Is Borderlands 2 Cross Platform? Everything You Need to Know

Is Borderlands 2 cross platform

I still remember the first time I played Borderlands 2. A friend had been raving about it, so one weekend, I finally caved and joined him for a co-op session. We sat in his dimly lit living room, surrounded by snacks and the faint hum of his gaming console. The chaotic charm of Pandora, the snarky humor, and the loot—oh, the loot—had me hooked from the first mission. We spent hours strategizing, laughing, and occasionally yelling when a boss fight went south. Those memories still stand out as some of my favorite gaming moments.

Naturally, when I revisited Borderlands 2 years later, I was curious if I could relive those adventures with friends who owned different systems. This led me to the burning question: Is Borderlands 2 cross-platform? Let’s dive into the details and explore what the game offers in terms of multiplayer and crossplay.

Is Borderlands 2 Cross Platform?

Is Borderlands 2 Cross Platform

The short answer is no, Borderlands 2 is not cross-platform. If you’re on PlayStation, Xbox, or PC, you’re limited to playing with others on the same platform. For example:

  • Xbox players can only team up with other Xbox users.
  • PlayStation players are restricted to their console family.
  • PC players can connect only with others using the same digital storefront, though there’s a slight exception here, which we’ll explore later.

Despite its enduring popularity and iconic status, Borderlands 2 doesn’t natively support crossplay across different systems. This limitation applies whether you’re playing the original release or the remastered version included in The Handsome Collection.

Why Isn’t Borderlands 2 Cross-Platform?

When Borderlands 2 launched in 2012, cross-platform gaming was still a pipe dream for most developers. The concept simply wasn’t as prevalent or feasible as it is today.

1. Development Era

The game was created during a time when multiplayer experiences were typically designed for a single platform. Cross-platform play required advanced infrastructure, unified matchmaking systems, and significant technical resources—things that weren’t standard at the time.

2. Technical Challenges

To make an older game like Borderlands 2 cross-platform, developers would need to overhaul its codebase, servers, and matchmaking systems. For a game that’s over a decade old, this kind of investment might not align with the priorities of its creators.

While it’s disappointing for fans, it’s important to view Borderlands 2 as a product of its time. Back in 2012, it was celebrated for its incredible gameplay, co-op mechanics, and unique humor—even if those experiences were limited to a single platform.

Does Borderlands 2 Support Any Crossplay?

While full cross-platform support is missing, there’s a limited exception for PC players. If you’re on Steam or the Epic Games Store, you can play together, thanks to the fact that both platforms run the same version of the game.

Here’s how you can set up multiplayer on PC:

  • Ensure Your Game Is Updated: Both players need the latest version of Borderlands 2.
  • Use SHiFT Matchmaking: SHiFT, a service from Gearbox Software, enables crossplay between Steam and Epic Games Store users.
  • Share Your SHiFT ID: You’ll need to exchange SHiFT IDs with your friend to join their game.

While this offers some flexibility for PC players, it doesn’t extend to consoles. Unfortunately, Xbox, PlayStation, and PC players are still isolated in their respective ecosystems.

What About Newer Borderlands Games?

If cross-platform functionality is a must-have for you, consider exploring newer games in the Borderlands series. Both Borderlands 3 and Tiny Tina’s Wonderlands include robust crossplay features, making it easier to team up with friends on different systems.

1. Borderlands 3

  • As of 2022, Borderlands 3 supports crossplay across Xbox, PlayStation, PC (both Steam and Epic Games Store), and even Stadia.
  • This update brought a significant leap forward for the series, allowing players to experience cooperative chaos without platform restrictions.

2. Tiny Tina’s Wonderlands

  • This whimsical spin-off also features full cross-platform multiplayer, letting players connect seamlessly across different devices.

Both of these games are great options if you’re itching for that signature Borderlands experience with the added bonus of crossplay.

Co-Op Options in Borderlands 2

Co-Op Options in Borderlands 2

Even without cross-platform support, Borderlands 2 still shines as a cooperative experience. Here are the ways you can play with friends:

1. Online Co-Op

Each platform—Xbox, PlayStation, and PC—supports online multiplayer for players within the same ecosystem. Simply invite friends from your platform’s friends list to join your game.

2. Steam and Epic Games Store Crossplay

As mentioned earlier, PC players on these two platforms can play together using SHiFT matchmaking.

3. Local Co-Op (Split Screen)

If you’re playing on a console, Borderlands 2 offers local split-screen multiplayer. Grab a second controller, and you and a friend can dive into Pandora together from the comfort of your couch.

4. LAN Play

For those who prefer old-school setups, you can use a local area network (LAN) to connect multiple PCs for multiplayer gameplay. This is particularly handy if you’re hosting a gaming night with friends.

Why Are New Cross-Platform Features Rare in Older Games?

Many fans wonder why beloved classics like Borderlands 2 don’t receive updates to include crossplay. The reasons often boil down to practical limitations:

  1. Development Resources: Revamping an older game to support cross-platform functionality is a massive undertaking that may not be financially viable.
  2. Focus on New Titles: Developers typically prioritize newer games and projects over retrofitting older ones with modern features.
  3. Server and Matchmaking Overhauls: Crossplay requires centralized matchmaking systems, which many older games lack.

Can Borderlands 2 Crossplay?

Unfortunately, the answer remains no for most players. While PC users on Steam and Epic Games Store can enjoy limited crossplay, console players remain confined to their respective platforms.

However, the lack of full cross-platform support doesn’t take away from the magic of Borderlands 2. Whether you’re battling bandits, hunting for legendary loot, or just reveling in the game’s offbeat humor, the experience remains as engaging as ever.

If crossplay is a dealbreaker for you, consider diving into Borderlands 3 or Tiny Tina’s Wonderlands, both of which offer seamless multiplayer across platforms.

As for me, I still cherish the countless hours spent in Pandora’s chaotic world. Sure, cross-platform play would’ve been a dream come true, but the memories forged with friends—on the same console or not—are what truly made Borderlands 2 unforgettable. So grab your favorite Vault Hunter, and let the looting and shooting begin!