Adam May Unveils Bold New Directions for Borderlands 4

In an exclusive interview, Adam May, Art Director at Gearbox Software, revealed exciting developments for the upcoming game, Borderlands 4. Set to launch on September 12, 2024, the game promises to push the boundaries of visual design, thanks to advancements in technology and artistic vision.

Dynamic Inking and Enhanced Graphics

The distinctive art style of the Borderlands franchise has long been a hallmark of its success. While often described as cel-shaded, May clarifies that the style more closely resembles a graphic novel or a detailed comic book. With the transition to Unreal Engine 5, the team has harnessed features like dynamic inking, which allows for a greater number of detailed art assets to populate the screen simultaneously.

May, who has been with Gearbox for nearly twenty years and previously directed art for Tiny Tina’s Wonderlands, noted that the limitations of older technology restricted the visual possibilities in earlier titles. “With Borderlands 4, we are no longer confined by those constraints,” he stated. The lush environments of the new planet, Kairos, showcase vibrant greenery made possible through the engine’s capabilities.

Art and Gameplay Synergy

During the conversation, May discussed the intricate relationship between art design and gameplay mechanics. He emphasized that the integration of gameplay demands, narrative elements, and visual aesthetics fosters a collaborative environment within the development team. The advanced technology enables the game to render greater distances without sacrificing detail, which enhances gameplay experiences, particularly for long-range weaponry like the new sniper rifle.

The world of Borderlands 4 features diverse biomes, offering players a vast open-world playground. May expressed that the art team’s commitment is to immerse players in this new environment, blending familiar elements with innovative designs. The game retains the franchise’s signature grimy palette while introducing fresh, vibrant landscapes.

May highlighted the importance of small details, such as how players might experience temporary blindness when transitioning from a dark cave to bright sunlight, contributing to the game’s immersive quality. “It’s these little touches that create a convincing world,” he added.

Having started his career as a 3D designer for film and animation, May’s journey has come full circle as he directs large teams of artists to bring the Borderlands universe to life. His passion for the franchise is evident, and he believes that the art direction has influenced other games, evident in titles like First Berserker: Khazan, which employs a similar comic-inspired aesthetic.

As the anticipation for Borderlands 4 builds, May’s enthusiasm is contagious. The combination of innovative technology, artistic ambition, and a commitment to immersive gameplay suggests that this installment could redefine the franchise. For fans eagerly awaiting the release, the date of September 12, 2024 cannot come soon enough.

“We are no longer confined by those constraints,” Adam May stated regarding the advancements in Unreal Engine 5.