Gearbox has put the Borderlands 4 port for the Nintendo Switch 2 on hold. This decision, revealed in a recent 2K Interactive earnings call, means the game will not be coming to the new console anytime soon. The company stated its focus is now on optimizing the game for its current platforms. It's unclear if the Switch 2 version will be revived later.

This news comes after the Switch 2 port was already delayed. Many suspected performance issues were the cause, as Gearbox had previously suggested the game would run at 30 FPS. Alternatively, the lower sales expectations for the Switch 2 version could have also played a role. The original Borderlands games were successful on the original Switch, but newer titles have struggled.

This pause in development reflects the challenges of bringing demanding games to handheld consoles. Developers often face optimization hurdles. The Switch 2's target audience may also be a factor in such a decision. What happens next is uncertain. Will the port be outright canceled, or will it return in the future?

It's important to consider the ongoing relationship between 2K and Nintendo. With upcoming titles like PGA Tour 2K25 and WWE 2K26, 2K is still committed to the platform. This makes the future of Borderlands 4 on the Switch 2 somewhat ambiguous. Perhaps the studio will wait for more Switch 2 units to be sold before revisiting this decision.