10 Best Games Like Borderlands To Shoot And Loot Your Way Through In 2025

The Borderlands franchise, renowned for its distinct blend of cel-shaded graphics, outrageous humor, and an insatiable loot loop, has carved a unique niche in the gaming landscape. Since its inception, Borderlands has offered players a visceral experience of shooting, looting, and exploration that few other titles can replicate. While Borderlands 4 may be on the horizon, for those craving that specific looter shooter adrenaline rush, a universe of equally compelling adventures awaits. Here at Gaming News, we’ve meticulously scoured the digital and physical realms to identify the top 10 games that capture the spirit of Borderlands, ensuring your 2025 gaming calendar is packed with explosive action and legendary gear.

Embarking on Your Next Looter Shooter Odyssey

The allure of Borderlands lies in its inimitable formula: a chaotic combat system, over-the-top character personalities, a massive arsenal of procedurally generated weapons, and a story brimming with dark comedy. Finding games that perfectly mirror this combination can be a challenge, but we’ve focused on titles that excel in delivering key elements that Borderlands fans cherish. Whether it’s the sheer volume of loot drops, the quirky narrative delivery, the vibrant visual aesthetics, or the satisfying gunplay, these games promise to scratch that looter shooter itch. We’ve considered games that are readily available on modern platforms, as well as those that might require a nod to past console generations, acknowledging the franchise’s long and illustrious history dating back to 2009.

1. Tiny Tina’s Wonderlands: A Fantastical Foray into the Borderlands Universe

Developer: Gearbox Software Release Date: March 24, 2022 Platforms: PlayStation 4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, PC

It would be remiss not to begin with a title that is intrinsically linked to the Borderlands DNA. Tiny Tina’s Wonderlands is not merely a game like Borderlands; it is, in essence, a Borderlands experience through a different lens. Set within the whimsical and often perilous Dungeons and Dragons campaign masterfully narrated by the beloved Tiny Tina, this spin-off transports players into a world of fantasy, magic, and, of course, explosive weaponry. The core Borderlands formula of shooting, looting, and skill-tree progression remains firmly intact, but it’s infused with a fantasy theme that opens up new gameplay avenues. Expect to wield spell-casting abilities alongside traditional firearms, encounter mythical creatures, and navigate a narrative that is as hilarious as it is heartfelt. The visual style is unmistakably Borderlands, and the loot system will keep you endlessly engaged in the pursuit of legendary gear. For any Borderlands enthusiast, Tiny Tina’s Wonderlands offers a familiar yet refreshingly novel adventure.

Key Features of Tiny Tina’s Wonderlands:

• Spellcasting Integration: Blend firearms with powerful magic spells for devastating combat combinations.
• Fantasy Setting: Explore a world inspired by tabletop role-playing games, complete with dragons, skeletons, and enchanted loot.
• Tiny Tina’s Narration: Experience a story driven by the chaotic and unpredictable humor of Tiny Tina, adding a unique narrative flair.
• Character Customization: Build your own Fatemaker with a deep character creator and a dual-class system, offering immense build diversity.

2. Fallout 4: Post-Apocalyptic Plunder in a Vast Open World

Developer: Bethesda Game Studios Release Date: November 10, 2015 Platforms: PlayStation 4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, PC

While Fallout 4 may not boast the vibrant cel-shaded aesthetic of Borderlands, it delivers a compelling post-apocalyptic open-world experience that resonates deeply with fans of the looter shooter genre. Set in the ruins of Boston, known as the Commonwealth, Fallout 4 places you in the role of the sole survivor of Vault 111, on a quest to find your abducted son. The exploration is vast and rewarding, with countless locations to discover, enemies to battle, and, crucially, an enormous amount of loot to acquire. The weapon modification system is incredibly deep, allowing you to tailor your firearms to your preferred combat style, much like the procedural generation in Borderlands. Beyond the shooting, the settlement building feature adds a unique layer of engagement, allowing you to establish and manage your own outposts across the wasteland. The quirky humor, often found in the environmental storytelling and character interactions, also echoes the spirit of Borderlands.

