Stepping into the chaotic world of Kairos in Borderlands 4 means mastering a completely revamped control scheme that goes far beyond simple shooting. With revolutionary movement mechanics like gliding and grappling, plus enhanced combat systems, knowing your controls inside and out is the difference between becoming a legendary Vault Hunter and becoming monster food. Whether you're wielding a controller or commanding a keyboard, this guide breaks down every essential input you need to dominate Planet Kairos.
What Makes Borderlands 4 Controls Different?
The control system in Borderlands 4 represents the biggest evolution in the franchise's history. You're not just running and gunning anymore – you're gliding across vast canyons, grappling up cliff faces, and executing complex parkour sequences that would make previous Vault Hunters jealous.
The seamless open world of Kairos demands these enhanced movement options. When you can see a distant mountain peak or the Timekeeper's towering city on the horizon, you need the tools to actually reach it. That's where the new traversal mechanics shine.
tip
Practice chaining movement abilities together. A well-timed grapple into a glide can cover massive distances and give you tactical advantages in combat.
Complete Combat Controls Breakdown
Primary Combat Actions
The Action Skill button is your lifeline in tough fights. Each Vault Hunter's unique abilities can turn the tide of battle, so keep that cooldown timer in mind. Ordnance replaces traditional grenades with a cooldown-based system, meaning you'll always have explosive options available.
Advanced Movement Controls
Borderlands 4's movement system is where the magic happens. These controls transform how you navigate Kairos:
The New Gliding System - How to Glide in Borderlands 4
Gliding fundamentally changes exploration in Borderlands 4. After jumping from any elevated position, hold the jump button again to deploy your glider. You'll slowly descend while maintaining forward momentum, perfect for:
- Covering massive distances between platforms
- Dropping into enemy camps from above for surprise attacks
- Reaching otherwise inaccessible areas with hidden loot
- Escaping dangerous situations by gliding to safety
important
Gliding isn't just for traversal – it's a combat tool. Enemies have trouble tracking airborne targets, giving you precious seconds to line up shots or plan your landing.
Weapon and Equipment Management
Weapon Switching and Customization
The Licensed Parts system means every weapon drop could be a game-changer. That seemingly ordinary pistol might have Jakobs ricochet bullets combined with Maliwan elemental damage – combinations impossible in previous games.
Essential Utility Controls
Repkits are your new best friend – these aren't just health items, they're tactical support tools that can provide healing auras, shield restoration, or temporary damage boosts when you need them most.
Vehicle Controls and the Digirunner
The Digirunner is your personal hover bike that can be summoned almost anywhere on Kairos. Unlike previous Borderlands games where you hunted for Catch-A-Ride stations, your Digirunner is always available.
Digirunner Operation
The Digirunner's boost function is crucial for jumping ravines or escaping dangerous situations. In co-op, one player drives while another operates the turret – perfect for mobile combat scenarios.
Finding Vehicle Kit in Borderlands 4
Platform-Specific Optimization Tips
PlayStation 5 Advantages
- DualSense haptic feedback provides tactile information about weapon types and environmental interactions
- Adaptive triggers create unique resistance for different weapon manufacturers
- 3D audio helps locate enemies and environmental hazards during gliding sequences
Xbox Series X/S Features
- Smart Delivery ensures optimal performance across console generations
- Quick Resume lets you jump back into Kairos instantly
- Auto HDR enhances visual clarity for better target acquisition
PC Master Race Benefits
- Customizable keybinds for every function
- Higher frame rates make gliding and grappling feel incredibly smooth
- Mouse precision for those critical headshots while airborne
warning
PC players should adjust their mouse sensitivity for gliding sequences – what works for ground combat might feel too twitchy when you're soaring through the air.
Advanced Movement Techniques
Chaining Movement Abilities
The real mastery comes from combining movement options:
- Grapple + Glide Combo: Grapple to a high point, then immediately glide to extend your range
- Slide + Jump + Glide: Build momentum with a slide, jump at the end, then glide for maximum distance
- Dash + Grapple: Use dash to position for better grapple angles
- Double Jump + Glide: The double jump gives extra height for longer glide sequences
Borderlands 4 PAX West 2025 Demo: Hands ...
Combat Movement Mastery
Movement isn't just for exploration – it's essential for survival:
- Slide under attacks while maintaining weapon accuracy
- Dash sideways to avoid grenades and charging enemies
- Grapple to high ground for tactical advantages
- Glide behind cover when shields break
Co-op Control Considerations
When playing with friends, communication becomes crucial. The ping system (D-Pad Up/Middle Mouse) lets you mark enemies, loot, or objectives for your team. In vehicle sections, coordinate who drives and who shoots – the Digirunner's effectiveness doubles with proper teamwork.
Fast travel to friends is available through the map screen, ensuring your squad stays together even when someone gets distracted by a shiny loot chest.
Accessibility and Customization Options
Borderlands 4 includes extensive accessibility features:
- Button remapping for all platforms
- Hold/toggle options for sustained actions
- Colorblind support for UI elements and damage numbers
- Subtitle customization with speaker identification
Don't be afraid to experiment with control schemes. What works for other players might not work for you, especially with the new movement mechanics.
Essential Control Tips for New Players
Pro Tip: Spend time in the early tutorial areas mastering movement before tackling harder content. The muscle memory you build will save your life in intense combat situations.
The control scheme in Borderlands 4 isn't just about pressing buttons – it's about developing a flow between movement, combat, and exploration that makes you feel like the ultimate Vault Hunter. Master these controls, and Kairos becomes your playground rather than your prison.
Whether you're gliding across the Fadefields, grappling through Terminus Range's icy peaks, or sliding through Dominion's urban warfare, these controls are your gateway to becoming a legend on Planet Kairos. Practice them, perfect them, and prepare to show the Timekeeper what a real Vault Hunter can do.
For more Borderlands 4, check out our guide and learn How to Get Eridium.