Borderlands Art Style

Game Designer at RetroStyle Games | Aug 15, 2024

Borderlands’ art style stands out for its unique and striking visuals. But how did this look come to be? In this article, we’ll explore the key influences behind Borderlands’ visuals, from comic books to short films. We’ll also see how the game’s art evolved from a realistic approach to the bold, colorful style fans love today. This journey through Borderlands’ visual history will show what makes its art so special.

The Origins of Borderlands Art Style

Borderlands, a game developed by Gearbox Software, was inspired by a short film called Codehunters from 2006. The film used a mix of anime and Western animation, which influenced the game’s look. The film featured characters in a ruined city fighting against gangs and monsters. This theme influenced Borderlands. There players choose from four heroes to battle various enemies across Pandora. For Borderlands 3, the art director, Scott Kester, found more inspiration. He was influenced by the movie Chappy by Neil Blomkamp and the anime Tekkon Kinkreet, especially the characters Black and White.

Originally, Borderlands’ style of art had a realistic and dark appearance, typical of many sci-fi games. However, the team decided to switch to a more colorful and stylized look. This change helped the game stand out in a crowded market.

What art style is Borderlands? Many believe that Borderlands uses cel-shading. The developers clarified that the style is more like a “graphic novel” approach with hand-painted and inked textures. Randy Pitchford (CEO of Gearbox), has always talked about Borderlands art style as “concept” or “graphic novel”.

We always called Borderlands “concept art style” or “graphic novel art style” - I guess we were trying to be classy, but there is NOTHING wrong with “comic book style”. - Twitter post

Cel-shading and traditional shading are different techniques used in creating 3D graphics. Cel-shading uses computer rendering to make objects look hand-drawn, with clear and bold outlines. It mimics the style of cartoons or comic books. The game uses the Unreal Engine, which supports cel-shading. However, Borderlands’ “cel-shading” is just a different style. Developers crafted standard character models but simplified the textures. Characters and objects have simple, single-colored skins. Black accents and outlines were added, much like in other games. These outlines are always present and always black. This makes the style resemble cel-shading but isn’t true cel-shading. Instead, it’s closer to early 3D animation techniques. True cel-shading would require more from the hardware.

If you’re looking to use the power of Unreal Engine in your projects, we encourage you to take a look at our Unreal game development services.

What Art Style is Borderlands?

Borderlands is a shooter game from Gearbox that quickly gained a lot of attention. Its unique art style often gets compared to cel-shading, but Gearbox is clear that it’s a different technique. They used hand-drawn textures that were scanned and colored digitally. The software then added outlines and sharpened shadows to give the game a graphic novel feel. The character models were also redesigned with exaggerated features, making the game look like a comic book in motion.

Artists who appreciate traditional drawing often connect instantly with Borderlands style. The game’s stylized art, known for its unique and distinctive looks, is widely appreciated. Inking plays a crucial role in giving the Borderlands franchise its identity. It allows artists greater freedom during the texturing process. This technique enables each artist to add their personal touch while maintaining the game’s overall style. The ink style, though time-consuming, adds significant detail.

Cel-shading in Borderlands doesn’t really exist. What then? The inking process is central to the graphic style of Borderlands. It makes the textures stand out, with every object and character receiving distinct inking. This approach differs from cel-shading. Borderlands relies heavily on hand-crafted textures. Artists create these textures using ink, which is then refined with shaders. This method is what gives Borderlands its iconic look.

Adapting to the Borderlands art requires a change in workflow. The high-detail work primarily occurs during the texturing phase. Although this process may take time to master, it becomes more manageable with experience.

Maintaining graphic cohesion is vital. With numerous assets and artists involved, keeping everything consistent can be challenging. Effective art direction is essential to ensure that all elements remain aligned with the game’s vision.

The Borderlands series is appreciated for its unique aesthetic. The mix of humor, creativity, and style creates a vibrant and immersive game world. The series keeps the tone light and fun while allowing players to explore different paths in the story. This approach helps players learn more about the game’s world and its stories.

Key Elements of Borderlands Art Style

Cell-shaded art style is a technique used in video games to make 3D graphics appear flat, similar to hand-drawn cartoons. It often involves bold outlines and flat shading to create a comic book-like effect.

