Nintendo Switch fans can finally play Borderlands 3 on the go with the launch of Borderlands 3: Ultimate Edition on the hybrid platform. Developed by Gearbox Entertainment, which may or may not be acquired by Take-Two Interactive, this looter shooter recently made headlines for its newfound portability and a certain “sizeable” hiccup.
Here’s the scoop. An observant Redditor highlighted the physical Switch box indicating a whopping 62 GB download, a revelation that raised quite a few eyebrows. You might think, “Isn’t Borderlands 3 a massive game?” True, but seasoned gamers are accustomed to Switch ports being optimized to not be so… gargantuan. Before panic could spread through the internet, Gearbox swiftly jumped into damage control mode.
On the game’s official Twitter account, the developers clarified, “Actual file size is 23.5 GB.” It admitted the initial size was submitted during packaging but further optimization trimmed it down. To break it down further, while the base game takes up 8.5 GB, the DLCs consume 15 GB. The cherry on top? Players can individually install each DLC, choosing what they fancy.
We're seeing technically incorrect reports that Borderlands 3 Ultimate Edition file size on Switch is 62 GB. Actual file size is 23.5 GB
We had to submit a file size at packaging time but kept working to optimize it. Exact breakdown:
Total: 23.5 GB
Base game: 8.5 GB
DLC: 15 GB— Borderlands (@Borderlands) October 5, 2023
Speaking of DLCs, the “Ultimate Edition” is quite the treasure trove. From the base game to Moxxi’s Heist, Guns, Love, and Tentacles, Bounty of Blood, Psycho Krieg, Designer’s Cut, Director’s Cut, and more than 30 cosmetic items, it’s a buffet. Delving into specifics, the Designer’s Cut presents a new skill tree for each character, with a nifty roguelike mode titled Arms Race. On the other hand, Director’s Cut offers a raid boss, glimpses of in-progress gameplay, and a hearty laugh with some glitches and bloopers.
It’s worth noting that while the Nintendo Switch rendition might not flaunt the graphic prowess of its PlayStation and Xbox counterparts, it doesn’t skimp on content. So, while you might compromise a tad on visuals, the co-op shooter action on the go makes it a sweet deal.
Yet, the game’s size did strike a chord, highlighting an ongoing predicament for Nintendo enthusiasts. Even though the Switch has been a beloved console since its 2017 debut, it’s evident that it’s feeling its age. Especially when the file size for Borderlands 3 edges close to the max storage of the Switch OLED model, which sits at 64 GB. This revelation further fueled the thirst for the Switch’s still-elusive successor. The gaming community pines for more storage space, especially considering that current-gen games are only expanding in size.
Meanwhile there was a rumor milling about the Switch version of the game being a subpar port. This isn’t an unfamiliar story, recalling the less impressive ports of games like Mortal Kombat 1. However, Gearbox was quick to refute similar claims. Reviews highlight that while there are certain graphic compromises, the game remains playable and enjoyable. Surprisingly, it runs between 45 to 60 FPS, making it a seamless experience for players.
The release of Borderlands 3 on the Nintendo Switch provides a temporary breath of relief for its developers, which are currently struggling to stay afloat. Two years after Embracer Group finalized the acquisition, both companies are now facing tough times.
