
- Recommended for most players who want a balance between action and challenge
Hard Mode
More pressure on the battlefield:
- Enemies deal around 10% more damage
- In return, you earn 10% more in-game currency
- Better loot, higher risk, higher reward
Important: Regardless of difficulty, all enemies keep their regular HP. The difference lies mainly in damage distribution and the impact of elemental damage.
Borderlands 4: The Ultimate Vault Hunter Mode
Once you’ve finished the campaign, the real adventure begins: the Ultimate Vault Hunter Mode. This mode has been revamped and now focuses much more on long-term progression and varied challenges.
- Unlock: After completing the story
- New missions & challenges: The game doesn’t end with the credits – you’ll get fresh quests that gradually introduce you to the hardcore mechanics of UVM
- Difficulty tiers: The mode offers five levels, unlocked step by step as you beat mission challenges
- Wildcard missions: Tougher variants of known missions with boosted enemies and new effects – the key to unlocking the next tier
Rewards in Ultimate Vault Hunter Mode
As expected in Borderlands, the Ultimate Vault Hunter Mode is all about the loot – and the rewards are worth it. Enemies hit much harder, but the developers balance this with noticeably better gear. You can look forward to equipment that’s not only much stronger but also helps you put together optimized builds.
On top of that, you’ll earn scaled XP and significantly more in-game currency like cash and Eridium, giving you more options for upgrades and endgame activities. Things get especially exciting with dedicated boss drops. That means specific enemy types drop fixed items with a higher chance, allowing you to farm directly for the loot you really want – no more endless blind grinding.
- Borderlands 4: All about preload and system requirements
- Borderlands 4 playtime: How long you’ll be busy with the looter-shooter
Additionally, the new firmware sets come into play in Ultimate Vault Hunter Mode, enhancing your builds with special set bonuses. This way, every tough mission not only pushes you forward but also opens up new long-term strategic options.
Which Borderlands 4 Mode Fits You?
- Easy -> For story lovers and newcomers
- Normal -> For most players looking for the typical balance
- Hard -> For those who want more loot and don’t shy away from tougher challenges
- Ultimate Vault Hunter -> For endgame fans and everyone wanting to get the most out of their Vault Hunter
This system makes Borderlands 4 appealing to every type of player: from casuals to hardcore grinders. And thanks to the option to set individual difficulty levels in co-op, shared looting has never been more flexible.
Source: PlayStation
