Borderlands Mobile Launches as Surprise 'Limited-Time Test' for iPhone Users

A new free-to-play Borderlands game has unexpectedly appeared on the App Store today, catching many fans off guard with its unannounced release. Published by mobile powerhouse Zynga and developed by British studio NaturalMotion, known for their work on Star Wars: Hunters, the game is currently labeled as a 'limited-time test' according to a statement provided to Gematsu. This statement also clarifies that Gearbox, the original creator of Borderlands, only served in an advisory capacity for this project.

Dubbed an 'epic looter shooter,' Borderlands Mobile is exclusively available on iPhone in the United States at this time, with no Android version yet released. Attempts to access the game from other regions result in an error message indicating regional unavailability.

The official description promotes the game with the tagline 'Create Mayhem YOUR way!' It invites players to loot a variety of wild weapons and battle enemies in a mobile adaptation of the Borderlands universe. Players can team up with other Vault Hunters to take on greedy corporations and unlock legendary Vaults, all while experiencing the franchise's signature chaos, art style, and gunplay optimized for mobile devices.

Further details highlight the ability to hunt for legendary loot, enhance abilities for personalized gameplay, and wield an arsenal ranging from pistols to rocket launchers. The game features action-packed missions against foes like skags, bandits, and bosses, with modes including Campaign Missions, Tower of Terror, and Circle of Slaughter.

Currently, there is limited information available about Borderlands Mobile. No trailer has been released, and the official Borderlands social media accounts have not mentioned the game, instead focusing on updates for Borderlands 4. After a rocky start, Borderlands 4 recently received its first major DLC, which Gearbox hopes will re-engage the fanbase.

If you try out Borderlands Mobile, share your thoughts on the experience.