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Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Yes. Borderlands 2’s PC matchmaking update added support for cross-play between PC platforms, which covers players using Steam and the Epic Games Store. Each player must launch a copy they own. The update establishes cross-play capability, but it does not confirm that matchmaking is working right now.
How Steam–Epic cross-play works in Borderlands 2
On February 27, 2020, 2K’s official Borderlands 2 patch announcement said the PC matchmaking update added “support for future crossplay between PC platforms.” The update also introduced a matchmaking menu and SHiFT account maintenance. This is the official basis for expecting Steam and Epic PC players to play together.
| # | Preview | Product | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
|
Borderlands 2 - Xbox 360 (Renewed) | $7.94 | Buy on Amazon |
| 2 |
|
Borderlands 3 Ultimate Edition - Nintendo Switch | $19.93 | Buy on Amazon |
| 3 |
|
Borderlands: The Handsome Collection - Playstation 4 | $19.95 | Buy on Amazon |
| 4 |
|
Borderlands 2: Game of the Year Edition | $57.11 | Buy on Amazon |
| 5 |
|
Borderlands Legendary Collection | $49.00 | Buy on Amazon |
That announcement documents the feature’s implementation; it is not a current service-status notice. It does not guarantee that SHiFT or matchmaking connections are available at any particular moment.
What you need before trying to join a friend
- Each player needs access to their own copy of Borderlands 2 on their chosen storefront. Cross-play does not transfer a license from Steam to Epic or from Epic to Steam.
- Both players should have the game updated before attempting multiplayer.
- SHiFT is the account and matchmaking feature identified in the patch information. Gearbox’s SHiFT account instructions give the in-game sign-up path.
Create a SHiFT account in Borderlands 2
- Open Extras from the game’s main menu.
- Select Shift Codes, then choose Sign Up.
- Complete the on-screen account flow. For current age or account requirements, follow the live instructions on Gearbox’s support page.
Cross-play is not cross-buy
Cross-play lets players using different PC storefront versions connect through supported multiplayer functionality; it does not give either player the other storefront’s license. Epic’s ownership support page says games purchased on another platform cannot be played through Epic Games Launcher and that ownership does not transfer. So a Steam owner does not get an Epic copy automatically, and vice versa.
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#1 Best Overall
- Disc only. Original case and manual not included. Will come packaged in a generic case.
- This renewed game has been cleaned, tested, and shows minimal wear.
If Steam and Epic players cannot connect
- Check that both copies are updated.
- Check whether SHiFT or matchmaking is currently experiencing an outage or service issue. The 2020 patch announcement does not establish present-day service health.
- Use the game’s matchmaking options, but do not assume a particular friend-search, linking, or invite sequence: the available official instructions do not document the current cross-store invite steps.
Epic’s Borderlands 2 listing describes online co-op and multiplayer. Its visible “Coming Soon” availability text should not be treated as proof that cross-play was never implemented or as a reliable indicator of current storefront availability.
Quick Recap
Best Value
Rank #4
- Includes: Borderlands 2 Main Game, Captain Scarlett and her Pirate?s Booty, Mr. Torgue?s Campaign of Carnage, Sir Hammerlock?s Big Game Hunt, Tiny Tina?s Assault on Dragon Keep, Creature Slaughter Dome
Rank #3
- Two critically acclaimed Borderlands games in one package – experience Handsome Jack’s rise to power in Borderlands: The Pre-Sequel and his reign as maniacal Hyperion CEO in Borderlands 2.
- Over $100 in value and hundreds of hours of gameplay: includes all campaign add-ons, playable character packs, level cap upgrades, and assorted combat arenas previously released as downloadable content for both titles, plus dozens of additional character customizations.
- Borderlands: The Handsome Collection supports four different players on a SINGLE split screen – next generation power fully utilized!
- Pick up right where you left off! Transfer your Xbox 360, PlayStation 3, or PS Vita save files onto next-gen with cross-save.
- Explore the mayhem filled world of Pandora and its moon in amazing high definition with smooth high performance frame rates never before seen in Borderlands on consoles.
Rank #2
- YOUR VAULT HUNTER, YOUR PLAYSTYLE: Become one of four extraordinary Vault Hunters, each with unique abilities, playstyles, deep skill trees, and tons of personalization options.
- LOCK, LOAD, AND LOOT: With bazillions of guns and gadgets, every fight is an opportunity to score new gear. Firearms with self-propelling bullet shields? Check. Guns that grow legs and chase down enemies while hurling verbal insults? Yeah, got that too.
- A MAYHEM-FUELED THRILL RIDE: Discover new worlds beyond Pandora, each featuring unique environments to explore and enemies to destroy. Tear through hostile deserts, battle your way across war-torn cityscapes, navigate deadly bayous, and more!
- QUICK & SEAMLESS CO-OP ACTION: Play with a friend in online co-op, regardless of your level or mission progress. Take down enemies and challenges as a team, but reap rewards that are yours alone—no one misses out on loot.
- Includes: Borderlands 3 base game, Moxxi's Heist of the Handsome Jackpot, Guns, Love, and Tentacles: The Marriage of Wainwright & Hammerlock, Bounty of Blood, Psycho Krieg and the Fantastic Fustercluck, Designer's Cut, Director's Cut, and 30+ cosmetic items.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