Key Features of Fallout 4:

• Vast Open World Exploration: Traverse the irradiated ruins of the Commonwealth, uncovering hidden secrets and dangerous encounters.
• Deep Weapon Customization: Modify your weapons with hundreds of attachments, altering their performance and appearance.
• Settlement Building: Construct and manage your own settlements, attracting settlers and defending them from threats.
• Engaging Storyline: Embark on a personal quest for survival and reunification in a richly detailed world.

3. Outriders: A Darker Take on the Looter Shooter Formula

Developer: People Can Fly Release Date: April 1, 2021 Platforms: PlayStation 4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, PC

Outriders was conceived as a next-generation looter shooter, and it largely succeeds in delivering a visceral and loot-centric experience that will appeal to Borderlands aficionados. Developed by People Can Fly, known for their work on Gears of War: Judgment and Bulletstorm, Outriders combines intense, cover-based shooting with unique class-based abilities. The loot system is a major highlight, with enemies frequently dropping a cascade of weapons and armor, encouraging players to constantly upgrade their gear. The game’s World Tier system allows for dynamic difficulty scaling, ensuring that both new and veteran players can find a challenge that rewards them with increasingly powerful loot. While the tone is decidedly darker and more serious than Borderlands, the core loop of shooting, looting, and character progression is incredibly satisfying. The open zones provide ample space for strategic combat, and the diverse enemy types keep encounters fresh and engaging.

Key Features of Outriders:

• Class-Based Abilities: Master unique powers and synergies within your chosen class, from pyromancy to technomancy.
• Intense Gunplay: Engage in fast-paced, bullet-hell-infused combat with a variety of firearms.
• Meaningful Loot Progression: Collect legendary gear with powerful perks that significantly alter your playstyle.
• Cooperative Multiplayer: Team up with friends to tackle challenging missions and raid-like encounters.

4. Destiny 2: The MMO-Looter Shooter Hybrid

Developer: Bungie Release Date: September 6, 2017 Platforms: PlayStation 4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, PC

For those who crave the looter shooter experience but also desire a robust multiplayer component and a persistent online world, Destiny 2 stands as a premier choice. Bungie’s creation masterfully blends first-person shooter mechanics with MMO elements, creating an expansive universe filled with endless loot, challenging raids, and engaging PvP combat. While the core game is free-to-play, offering a substantial amount of content to dive into, its expansive DLC offerings continue to expand the narrative and provide new gear to chase. The loot grind in Destiny 2 is legendary; acquiring the best weapons and armor often requires dedication and perseverance. However, the thrill of uncovering a god-roll weapon or a coveted exotic piece of gear is unparalleled. The PvE content is varied, ranging from story campaigns and strikes to intricate raids that demand precise teamwork and strategic execution.

Key Features of Destiny 2:

• Vast Sci-Fi Universe: Explore diverse planets, moons, and dimensions in a rich and evolving science fiction setting.
• Deep RPG Progression: Customize your Guardian with classes, subclasses, and a vast array of abilities and exotic gear.
• Endless Loot Chasing: Engage in a constant pursuit of powerful weapons and armor, with countless ways to acquire them.
• Robust Multiplayer: Participate in cooperative PvE activities like Strikes and Raids, or test your skills in competitive PvP modes.

5. Warframe: A Free-to-Play Space Ninja Spectacle

Developer: Digital Extremes Release Date: March 25, 2013 Platforms: PlayStation 4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, PC, Nintendo Switch, Mobile

Warframe is a testament to longevity and player dedication, offering a free-to-play MMO looter shooter experience that has continuously evolved since its release. Players step into the role of Tenno, ancient warriors who pilot powerful biomechanical suits called Warframes. The gameplay is incredibly fast-paced and fluid, emphasizing acrobatic movement, melee combat, and gunplay. The loot system is central to progression, with players collecting resources, mods, and new Warframes and weapons to customize their loadouts. Warframe features a comprehensive PvE experience, including a surprisingly deep story that unfolds over dozens of hours, alongside cooperative missions and challenging endgame content. The community is known for its welcoming nature, and the constant stream of updates and new content ensures that the game remains fresh and engaging, much like the ongoing evolution of the Borderlands universe.

