We already know what the world of Borderlands 4 looks like — and how its size stacks up against other games. With the Gearbox shooter hitting shelves in just one week, early estimates suggest it’s even bigger than Skyrim.

After years of waiting, and following a third installment that failed to please many fans, Borderlands 4 is nearly here. The franchise, long known for its wild action, irreverent humor, and distinct cel-shaded art, is making a bold shift: introducing a massive open world called Kairos. This world will serve as the sole setting for the entire adventure — and based on current calculations, its scale is truly staggering.

Kairos is no ordinary planet but a sprawling prison where players, as exterminators, are trapped alongside fellow inmates. Unlike earlier titles that split missions across multiple zones, this chapter unfolds entirely within a single, seamless environment. The goal is to immerse players in an uninterrupted story while balancing exploration, combat, and dynamic events that keep the pace relentless.

How does Borderlands 4’s map compare to other games?

The map size has been one of the biggest talking points. According to estimates from the Reddit community, based on previews and rough scaling, Kairos measures approximately 54 km². For comparison, that’s larger than Skyrim (37–40 km²), though it still falls short of giants like Elden Ring (79 km²) or GTA V (75.84 km²). What matters most, however, is how Gearbox intends to fill that space with meaningful content and variety.

And it’s not just surface exploration. Borderlands 4 will feature underground missions and towering structures that add vertical layers to gameplay. Players will also encounter random events while driving across the map, from parkour trials to excavation challenges, offering rare rewards. Because these events cannot be repeated in the same location, they encourage constant exploration and ensure every session feels different.

With these changes, Borderlands 4 is aiming to set itself apart not just from its predecessors but also from its competitors. Whether this ambitious approach pays off will only be clear after launch, but all signs point to Gearbox doubling down on its most daring chapter yet.

Source: MeinMMO