Borderlands, the iconic looter-shooter franchise by Gearbox Software and published by 2K Games, has reached a monumental milestone. According to Take-Two Interactive’s financial report for May 2025, the series has sold nearly 93 million copies globally since its debut in 2009 — a testament to its enduring appeal and major influence on the gaming industry.
The first Borderlands exploded onto the scene in 2009, redefining the FPS landscape with its genre-blending gameplay, irreverent humor, and standout cel-shaded visuals. It didn’t take long for the title to become a hit, leading to a full-blown franchise including major sequels and innovative spin-offs.
A Legacy of Loot, Guns, and Growth
The success story doesn’t stop at the original. Borderlands 2, released in 2012, remains the franchise’s best-selling entry with over 30 million units sold. Its compelling story, improved mechanics, and iconic villain Handsome Jack helped it become a fan favorite and a high watermark for the series.
Meanwhile, Borderlands 3, which launched in 2019, has sold over 22 million units, earning the title of “2K’s fastest selling game ever,” according to the report — an impressive feat despite receiving a mixed critical reception upon release.
Beyond mainline entries, the franchise has also seen diversification through creative spin-offs. Tiny Tina’s Wonderlands gave players a whimsical, fantasy-themed twist on the Borderlands formula, while Tales from the Borderlands by Telltale Games showcased the universe’s narrative potential in an episodic adventure format.
What’s Next for Borderlands?
With the next major Borderlands title set to launch in just a few months, fans are buzzing with anticipation. While official details remain scarce, expectations are high, especially given the franchise’s stellar commercial track record.
Whether it’s the allure of endless loot, chaotic co-op mayhem, or quirky storytelling, Borderlands continues to be a dominant force in gaming nearly 16 years after its inception. As it nears 100 million in sales, the future looks explosively bright for Vault Hunters everywhere.