In the latest previews for Gearbox Entertainment’s Borderlands 4, many responses have been quite favorable. However, one recurring comment was the absence of a minimap, which was a key feature in both Borderlands 2 and 3. Addressing this concern, the studio CEO, Randy Pitchford, has confirmed via Twitter that there will be an optional combat radar readily available at the game’s launch.
Initially not activated, Pitchford shares that this feature became possible due to the hard work of creative director Graeme Timmons, along with Jason Brown and Justin Dooley from the UI team, and art by Ray Peña. Unfortunately, it won’t be available during the Borderlands Fan Fest on June 21st because it wasn’t implemented in time. However, at launch, it should enhance combat awareness.
As a gamer, I delved into the rationale behind excluding a minimap in the game. Issues with environments featuring verticality and the hefty CPU and memory expenses were among the reasons. Frankly, it’s not a fair trade-off considering the importance of high performance and memory for other visual feedback elements and player data, particularly in the context of Borderlands 4’s innovative game design. Instead, our team opted to focus on enhancing the main map and navigation tools such as ECHO-4 and the compass, ensuring a smoother gaming experience overall.
You’re welcome to review the conversation that follows. The anticipated release date for Borderlands 4 is set on September 12th, available on Xbox Series X/S, PlayStation 5, and PC at a price of $69.99. For comprehensive information about the game, such as insights into two new Vault Hunters and post-launch expectations, feel free to peruse our article.
Navigating using a mini-map can be challenging, especially in complex urban landscapes like Tokyo, where buildings are taller than each other. It’s similar to the experience of using Google Maps for walking around such cities, as it can become disorienting and difficult to make sense of.
— Randy Pitchford (@DuvalMagic) June 19, 2025
Developing the mini-map is no walk in the park; it’s not as easy as creating a smaller version of the existing map. Instead, it involves constructing an entire new system that demands substantial development time, which could otherwise be allocated to additional features or content.
— Randy Pitchford (@DuvalMagic) June 19, 2025
The effect of screen size on our game’s functionality is not insignificant. Although we could offer an option for it, we would still need to ensure that the game operates smoothly whether the screen real estate is utilized or not, taking into account the remaining screen space for HUD and the game world view.
We can’t ignore how screen size affects our game. Even if we provide an option for it, we must make sure the game works well regardless of whether the screen real estate is used or not, considering the rest of the screen space needed for user interface and game view.
— Randy Pitchford (@DuvalMagic) June 19, 2025
Instead, let’s focus on enhancing our primary, comprehensive map, making it more functional, quicker, and superior. Additionally, we will improve other navigational tools such as a compass and an AI drone buddy named EchoBot. (11/32)
— Randy Pitchford (@DuvalMagic) June 19, 2025
As a gamer myself, let me tell you that when it comes to Borderlands 4, I truly believe we nailed it with our approach. From the seamless navigation and innovative additions like Echobot, compass, and the expansive map, to the immersive world design and dynamic move set – it’s all just pure gaming magic. And let’s not forget about performance and memory optimization; it’s a testament to our dedication to excellence. In my opinion, Borderlands 4 stands head and shoulders above its predecessors in every aspect.
— Randy Pitchford (@DuvalMagic) June 19, 2025
Frankly speaking, we’ve relied on the compass so extensively for combat situational awareness that the radar has become almost irrelevant to us. Over time, we’ve stopped giving it much thought. At a beginner level, we can demonstrate that radar isn’t crucial, and at an advanced level, the compass is favored over it.
— Randy Pitchford (@DuvalMagic) June 19, 2025
We gave the individuals we interacted with the opportunity to play our game for extended periods, ranging from an hour up to three hours at times. We assigned them missions, engaged them in a boss fight within a vault, and even allowed them free exploration – all under minimal guidance and without any limitations on their experience of the build we presented. (19/32)
— Randy Pitchford (@DuvalMagic) June 19, 2025
In many of the locations we visited during our trip, some individuals expressed disappointment about the small-scale map provided. Approximately 15% of the people mentioned this issue, and most of them, following their play, concurred with our choices concerning navigation. This translates to 21 out of a total of 32 people.
— Randy Pitchford (@DuvalMagic) June 19, 2025
During the tour, our team working on Borderlands 4 had some discussions privately about the insights gained from the workshops. Overall, we were quite enthusiastic – it seemed everyone was really enjoying the game!
— Randy Pitchford (@DuvalMagic) June 19, 2025
While collaborating as the development lead alongside Steve Jones and a few other team members, we were brainstorming with our producer counterparts on implementing new features and determining whether we could meet the deadline for release. Suddenly, an extraordinary event unfolded.
— Randy Pitchford (@DuvalMagic) June 19, 2025
As a gamer, I recently had the opportunity to collaborate with the fantastic Borderlands 4 UI team members, such as the legendary Jason Brown and the cool-as-a-cucumber Justin Dooley. We were graced by the amazing artwork of Ray Peña too! Currently, we’re at 27 out of 32 pieces completed.
— Randy Pitchford (@DuvalMagic) June 19, 2025
In the upcoming game, Borderlands 4, a combat radar is no longer a mandatory inclusion; instead, it’s now an available feature for players to choose! Check out this exclusive preview of its design! [29/32]
— Randy Pitchford (@DuvalMagic) June 19, 2025
This event transpired due to the outstanding attributes of our community, particularly those genuine supporters who genuinely wish well for the game, offered insightful feedback, and presented logical reasoning. You’re undoubtedly aware of yourselves, and you’ve done an exceptional job! Kudos to you, as it was your efforts that brought about this success!
— Randy Pitchford (@DuvalMagic) June 19, 2025
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2025-06-20 16:41