Is Borderlands 3 On Game Pass? No, Borderlands 3 is not currently available on Xbox Game Pass. While previous Borderlands titles were once on the service, they were removed in March 2020, and Borderlands 3 has yet to make its debut on the platform.
Borderlands 3, the latest installment in the franchise, continues to attract players with its expansive worlds, unforgettable characters, and explosive action. Naturally, fans wonder if this hit title is part of Xbox Game Pass, a service known for delivering top-tier games.
The combination would be a dream come true for many gamers, making the hunt for Vault keys more accessible than ever. [Is Borderlands 3 On Game Pass?]
In this blog, we’ll address the burning question: Is Borderlands 3 currently on Xbox Game Pass? We’ll delve into its history with the service, explore why it might not be included, and suggest alternatives for those eager to dive into Pandora’s chaos.
Borderlands Series on Game Pass: A Look Back
The Borderlands franchise has had its moment in the spotlight on Xbox Game Pass. Titles such as Borderlands, Borderlands 2, and Borderlands: The Pre-Sequel were all part of the subscription service, allowing fans to experience the series’ trademark blend of chaos, humor, and loot hunting.
This inclusion gave many players their first taste of the Borderlands universe, setting the stage for the excitement surrounding Borderlands 3. [Is Borderlands 3 On Game Pass?]
However, in March 2020, these games were removed from Game Pass as part of the regular rotation of titles. Since then, none of the Borderlands games have returned to the service. While this hasn’t diminished their appeal, it does mean fans need to explore other ways to access these iconic games.
Why Borderlands 3 Isn’t on Game Pass
For fans of the franchise, Borderlands 3’s absence from Game Pass is both surprising and disappointing. With its predecessors making appearances on the platform, the expectation was natural.
Here are some possible reasons for its absence:
Timed Exclusivity Deals:
Borderlands 3 initially launched with a timed exclusivity agreement with the Epic Games Store on PC, which shaped its early distribution strategy. While this exclusivity doesn’t directly involve Game Pass, it reflects 2K Games’ business decisions regarding platform partnerships.
Removal of Previous Titles:
Borderlands, Borderlands 2, and Borderlands: The Pre-Sequel were previously available on Xbox Game Pass but were removed in March 2020. This pattern suggests 2K Games may approach Game Pass deals with a limited timeframe in mind.
No Official Statements:
Neither 2K Games nor Microsoft has provided a clear explanation for Borderlands 3’s absence. Without transparency from the companies involved, fans are left speculating about business strategies or potential upcoming announcements.
Other Platforms
Borderlands 3 is widely available on multiple platforms, including PlayStation, Steam, and the Epic Games Store. This cross-platform accessibility may reduce the urgency for 2K Games to negotiate its presence on Game Pass, as it continues to generate revenue through traditional sales.
PlayStation Plus Context
Interestingly, Borderlands 3 was part of PlayStation Plus in July 2024, giving subscribers a chance to dive into its chaotic worlds for free during that period. [Is Borderlands 3 On Game Pass?]
However, this was a limited-time offer, and the game is no longer available via the PlayStation Plus catalog, highlighting the ever-changing nature of subscription services.
While the reasons remain unclear, the good news is that Game Pass’s dynamic library means opportunities for Borderlands 3 to join the platform are never entirely off the table.
Alternatives for Borderlands Fans While Waiting
If Borderlands 3 isn’t on Game Pass yet, that doesn’t mean fans are out of options. Here are some great ways to enjoy the game—or similar experiences—while waiting for potential updates:
Purchase Borderlands 3 During Sales:
Borderlands 3 often goes on sale, making it an affordable option for those eager to jump in. Prices vary, but deals often bring the cost down to $15–$30 for the Standard Edition, with Deluxe and Ultimate Editions also discounted on platforms like Steam, the 2K Store, and the Xbox Store.
Look for Free-Play Events:
Platforms like Steam and the Epic Games Store occasionally host free-play weekends or limited-time events. Keep an eye out for announcements to snag temporary access to Borderlands 3.
