What to Expect From Borderlands 3 DLC

Borderlands 3 is the latest entry in Gearbox Software’s action role-playing looter shooter. A direct sequel to 2012’s Borderlands 2, it is the fourth mainline game in the franchise. Like many other games of this type, it doesn’t just focus on completing the main story. Instead, there is a heavy emphasis on endgame content. There have to be lots of things players can do after the credits roll to continue leveling up their characters.

One of the main ways that the developer has traditionally done that with the Borderlands series is to release a series of downloadable content packs. These not only expand the world but also provide new weapons, bosses, and characters to explore.

Now that Borderlands 3 has been out for a few months, it is time to look at what you can expect from the game in terms of DLC. Especially now that the first paid expansion has been announced for release on December 19.

Moxxi’s Heist of the Handsome Jackpot

Thanks to a recent announcement trailer, we now know that the name of the first DLC for Borderlands 3. “Moxxi’s Heist of the Handsome Jackpot” will see players blast off into space. Featuring Mad Moxxi, it will involve a heist against a casino formerly owned by the now-dead Handsome Jack. Along with a safe full of Eridium and new legendary weapons, the DLC will also bring more Hyperion enemies.

More Limited-Time Events

One thing that Gearbox has been keen to point out is a new system in Borderlands 3 for updates. This essentially allows the developer to release hot-fixes, patches, and new content for the game very quickly. As a bonus, there is no need to download separate expansions or downloadable content. Instead, the changes will install via updates automatically.

The main advantage of this approach is that players can expect to see more limited time events. These special events will generally last for around a week or so. Players will be able to get access to rare loot, such as legendary weapons from special bosses or quests. A recent example of this was the “Bloody Harvest” Halloween event in October.

No Extra Vault Hunters

One of the main roles of DLC in the Borderlands series has been to provide players with new Vault Hunters. For example, Borderlands 2 introduced fan favorites such as Gaige and Krieg. These gave players the ability to experience the game in a brand new way. After all, each had their own unique abilities and mechanics that were not previously available.

That will not be the case with expansions for the new game. Gearbox has revealed that all DLC will arrive without new characters. According to the developer, this is because most players simply do not use DLC Vault Hunters. So, the team would prefer to work on content that more people will enjoy.

Consequently, users will have to make do with the current Vault Hunters in Borderlands 3. So if you don’t like Amara, Flak, Moze, and Zane then don’t get your hopes for any additional classes in the future.

The Return of Old Favorites

A key theme in Borderlands DLC throughout each game has been the return of beloved characters. While there are a few exceptions, which focused on brand new characters, most expansions have dealt with existing individuals. Mad Moxxi, Lilith, Tiny Tina, Claptrap, and Dr. Ned have all had DLCs focused entirely on them. Therefore, it seems almost certain that some of the established characters from the series will make a return.

More Skill Trees for Existing Classes

Although Gearbox has revealed that new classes won’t be part of future DLCs, players could instead see existing characters expanded. Currently, the four classes in Borderlands 3 each have a set of three different skill trees. Players are free to upgrade elements from each to customize their character’s abilities and skills. Rather than introduce new classes, future DLCs are likely to add new skill trees to the existing Vault Hunters. For example, FL4K could get additional pets to use in combat while Moze might get access to new gun attachments.

Additional Weapons, Gear, and Locations

A certainty is that each DLC pack for Borderlands 3 will introduce brand new areas to the world map. Each previous major campaign expansion for earlier games has brought new locations to explore. For instance, Captain Scarlett and Her Pirate’s Booty gave players access to places like Oasis and The Rustyards.

Players can also expect to find all-new weapons and gear in the DLC. Most DLCs have included a range of weapons, shields, and mods, for players to find. Special items will likely also be included for beating new raid bosses. Previous DLCs have also introduced new rarity ranks, such as Seraph and Pearlescent, so this could happen in Borderlands 3.

Borderlands 3 will have four DLC packs

A Season Pass is available for Borderlands 3. It reveals that players can expect four campaign DLC packs for the game. The Season Pass also details that these will all release over the next 12 months. That means all DLCs will be available by September 2020, with a new pack coming every three months or so. This is similar to both Borderlands and Borderlands 2. Each of those titles features four large story-based campaigns.

Will you be getting the Borderlands 3 DLC Moxxi’s Heist of the Handsome Jackpot on December 19? Let us know in the comments below!