However, Borderlands does not use true cel-shading.

While it shares some visual similarities, Borderlands animation style is a combination of hand-drawn textures and inking techniques. Which gave it a distinct “graphic novel” feel rather than the flat look typical of cel-shaded art style.

One of the most recognizable features of Borderlands is its use of thick black lines around characters and objects. These bold outlines help to define shapes and add a striking contrast to the visuals, making them stand out against the background.

In addition to the outlines, Borderlands uses a vibrant and contrasting color palette. The bright, bold colors create a dynamic and visually engaging world. This approach helps to differentiate the game from others. Giving it a unique, stylized appearance that feels lively and energetic. The combination of thick outlines and vibrant colors is key to the game’s distinct visual identity.

Character Design

In Borderlands, character design is a blend of distinctive personalities. The characters are designed with exaggerated, bold features that reflect their abilities and roles in the game. For instance, Brick, the Berserker, is depicted as large and muscular. Emphasizing his role as a powerhouse who relies on brute strength.

Lilith, the Siren, is sleek and agile. It represents her ability to phase walk and use elemental powers.

The strong visual design of each character not only makes them stand out but also hints at their gameplay style and strengths.

Each character in Borderlands has a well-defined personality that enhances their role in the story. Mordecai, for example, is a calm and precise sniper who values accuracy and stealth. Roland, the Soldier, is disciplined and strategic, focusing on teamwork and defensive tactics.

These personalities are reflected in their dialogue, actions, and how they interact with other characters in the game. The unique combination of visual design and personality helps to create a diverse cast that players can connect with and enjoy.

Overall, the character design in Borderlands is a key element that contributes to the game’s appeal. Offering players a variety of distinctive characters to choose from. Each with its own visual flair and engaging personality.

There are lots of characters considering how many games have been released. We’ll talk about the characteristics of the most important characters in the Borderlands series.

Lilith (Borderlands 1, 2, & 3)

Main character Lilith from Borderlands 1

Main character Lilith from Borderlands 2

Main character Lilith from Borderlands 3

Lilith is one of the original Vault Hunters and a key character throughout the series. As a Siren, she possesses powerful abilities like phase walking and is central to the story, particularly in Borderlands 2 and 3. In Borderlands 3, she becomes the leader of the Crimson Raiders, fighting to protect Pandora.

Handsome Jack (Borderlands 2 & The Pre-Sequel)

Main character Handsome Jack from Borderlands 2

Main character Handsome Jack from Borderlands Pre-Sequel

Handsome Jack is the main antagonist of Borderlands 2 and a central figure in the series. Charismatic yet ruthless, he controls the Hyperion Corporation and seeks to open the Vaults for his own gain. His complex personality and dark humor make him one of the most memorable villains in gaming.

Roland (Borderlands 1 & 2)

Main character Roland from Borderlands 1

Main character Roland from Borderlands 2

A former soldier and leader of the Crimson Lance, Roland is a key figure in Borderlands 1 and 2. He becomes the leader of the Crimson Raiders and plays a significant role in the fight against Hyperion and Handsome Jack. His death in Borderlands 2 is a pivotal moment in the series.

Maya (Borderlands 2 & 3)

Main character Maya from Borderlands 2 and Borderlands 3

Maya is another Siren and one of the main characters in Borderlands 2. Her phase-lock ability allows her to control enemies, making her a powerful ally. Maya’s story in Borderlands 3 adds emotional depth to the narrative, particularly with her mentorship of the character Ava.

Tyreen and Troy Calypso (Borderlands 3)

The main antagonists of Borderlands 3, the Calypso twins are powerful Sirens who aim to open the Great Vault and harness its power. Tyreen, the more dominant of the two, absorbs the powers of other Sirens, making her a formidable enemy. Their cult, the Children of the Vault, is a major threat throughout the game.

Claptrap (All Borderlands Games)

Main character Claptrap from Borderlands 1

Main character Claptrap from Borderlands 2

Main character Claptrap from Borderlands Pre Sequel

Main character Claptrap from Borderlands 3

Claptrap is the quirky, sometimes annoying, yet lovable robot that has been a staple in the series from the beginning. He serves as comic relief but also plays crucial roles in the storyline. Guiding the player through missions and even leading a robot revolution in The Pre-Sequel.

