Borderlands 4 Builds Diversified by BG3 and PoE-Inspired Skills

Borderlands 4 takes inspiration for its enhanced "build diversity" from Baldur’s Gate 3 and Path of Exile. Learn how the developers refined the RPG mechanics and expanded the passive skill system for deeper customization.

Enhanced Passive Skills and Build Variety in Borderlands 4

A Vastly Expanded Passive Skill Collection

Borderlands 4 significantly amplifies its focus on passive skills, incorporating more options than all its predecessors combined. In an August 15 interview with Polygon, Lead Character Designer Nick Thurston discussed the newly unveiled Vault Hunter, Amon the Forge Knight, and the game's intensified emphasis on RPG features.

At first glance, Amon appears to be a straightforward tank or brawler, using his imposing build to overpower foes. Yet his playstyle centers on crafting weapons via cybernetic drones—a concept Thurston calls a "sci-fi viking."

This fusion of advanced tech and raw power reflects the team’s creative approach, applying a "melting pot of ideas" throughout the game. The expanded skill tree system provides unprecedented freedom to experiment with diverse character builds.

Thurston elaborated, "Our Augment and Capstone systems require you to make meaningful choices that dramatically alter each player’s abilities. This alone offers more build variety than ever. On top of that, we've included more passive skills than every prior Borderlands game combined. Amon alone has around 87 passives, and most Vault Hunters feature about 80."

Customizing with stacked perks and inventive builds remains a cornerstone of the Borderlands experience. Combined with an upgraded weapon system boasting "billions of guns and gear," players can tailor their ideal Vault Hunter to match their preferred combat style.

Influences from Baldur’s Gate 3 and Path of Exile

Beyond its looter-shooter roots, Borderlands 4 elevates its RPG components through a refined and extensive skill system. Thurston, an avid player of titles like Baldur’s Gate 3 and Path of Exile, drew direct inspiration from these deep role-playing games.

He describes his own playstyle as that of a "min-maxer," aiming to maximize damage output in his preferred manner. Thurston noted, "Earlier characters in the series often had a narrow focus. I felt it was crucial that if you have a compelling character, you should be able to use them in multiple ways."

For Borderlands 4, the team aimed to accentuate the distinctions between different character builds. Thurston emphasized the need for players to make tough decisions when specializing their Vault Hunters, ensuring each playthrough feels fresh.

"In earlier games, if you and I both picked Zero, we’d likely end up with similar builds. That can be enjoyable, but I wanted four players using Amon to each have a completely different setup," he explained.

With additional upgrades such as a seamless open world and engaging end-game content, Borderlands 4 is poised to be the most ambitious entry in the series. The game launches on September 12, 2025, for PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, Nintendo Switch 2, and PC. Stay informed with the latest updates by checking our article below.