Randy Pitchford confirmed the removal of the minimap feature in Borderlands 4, stating:

“We want you to play the game and not play the map.”

Fans will now encounter a compass bar aimed at streamlining navigation instead of the conventional minimap. Pitchford addressed this shift during a recent Q&A panel at PAX East, urging players to refrain from judgment until they have personally experienced the game.

The decision aligns with Pitchford’s vision for an immersive experience in Borderlands 4, which is set on Kairos, a new planet with an expansive map designed for exploration without the limitations of a minimap. He explained that the traditional 2D maps can complicate navigation, especially in complex environments with multi-level designs.

“There’s no load times; you can see something miles away and get there instantly,” Pitchford elaborated, aiming to enhance player spatial awareness with new mechanics.

Borderlands 4 is scheduled for release on September 12, 2025, well ahead of its initial timeline, reflecting the studio’s confidence in the title.