Borderlands-like Characters

We take the unique, vibrant Borderlands style and create characters that embody it:

Gameplay mechanics in District420, NFT characters customization

Comparisons to Other Art Styles in Games

Examples of Cel-Shading in Games

The cell-shaded art style has been widely used in various games to create distinct visual styles. For instance, Jet Set Radio was one of the first to use cel-shading, giving the game a vibrant, comic book-like appearance. The Legend of Zelda: The Wind Waker also embraced cel-shading. Which helped it stand out with its bright and colorful visuals, a departure from the more realistic graphics of previous Zelda games. Other notable examples include Persona 5. Known for its stylish and bold aesthetic, and Ni no Kuni, which uses cel-shading to create an anime-like world. If you’re looking to create immersive and stylized environments like these iconic games, consider exploring our 3D environment design studio. We specialize in creating stunning, custom-designed environments.

Differences and Similarities

While all these games use cel-shading, the implementation of video game art styles still varies. Some, like The Wind Waker, lean towards a more stylized, cartoonish look, which emphasizes bright colors and bold outlines. Others, like Persona 5, use cel-shading to enhance a more modern and sleek visual style, mixing realism with stylized elements. The primary similarity across these games is the use of cel-shaded graphics to create a distinct, memorable aesthetic.

Realistic vs. Stylized Graphics

The cel-shaded art style is often associated with stylized graphics, which can be both an advantage and a limitation. The stylized look can make a game more unique and visually appealing, especially when realism isn’t the goal. It allows for creative expression, making the game world feel more like a living comic book or animated film. However, it might not appeal to players who prefer realistic graphics, which offer more detailed and lifelike visuals. Realistic graphics can draw players into a world that feels closer to reality. But they can also be more resource-intensive to create and render.

Advantages and Disadvantages

The main advantage of cel-shading is its ability to create a visually striking and unique game world. It’s less demanding on hardware compared to ultra-realistic graphics. Which can be a significant benefit for developers.

However, the downside is that it might limit the game’s appeal to those who prefer a more realistic look. Stylized graphics might also age better. As realistic graphics can look outdated as technology advances.

Ultimately, the preference for cel-shading versus realistic graphics comes down to personal taste. Some players love the vibrant, distinctive style that cel-shading offers. While others might prefer the immersion that realistic graphics provide. Developers often choose a style that best fits the game’s theme and narrative. Ensuring that the visuals complement the gameplay experience.

Player Preferences of District 420

We created the art for District 420 using cel-shading technology. This style gives the game a bright and distinctive visual look, with bold outlines and contrasting colors.

The game offers players a unique opportunity to create and customize their own characters using NFT technology. Players can choose various visual features like eye color, clothing, and accessories to craft a unique character. These characters can then be used in gameplay, adding an extra level of engagement.

The game also includes different levels and series, where players can collect items and create unique NFTs as they progress. This approach allows each player to have a truly personalized experience. The use of cel-shading makes the game visually striking and memorable.

Borderlands Weapons

Borderlands weapons are known for their unique and exaggerated designs that reflect the game’s distinctive artistic style. Key features of Borderlands weapons include:

The weapons in Borderlands aesthetic are often large. With exaggerated features such as oversized barrels, scopes, and mechanical parts. The designs are heavily influenced by a mix of sci-fi and post-apocalyptic aesthetics. Creating a distinct, gritty, and cartoonish look.
The weapons often feature bright colors and unusual patterns, making them stand out visually. These colors and designs are not just cosmetic but often indicate the weapon’s rarity or special attributes.
Borderlands weapons come in many forms, including pistols, shotguns, sniper rifles, and rocket launchers. Each type has its own unique design elements that make it instantly recognizable. The weapons are also known for their generated variations. Leading to thousands of possible combinations.
Many weapons incorporate elements of fantasy. Such as glowing parts, energy sources, and otherworldly designs that suggest advanced or alien technology.
Some weapons in Borderlands are designed with a sense of humor or absurdity. Including unconventional shapes or impractical features that add to the game’s quirky atmosphere.

