Borderlands 3 launched on Steam in September 2019, marking a major shift for Gearbox Software as the shooter franchise expanded to the platform. This release brought the full cooperative mayhem to PC gamers outside the launcher ecosystem, delivering the signature loot grind and humor on Valve\'s marketplace.
For players tracking availability, performance, and value, the following details clarify how the Steam release fits into the broader rollout and what to expect from version and pricing decisions.
| Platform | Initial Release Date | Standard Edition Price | Premium Edition Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Steam | 13 September 2019 | $39.99 | $59.99 |
| Epic Games Store | 13 September 2019 | $39.99 | $59.99 |
| PlayStation 4 | 13 September 2019 | $39.99 | $59.99 |
| Xbox One | 13 September 2019 | $39.99 | $59.99 |
| Steam (Ultimate) | 26 May 2020 | $99.99 (base + DLC) | |
Steam Version Differences
Feature Parity and Cloud Saves
The Steam release includes almost all features found on console and original Epic versions, including shared save progress via Gearbox cloud. Cross-save between Epic and Steam was not enabled at launch and remains limited, so players should verify platform choice carefully to avoid fragmentation.
Performance and Overlay Integration
Steam Deck compatibility was added with a verified profile and performance tweaks for handheld mode, while the Steam overlay supports achievements, friends, and in-game browser. On high-end PCs, the game runs at high frame rates and benefits from Steam Workshop mods where enabled.
System Requirements and Technical Details
Borderlands 3 on Steam targets modern hardware, and meeting recommended specs ensures stable 4K or high refresh play. The Windows version supports DX11 and DX12 backends, and performance tuning varies by GPU architecture and CPU pairing.
Version History, Patches, and Balance Updates
Major Patches and Season Content
Gearbox rolled out extensive patches to address exploits, enemy scaling, and loot drop tuning across seasons. Steam players automatically receive these updates, but review notes for each major patch to anticipate balance shifts, UI changes, and new activity rotations.
Key Takeaways and Recommendations
- Steam launched Borderlands 3 in September 2019, bringing full cooperative action to the platform.
- Check platform restrictions before purchase, as cross-save between Epic and Steam is not available.
- Review system and recommended specs to match visual settings and desired frame rates.
- Keep the game updated and review patch notes for balance adjustments each season.
- Understand refund policies and Deck compatibility for a smooth PC experience.
FAQ
Reader questions
Can I play Borderlands 3 on Steam with a previous save from Epic?
Cross-save between Epic Games Store and Steam is not supported, so existing progress remains platform-locked at this time.
Does Steam offer the Premium Edition with season pass included?
Yes, the Premium Edition on Steam includes the base game and access to all major season passes and story DLC released through the Borderlands 3 lifecycle.
Are Steam Deck and Proton supported for Borderlands 3?
Valve verified Borderlands 3 on Steam Deck with an optimized profile, and Proton compatibility generally works, though native Linux performance varies by distribution and driver stack.
Can I return or refund Borderlands 3 on Steam if I am not satisfied?
Steam offers a refund window typically within 14 days and under two hours of playtime, allowing players to test the game risk-free within policy limits.