Control the Chaos of Claptrap’s Chatter
Borderlands 4, set to release on September 12, 2025, brings a long-awaited feature that lets players tame the iconic, yet polarizing, robot Claptrap by introducing a dedicated volume slider for his voice. Revealed by Twitch partner Chadly via a screenshot of the game’s audio settings, this slider allows players to adjust or completely mute Claptrap’s relentless banter, addressing years of fan feedback about his often grating commentary. Narrative director Sam Winkler teased that the feature includes unique dialogue, hinting at a humorous nod to a “terrible accent” from a classic immersive sim, possibly Deus Ex. This addition caters to players who find Claptrap’s overenthusiastic personality overwhelming, while still allowing fans of his quirky humor to amplify his presence up to 200%. Combined with the game’s refined humor, expansive skill trees, and seamless open-world on the planet Kairos, this quality-of-life update enhances the co-op FPS experience, making it a standout in the looter-shooter series.
A Playful Nod to Fan Feedback
The Claptrap volume slider is more than just a functional setting; it’s Gearbox’s playful acknowledgment of the robot’s divisive reputation since his debut in 2009. While some players adore Claptrap’s comedic antics, others have long requested a way to dial down his constant quips, which can overshadow the game’s action-packed moments. The slider, spotted during a hands-on event, has sparked excitement across the community, with reactions ranging from relief (“Thank God. I think most people are tired of him”) to humorous speculation that lowering the volume might trigger Claptrap to yell even louder or deliver meme-quality audio. Beyond this feature, Borderlands 4 promises a massive sandbox world, new Vault Hunters, and improved mechanics like grappling hooks and enhanced movement. While some fans suspect the slider might be a comedic gag, its inclusion reflects Gearbox’s commitment to player choice, ensuring everyone can tailor their experience when the game launches on PC, PS5, Xbox Series X/S, and Nintendo Switch 2.