Explore Similar Games on Xbox Game Pass:
While Borderlands 3 isn’t on Game Pass, the platform offers plenty of looter-shooters and co-op adventures to keep you entertained. Here are a few recommendations:
- Destiny 2: A sprawling sci-fi looter-shooter with epic co-op gameplay and a constantly evolving world. [Is Borderlands 3 On Game Pass?]
- The Outer Worlds: A humorous RPG that blends quirky storytelling with action-packed exploration, offering a tone reminiscent of the Borderlands series.
- Warframe: A free-to-play online action game with fast-paced combat and a focus on cooperative play.
- Deep Rock Galactic: A unique co-op shooter where players mine resources, battle aliens, and explore procedurally generated caves.
These alternatives can scratch the itch while you wait for news about Borderlands 3’s potential arrival on Game Pass.
The Future of Borderlands on Game Pass
While Borderlands 3 isn’t currently on Xbox Game Pass, there’s reason to remain hopeful. The gaming industry thrives on surprises, and titles frequently make unexpected appearances on subscription services. Borderlands 3, in particular, has a track record that suggests it could follow a similar trajectory. [Is Borderlands 3 On Game Pass?]
For instance, Borderlands 3 was included as a free game for PlayStation Plus subscribers in July 2024, highlighting 2K Games’ willingness to collaborate with subscription platforms. This shows that the publisher is open to leveraging such services to expand the game’s reach.
Several factors could pave the way for Borderlands 3 to join Game Pass in the future:
- Marketing Campaigns for Borderlands 4: As anticipation builds for the next installment in the series, 2K Games might use Game Pass as a platform to rekindle interest in Borderlands 3 and introduce new players to its universe.
- Expiration of Exclusivity Deals: Existing agreements, such as those made with the Epic Games Store or PlayStation, might be limiting its availability on Game Pass. Once these agreements lapse, the door to Game Pass could open.
- Potential New Agreements: Microsoft has a history of striking deals to bring high-profile titles to Game Pass. A partnership with 2K Games could make Borderlands 3 a prime candidate for future inclusion. [Is Borderlands 3 On Game Pass?]
For now, patience is key, but the possibility remains exciting.
FAQs
Is Borderlands 3 free to play?
No, Borderlands 3 is not permanently free to play. It has been offered for free during limited-time promotions, such as on the Epic Games Store in May 2022 and during specific weekends on Steam. Currently, it must be purchased to play.
Does Xbox have Borderlands 3?
Yes, Borderlands 3 is available on both Xbox One and Xbox Series X|S. Xbox One owners can upgrade to the Xbox Series X|S version for free. [Is Borderlands 3 On Game Pass?]
Has Borderlands ever been on Game Pass?
Yes, the original Borderlands, Borderlands 2, and Borderlands: The Pre-Sequel were once available on Xbox Game Pass. However, they were removed in March 2020 and have not returned since.
How much is Borderlands 3 on Steam?
The standard edition of Borderlands 3 is currently priced at £49.99 on Steam, while the Ultimate Edition, which includes all downloadable content, is priced at £205.80. Prices may fluctuate during sales and promotions.
Conclusion
To wrap up, the answer to the question is clear: Borderlands 3 is not currently available on Xbox Game Pass. While this may be a letdown for fans hoping to access the game through a subscription, there are plenty of other ways to experience the looter-shooter madness, from purchasing the game outright to taking advantage of frequent discounts and bundle deals.
Looking to the future, the possibility of Borderlands 3—or even Borderlands 4—joining Game Pass remains an exciting prospect. Until then, players can explore alternative methods to embark on their quest for loot and chaos. [Is Borderlands 3 On Game Pass?]
What do you think? Would you love to see Borderlands 3 on Game Pass? Have you already played it? Share your thoughts, hopes, or experiences with the game in the comments below. Let’s keep the conversation going!
Ready for your next adventure? Check out “Is Black Ops 2 On Game Pass?” to discover new ways to team up and survive!
Furqan Romi is a passionate Xbox enthusiast and gaming expert who brings years of experience to the world of gaming content. As the voice behind XboxMasters.com, Furqan dives deep into the latest Xbox games, consoles, and accessories, providing reviews, guides, and tips to help gamers level up their experience. Whether you’re a casual player or a hardcore fan, Furqan’s insights are your ultimate companion in the Xbox universe.