Borderlands 3 gets enhanced social features, adds Apex Legends-like 'ping' system

What you need to know

  • Borderlands 3 is an open-world shooter expected to launch in September.
  • The game features hilarious characters like Claptrap.
  • It also contains enhanced social features like a "ping" communication system.
  • Borderlands 3 is available for $60 through the Microsoft Store.

Borderlands 3 is an upcoming open-world shooter which takes place in a crazed universe. Gearbox Software hosted two panels at Guardian Con over the weekend. The conference took place in Florida and attracted numerous gamers. During the "Borderlands 3: At the Corner of Social and Streaming" panel, the developer shared new details about social features, livestreaming tools, and accessibility options.

You can read about the highlights from the event below.

  • Social: Dueling is back and better than ever. Borderlands 3 features competitive multiplayer for up to four people. You're on your own so you'll have to take out your friends. The game will also feature deep integration with Discord for features like activity group-based matchmaking, asynchronous matchmaking, and more.
  • Streaming: Borderlands 3 features a Twitch extensions that allows you to look through a streamer's loadout and skilltrees. Certain events are also triggered once certain conditions are met.
  • Accessibility: You can fully remap controls on consoles and PC. Borderlands 3 is also compatible with the Xbox Adaptive Controller. You'll also be able to toggle auto-mantling and aim-assist options.
  • Communication: Just like Apex Legends, this game features a "ping system" that allows you to communicate with one another without speaking. You can ping enemies, chests, guns, and much more.

It's great to see that social features have been enhanced this time around. The ping system should make communicating so much easier. Every game should include it because not everyone likes to talk over party chat.

Borderlands 3 takes place on multiple planets and features numerous alien vaults. It's by far the biggest Borderlands game yet, and it looks like the team has nailed it once again. There's so much to do, and given the fact that it doesn't contain microtransactions, you'll have to earn the "billions" of guns through gameplay.

Borderlands 3 runs at 4K resolution on Xbox One X, but the team also wants to give gamers the option to play it at 60 frames per second (FPS). It's unclear what the resolution will be for the "performance" mode, but playing at a higher frame rate should make the shooting feel incredible. Unfortunately, the base console is locked at 30 FPS.

Excellent and affordable Xbox accessories

Up your Xbox experience with one (or all) of these budget accessories, all of which are approved by the gamers of Windows Central.

PowerA Play & Charge Kit for Xbox One ($15 at Amazon)

This charging kit keeps your Xbox One wireless controllers juiced up, and it offers batteries for two controllers. At just $15, this is hands-down our favorite budget charging companion.

ElecGear 4 Port USB Xbox One S Hub ($19 at Amazon)

This brilliant little USB splitter hub attaches perfectly to the side of your Xbox One S console. It's ideal for use with chargers, controllers, headsets, and more.

Controller Gear stand ($13 at Amazon)

Proudly display your Xbox gamepads with this stylish and functional stand. The licensed design is minimalist and black, and it has a hidden storage compartment, making the price of $13 a real steal.

Asher Madan

Asher Madan handles gaming news for Windows Central. Before joining Windows Central in 2017, Asher worked for a number of different gaming outlets. He has a background in medical science and is passionate about all forms of entertainment, cooking, and antiquing.