A recent datamine has revealed that a controversial character from Borderlands 3, Ava, was cut from the upcoming Borderlands 4 and replaced with the more popular vault hunter Amara. As per the findings by modder EpicNNG, files related to Ava indicate she was supposed to team up with another character, Zane, to aid Lilith. Ava's removal seems to be a strategic decision, likely influenced by fan backlash against her character in the previous game. The dataminer suggests this change might enhance the game's reception, as players generally responded favorably to Amara and Zane's chemistry. Gearbox has not confirmed these changes but is actively working on updates, including introducing a new vault hunter named C4SH in the near future.

What are the reasons for Ava's removal from Borderlands 4?

Ava's removal appears to stem from strong negative reactions from fans regarding her characterization in Borderlands 3. Many players felt that her inclusion was forced and detracted from the story, particularly after she was implicated in the death of a beloved character. Developers at Gearbox may have considered this feedback when deciding to replace her with a more favored character, Amara, to better resonate with fans and enhance the overall game experience.

Borderlands is a franchise known for its quirky humor, diverse characters, and loot-driven gameplay. Originally launched in 2009, it quickly rose to popularity for its unique cel-shaded art style and cooperative multiplayer experience. The series has undergone various shifts in character dynamics and storytelling, leading to varied receptions for its characters, with Ava from Borderlands 3 being a particularly divisive figure among fans. As Borderlands 4 continues to develop, fans remain hopeful for a game that addresses previous concerns and brings back favorite characters while enhancing gameplay with new content.