Weapons in Borderlands, Borderlands weapon design

Borderlands Logo

The Borderlands logo is distinctive and one of the most recognizable in its genre. Featuring several key elements that define its visual identity:

1
Bold Typography
The word BORDERLANDS is written in a thick, bold, yellow font. The letters are slightly distressed. Giving them a worn, gritty appearance that matches the game's post-apocalyptic theme.
2
Iconic Circle with a Slash
Behind the text, there is a large red circle with a slash going through it. This symbol is known as the Vault symbol in the game, representing the mysterious vaults that players seek throughout the series. The slash through the circle gives it a dynamic, almost rebellious feel, which ties into the chaotic and anarchic world of the game.
3
Texture
The logo has a rough, grunge-like texture. With black splatter marks and scratches, further emphasizing the rugged and harsh environment of the Borderlands world.
4
Color Scheme
The yellow, red, and black color scheme is bold and striking, making the logo stand out while conveying a sense of urgency and danger.

Evolution of the Art Style Across Borderlands Series

The Borderlands 1 concept art and series has a distinct visual style that has evolved over the years. The original Borderlands introduced a unique blend of cel-shading and grungy, post-apocalyptic environments. This Borderlands game character concept art created a comic book-like appearance. This set the game apart from other titles at the time.

When Borderlands 2 was released, the art style was more refined. The textures became more detailed, and the color palette was richer. The game’s environments felt more vibrant and alive, with bright whites and golds contrasting against the gritty world. The Borderlands 2 art style remained like in the previous game. However, it was improved to include more subtle color transitions and realistic lighting effects. This resulted in a more organic and cohesive visual experience.

Borderlands: The Pre-Sequel continued to build on this style, but it added its own twist by setting much of the game on a moon. This allowed the developers to experiment with low-gravity video game environments (which we can do too) and stark, cold landscapes. The game’s visuals retained the bold, cartoonish look but explored new themes and settings.

By the time Borderlands 3 arrived, the series had fully embraced its visual identity. The third installment showcased more advanced graphics. With highly detailed textures and environments that felt even more immersive. Borderlands 3 art style polished to perfection, and the use of color was more dynamic. Helping to distinguish between different areas of the game. The consistency in the art style across the series helped maintain a cohesive visual experience. While the improvements added depth and richness to the world.

Unique Visual Themes in Expansions

Each expansion in the Borderlands series has introduced its own visual themes while staying true to the core art style. For example, Tiny Tina’s Assault on Dragon Keep added a fantasy twist, with medieval castles, dragons, and knights. All are rendered in the signature Borderlands style. These expansions kept the visual identity intact. But allowed for creative experimentation with new settings and themes.

Spin-offs and DLC

Spin-offs and downloadable content (DLC) have also contributed to the series’ visual evolution. Tales from the Borderlands, a narrative-driven game, retained the same look. But it focused more on character expression and storytelling. Meanwhile, other DLCs often explored new environments. Such as haunted mansions or futuristic cities. Each adding fresh visual elements while keeping the Borderlands aesthetic consistent.

In summary, the Borderlands series has successfully evolved its survival game art over time. Each new game and expansion builds on this foundation. Offering unique themes and settings while staying true to the series’ iconic visual identity.

Borderlands Series Art Style Evolution

The art style of the Borderlands series has evolved significantly from the first game to Borderlands 3. Let’s compare the key visual changes:

Borderlands 1

The first Borderlands introduced the comic book visuals. The world was rough, with a lot of browns and grays, reflecting the harsh, desert-like environments. The characters and environment had a simple, gritty look. The details were minimal, focusing more on the overall atmosphere.

A look at the Borderlands 1 art style, Borderlands 1 graphic evolution

Borderlands 1 concept art, Borderlands 1 video game art style

Borderlands: The Pre-Sequel

This game kept the cel-shading but introduced new environments. Like the moon, which brought different lighting and color schemes. The low-gravity environment and the space setting allowed for more vibrant colors. Such as purples and blues, which added diversity to the visual palette.

A look at the Borderlands The Pre Sequel art style, Borderlands The Pre Sequel graphic evolution

Graphic and visual evolution Borderlands The Pre Sequel, Borderlands The Pre Sequel character design

Borderlands 2

The sequel improved on the first game’s style with more vibrant colors and detailed textures. The environments became more varied, with snowy landscapes, lush areas, and industrial zones. Characters had more personality through their design. And the visual effects for weapons and abilities were much more polished.

