With the highly anticipated PC release of Borderlands 4 set for today, final review scores have begun to emerge, and there’s a consensus that the edgy looter shooter has returned to its roots.

Gearbox Software’s Borderlands series became an instant cult sensation upon the launch of the original in 2009 for the Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3. The series sustained its high quality with Borderlands 2, but faced some backlash from fans who thought Borderlands 3 offered a different core experience, although it still garnered positive reviews since its release. For long-time supporters, this meant that Borderlands 4 had big shoes to fill, especially after the incredibly poorly received film adaptation from Lionsgate, which was akin to a critical disaster.

Despite the franchise consistently maintaining a strong performance, Borderlands 4 is launching today, and its early reception is already available. While the series has always been well-regarded, Borderlands 4 is debuting with an average review score of 84% on Metacritic, following over 60 reviews. CGMagazine awarded Borderlands 4 a perfect 10/10, stating, “This isn’t merely another cycle of shoot-loot-level-repeat. This is Borderlands rejuvenated. A game that recognizes where it faltered, where it excelled, and where it needed breakthroughs,” and added, “this is the finest the series has ever achieved.”

Other reviewers have also weighed in, placing Borderlands 4 as the second-best-rated game in the series, just behind Borderlands 2. Forbes’ Paul Tassi highlighted the impressive review ratings given the series’ long history, noting, “I think the game is fantastic and I’d endorse it.”

Game Informer’s Brian Shea commented, “Borderlands 4 reintroduces and refines numerous components, potentially making it my new favorite in the series,” in reference to the title’s revival after 16 years in the market. IGN echoed this sentiment in their 8/10 review, stating, “Gearbox demonstrates it still has the ability to deliver the excitement. After losing some momentum with Borderlands 3, it seemed like this franchise had started to fall behind in the genre it originated,” indicating that Borderlands 4 signifies a return to form.

At present, Borderlands 4 holds the top spot on the Steam Top Sellers (by revenue) list, and while critics are lauding the new release, fans also appear to be purchasing the game swiftly (at least on the Steam platform). Though Borderlands 4 has yet to launch on consoles, it has already made a significant impression with reviewers, with a unanimous belief that this title represents the best the series has seen in years.