Key Features of Warframe:

• Fluid Movement System: Master parkour, wall-running, and aerial maneuvers for exhilarating combat.
• Extensive Warframe Customization: Collect and customize over 50 unique Warframes, each with distinct abilities and playstyles.
• Deep Weapon Arsenal: Wield a vast array of melee weapons, firearms, and heavy weapons, all with extensive modding capabilities.
• Free-to-Play Model: Enjoy a massive amount of content without any upfront cost, with optional cosmetic purchases.

6. Rage: Post-Apocalyptic Mayhem with Vehicular Combat

Developer: id Software Release Date: November 17, 2010 Platforms: PlayStation 3, Xbox 360, PC

Rage, from the legendary studio id Software, shares a temporal proximity with the original Borderlands, and the two titles possess a shared DNA that will appeal to fans of post-apocalyptic shooters. Rage plunges players into a desolate wasteland populated by mutated creatures and ruthless bandits. The gameplay is characterized by fast-paced, visceral shooting, with a variety of distinct weapons at your disposal. While the loot mechanics are not as central as in Borderlands, players will still find themselves scavenging for ammunition and upgrades. What sets Rage apart is its emphasis on vehicular combat, allowing players to customize and pilot a range of armored vehicles in exhilarating races and battles against enemy convoys. The world design is atmospheric, and the quirky characters you encounter add a layer of personality to the desolate landscape. The sequel, Rage 2, further amplifies these elements with a more vibrant and chaotic experience.

Key Features of Rage:

• Intense First-Person Shooting: Experience the signature id Software gunplay with satisfying feedback and enemy variety.
• Vehicular Combat: Engage in thrilling races and battles using a customizable arsenal of off-road vehicles.
• Expansive Open World: Explore a vast and detailed post-apocalyptic wasteland filled with secrets and dangers.
• Engaging Story Campaign: Follow a compelling narrative through a world scarred by an asteroid impact.

7. Dead Island 2: Zombie Slaying with Style and Humor

Developer: Dambuster Studios Release Date: April 21, 2023 Platforms: PlayStation 4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, PC

Dead Island 2 may not be a looter shooter in the traditional sense, but its unique approach to melee combat, crafting, and its quirky sense of humor make it a worthy contender for Borderlands fans. Set in a zombie-infested Los Angeles, the game focuses on visceral, over-the-top zombie dismemberment. The weapon system is a standout feature, allowing players to craft and modify an array of brutal melee weapons, from electrified machetes to flamethrower katanas. The combat is satisfyingly gory and requires strategic use of your environment and chosen weaponry. Furthermore, Dead Island 2 captures a similar tongue-in-cheek humor that permeates the Borderlands universe, making the often-grim task of zombie slaying an enjoyable and darkly comedic affair. The detailed graphics and immersive atmosphere of a ruined LA contribute to a compelling gameplay experience that, while different, shares a spirit of creative destruction with Borderlands.

Key Features of Dead Island 2:

• Visceral Melee Combat: Master a satisfying dismemberment system against hordes of zombies.
• Deep Weapon Crafting: Create and customize a wide variety of brutal melee weapons with various elemental and destructive properties.
• Immersive Open World: Explore the iconic and now ruined locations of Los Angeles.
• Darkly Humorous Narrative: Enjoy a story filled with black humor and eccentric characters.

8. The Outer Worlds: A Sci-Fi RPG with Companion-Driven Action

Developer: Obsidian Entertainment Release Date: October 25, 2019 Platforms: PlayStation 4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, PC, Nintendo Switch

The Outer Worlds, from Obsidian Entertainment, offers a compelling sci-fi RPG experience that emphasizes player choice, narrative, and a galaxy brimming with opportunities for loot acquisition. Players awaken from a centuries-long hibernation aboard a colonist ship to find themselves in the far reaches of Halcyon, a corporate-controlled star system. The game excels in its character-driven storytelling, allowing you to recruit a diverse cast of companions, each with their own personalities and combat abilities. Choices you make throughout the narrative have tangible consequences, shaping the fate of various planets and factions. While the loot system is not as randomized as in Borderlands, there is still a substantial amount of weapons, armor, and consumables to discover and equip. The exploration of unique planets, filled with quirky NPCs, hidden secrets, and distinct environments, will feel familiar to Borderlands fans who enjoy delving into richly detailed game worlds.