A look at the Borderlands 2 art style, Borderlands 2 graphic evolution

Graphic and visual evolution Borderlands 2, Borderlands 2 character design

Borderlands 3

Borderlands 3 pushed the RPG game design even further. The textures are richer, and the environments are more dynamic and alive. The game’s world is colorful and diverse, with each area having its own distinct look. While the game stayed true to the series’ signature style, it also introduced new visual elements that made the game feel modern and fresh.

A look at the Borderlands 3 art style, Borderlands 3 graphic evolution

Graphic and visual evolution Borderlands 3, Borderlands 3 character design

Throughout the series, the cel-shaded, comic book art style remained consistent. This created a recognizable visual identity. Each game built on the previous one, improving textures, colors, and details. This kept the games looking fresh while maintaining the core visual style.

The Borderlands series shows how a consistent art style can evolve and improve over time. Keeping the games visually engaging while staying true to their roots.

Borderlands 4

With the art styles of previous Borderlands games, everything is understandable. But what should we wait for from 2K Games this time? New hyper-realistic cosmic adventures? Redoubtable antagonists on a multiverse scale in a typical Borderlands style? Mysterious artifacts that can control thousands of planets inspired by other action-adventure games? Whatever it will be, we can't wait for the Borderlands 4. In one thing we're 100% sure - it will be something grandiose.

Cultural Impact: Borderlands Movie

The Borderlands movie represents a significant event in the intersection of video games and the movie industry. With big names attached, such as Cate Blanchett and Kevin Hart, the film aimed to bring the chaotic world of Pandora to the big screen. However, early reviews suggest that it might not meet the high expectations set by fans and critics alike.

The success or failure of the Borderlands movie could influence how other video game adaptations are handled in the future. If the film doesn’t perform well, it might reinforce the idea that video games are best suited for multi-episode series rather than standalone films. This has already been seen with successful adaptations like The Last of Us, which thrived as a series rather than a single movie. The outcome of Borderlands could shape future projects, leading studios to reconsider how they approach game-to-movie adaptations.

The movie also highlights how the media influences the perception of video games. A poorly received movie can negatively affect the game’s reputation, especially for those unfamiliar with the source material. On the other hand, a successful adaptation can draw new players to the games, expanding the fan base.

Social media plays a crucial role in promoting both the game and the movie. Platforms like Twitter, Instagram, and TikTok are used to create hype, share trailers, and engage with fans. The interaction between the game’s community and the movie’s promotional team can drive interest and discussions online. However, if the film fails to resonate with the audience, the negative feedback can spread rapidly across social networks, impacting both the movie and the game’s image.

In conclusion, the Borderlands game aesthetics is a cultural milestone that could influence how video games are adapted into films. Its success or failure will likely shape future projects in the movie industry, while also impacting the game’s reputation. Social media will continue to play a vital role in how these adaptations are received and promoted, making it a key factor in the overall success of such endeavors.

The Origins of Borderlands Art Style

What Art Style is Borderlands?

Key Elements of Borderlands Art Style

Character Design

Lilith (Borderlands 1, 2, & 3)

Handsome Jack (Borderlands 2 & The Pre-Sequel)

Roland (Borderlands 1 & 2)

Maya (Borderlands 2 & 3)

Tyreen and Troy Calypso (Borderlands 3)

Claptrap (All Borderlands Games)

Borderlands-like Characters

Borderlands Characters

Comparisons to Other Art Styles in Games

Examples of Cel-Shading in Games

Differences and Similarities

Realistic vs. Stylized Graphics

Advantages and Disadvantages

Player Preferences of District 420

Borderlands Weapons

Borderlands Logo

Bold Typography

Iconic Circle with a Slash

Texture

Color Scheme

Evolution of the Art Style Across Borderlands Series

Unique Visual Themes in Expansions

Spin-offs and DLC

Borderlands Series Art Style Evolution

Borderlands 1

Borderlands: The Pre-Sequel

Borderlands 2

Borderlands 3

Borderlands 4

Cultural Impact: Borderlands Movie