Get ahead of the game with these simple but effective Borderlands 3 tips, from making the most of alternate fire modes to properly managing your crew challenges.
Borderlands 3 is a wild and chaotic looter shooter that can be overwhelming, especially for new players. But fear not, Vault Hunters! We've gathered the top 10 Borderlands tips to help you navigate the game like a pro, whether you're a complete beginner or a seasoned veteran.
1. Check for Alternate Fire Modes
One of the new features in Borderlands 3 is the addition of alternate fire modes for many weapons. These special firing options can give your guns added benefits, like corrosive damage against robots or shock damage against shielded enemies.
Make sure to always check the in-game description of any new weapon you pick up to see if it has an alternate fire mode. Then, use the D-Pad to switch between the two modes as needed. Paying attention to these alternate fire modes can give you a significant advantage in combat.
2. Research Character Builds
Borderlands 3 offers four unique Vault Hunters, each with their own skill trees and playstyles. Before you jump into the game, take some time to research the different character builds available online.
Sites like Reddit have compiled guides on the best and most fun builds for each Vault Hunter. This will help you understand how to properly invest your skill points and create a character that suits your preferred way of playing.
Whether you want to go for a high-damage Moze build or a stealthy Fl4K setup, doing your research upfront will set you up for success.
3. Utilize Destructible Environments
Borderlands has always been a cover-based shooter, but Borderlands 3 takes this a step further with destructible environments. Many objects and surfaces can now be shot through or blown up completely, leaving enemies with fewer places to hide.
This works both ways, though, so be mindful that your own cover can be destroyed just as easily. The key is to stay mobile and make smart, forward-thinking positioning choices in combat. If an enemy is holed up behind stubborn cover, a well-placed grenade can quickly remedy that.
4. Spice Up Co-op with Co-opetition Mode
One of the major changes in Borderlands 3 is the introduction of loot instancing and level scaling for co-op play. This means you no longer have to fight over loot drops, and players of different levels can team up without one being overwhelmed.
However, if you're looking for a more competitive edge in your co-op sessions, you can turn on the Co-opetition Mode. This disables loot instancing and level scaling, so you'll be battling it out with your friends for the best gear. It adds an extra layer of challenge, but can be a fun way to spice up your Borderlands 3 co-op experience.
5. Punch Those Explosive Barrels
The physics in Borderlands 3 have been significantly improved, and one of the most satisfying mechanics is the ability to punch explosive barrels into enemies.
Simply get close to a barrel, face the direction you want to send it, and give it a good whack with the melee button. The barrel will go flying, dealing massive area-of-effect damage to any unfortunate foes in its path.
It's a great way to close the distance on tough enemies or create some explosive chaos when you're low on grenades. Just be careful not to accidentally punch the barrel in the wrong direction and blow yourself up.
6. Don't Ignore Crew Challenges
Borderlands 3 introduces a new feature called Crew Challenges, which are essentially contextual collectibles scattered across the game's environments. Complete all the objectives for a Crew Challenge in a single area, and you'll be rewarded with unique loot and gear.
These challenges are easy to overlook, but they're well worth your time. Keep an eye on the map screen to track your active Crew Challenges, and make sure to wrap them up before moving on to the next planet. The rewards can be quite valuable, so don't let these bonuses slip through the cracks.
7. Recover Lost Loot on Sanctuary 3
Similar to games like Destiny, Borderlands 3 has a lost loot system that recovers any gear you may have missed during the heat of battle. These items will be automatically sent to the lost loot machine on your home base, Sanctuary 3.
Be sure to regularly check the lost loot machine and recover any weapons or gear you left behind. You can also increase the lost loot machine's capacity by purchasing SDU upgrades from Marcus' store on Sanctuary 3.
8. Instantly Refill Your Ammo
Running low on ammo can be a nuisance in Borderlands 3, but the game makes it easy to top up your reserves. Whenever you come across a Marcus Munitions vending machine, simply hit the "Refill Ammo" button to instantly max out your ammunition.
This is a great way to prepare for upcoming boss fights or just keep your trigger finger happy without having to browse the machine's wares. Just be ready to pay the price for the convenience.
9. Complete Bonus Objectives
Many missions in Borderlands 3, both main story and side quests, offer optional bonus objectives that provide extra rewards. These can range from killing a certain number of enemies in a specific way to completing a task in a limited amount of time.
Don't ignore these bonus objectives! Completing them will earn you additional XP and, in some cases, rare weapons that you won't be able to find anywhere else. It's a small extra step that can pay off big in the long run.
10. Redeem Borderlands 3 Shift Codes
Shift Codes are special digital keys that can be used to unlock Legendary loot in Borderlands 3. These codes are regularly distributed by Gearbox through social media and various promotions, so be sure to keep an eye out for them.
Once you have a Shift Code, you can redeem it from the Social menu in Borderlands 3. This will grant you access to the game's Golden Chest, which guarantees to contain at least Epic-quality gear. It's a great way to jumpstart your collection of powerful weapons and gear.
In a word, whether you're a newcomer to the series or a seasoned Vault Hunter, these Borderlands 3 tips will help you navigate the game's chaotic world of loot and mayhem. From utilizing alternate fire modes to properly managing your crew challenges, these simple strategies can give you a significant advantage.
Remember, the key to success in Borderlands 3 is adapting to the situation and making the most of the game's various systems and mechanics. With a little research and practice, you'll be tearing through hordes of enemies and collecting legendary loot like a pro in no time.
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