Key Features of The Outer Worlds:

• Player Choice and Consequence: Make decisions that impact the story, your companions, and the fate of the Halcyon colony.
• Companion System: Recruit and develop relationships with a memorable cast of companions, who offer unique skills and insights.
• Distinct Sci-Fi Worlds: Explore a variety of planets, each with its own unique biomes, cultures, and challenges.
• Engaging Dialogue and Humor: Experience sharp writing and witty dialogue that echoes the comedic sensibilities of Borderlands.

9. Diablo IV: The Ultimate Loot-Driven ARPG Experience

Developer: Blizzard Entertainment Release Date: June 1, 2023 Platforms: PlayStation 4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, PC

While Diablo IV deviates significantly from the first-person shooter perspective of Borderlands, it stands shoulder-to-shoulder with the franchise when it comes to the sheer volume and addictiveness of its loot system. As an action RPG, Diablo IV immerses players in the dark and gritty world of Sanctuary, where they battle demonic hordes and hunt for powerful gear. The loot drops are relentless, and the pursuit of legendary and unique items with perfect affixes can consume hundreds of hours. The gameplay loop of killing enemies, collecting loot, and optimizing your character build is incredibly satisfying and directly mirrors the core appeal of Borderlands. Although the top-down perspective and fantasy setting are different, the underlying drive to acquire better gear and overcome increasingly challenging content makes Diablo IV a compelling choice for anyone who loves the loot aspect of Borderlands.

Key Features of Diablo IV:

• Unrivaled Loot Volume: Engage in a constant cycle of looting powerful weapons, armor, and accessories.
• Deep Character Customization: Develop your class with a vast array of skills, passive abilities, and powerful legendary powers.
• Dark and Atmospheric World: Explore the grim and hauntingly beautiful land of Sanctuary.
• Engaging Endgame Content: Challenge yourself with Nightmare Dungeons, Helltides, and World Bosses for the ultimate rewards.

10. BioShock Infinite: A Story-Rich Shooter with a Vibrant World

Developer: Irrational Games Release Date: March 26, 2013 Platforms: PlayStation 3, Xbox 360, PC

While not a looter shooter in the same vein as Borderlands, BioShock Infinite offers a captivating first-person shooter experience with a strong emphasis on narrative, atmosphere, and unique combat mechanics that will resonate with fans of the genre. Set in the breathtaking, yet deeply unsettling, floating city of Columbia, players assume the role of Booker DeWitt, tasked with a mysterious mission. The game’s storytelling is exceptional, weaving a complex and thought-provoking narrative that culminates in one of the most memorable endings in gaming history. BioShock Infinite distinguishes itself with its fast-paced combat, incorporating vigors (supernatural powers) alongside a variety of firearms. The world of Columbia is visually stunning, filled with intricate details and a unique art style that sets it apart. While the loot is less randomized, the variety of weapons and vigors allows for creative combat approaches, and the abundance of secrets and collectibles encourages thorough exploration, much like discovering hidden loot caches in Borderlands.

Key Features of BioShock Infinite:

• Masterful Storytelling: Experience a haunting and philosophical narrative that will stay with you long after the credits roll.
• Unique Combat Mechanics: Combine firearms with powerful vigors for dynamic and engaging combat encounters.
• Visually Stunning World: Explore the awe-inspiring and meticulously crafted floating city of Columbia.
• Memorable Characters: Interact with a cast of compelling characters, most notably the enigmatic Elizabeth.

Your Next Great Adventure Awaits

The legacy of Borderlands is one of innovation, humor, and an unparalleled dedication to the looter shooter formula. While direct clones are rare, the games we’ve highlighted offer distinct pathways to experiencing similar thrills. From the fantasy-infused chaos of Tiny Tina’s Wonderlands to the deep RPG mechanics of The Outer Worlds, and the sheer loot-driven addiction of Diablo IV, there is a wealth of experiences waiting to be discovered. Whether you’re seeking the next legendary weapon, a compelling story, or just a good time blasting your way through hordes of enemies, these titles are sure to provide the action-packed, loot-filled adventures that define the Borderlands spirit. Prepare your trigger fingers, polish your favorite shotgun, and dive into these incredible games in 2025!