Borderlands 4’s Timekeeper Is the First Villain Since Jack Worth Talking About

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As a huge Borderlands fan, I don’t think any villain has ever hit quite like Handsome Jack from Borderlands 2. He was just so charismatic, yet completely ruthless, and he was *everywhere* in the game. It really made him stand out, even to people who don’t normally play Borderlands. Honestly, every game since has felt like they’ve been trying way too hard to recreate that same energy. Borderlands 3’s villains, the Calypso Twins, just felt like a cheap imitation of Jack – and way more annoying, if I’m being honest. That’s why I’m really hoping Borderlands 4 delivers a villain we can actually talk about for years to come, someone who can live up to the legacy of Handsome Jack and really bring the franchise back to life.

It looks like the Timekeeper could be the compelling villain Borderlands 4 needs. Unlike past villains who relied on over-the-top antics, he establishes fear through constant surveillance and control of the planet Kairos, making his power felt everywhere. While villains like the Calypso Twins often felt separate from the main story, the Timekeeper is deeply connected to the game’s core elements – its story, factions, and overall atmosphere. This makes him a truly memorable antagonist, something the Borderlands series hasn’t seen in over ten years.

Timekeeper Is the Closest Borderlands Has Come to Jack in Years

A Villain Who Feels Tangible and Present

Right from the start, *Borderlands 4* establishes that the Timekeeper isn’t a typical end-of-game boss. You feel his influence constantly through “command bolts” that connect him to his followers, and even to you, the player. This isn’t just about cutscenes or distant threats; it’s a core gameplay element. The Timekeeper is woven into the very design of the world, making his presence on Kairos feel like an active, driving force with every action you take.

The overall tone of *Borderlands 4* actually strengthens the villain’s impact. While the main story is much darker and more serious than previous *Borderlands* games – a big shift from the series’ typically constant jokes and over-the-top humor – the side quests provide the familiar lightheartedness fans expect. This balance is key because it makes the Timekeeper feel like a genuine danger, stopping him from becoming a laughable character and reinforcing the stakes of the story.

Why Timekeeper Still Faces the Jack Problem

Despite everything, Handsome Jack remains a remarkably high standard for video game villains. What made him special was his ability to be both frightening and funny – he was charming, but also genuinely scary. His conversations outside of gameplay were full of both wit and disdain, making players feel like he was the center of the story. In contrast, The Timekeeper is more reserved and strategic, and generally keeps his emotions in check. While this gives him a strong presence, it also means he might not be as memorable or have as many iconic lines as Jack in the long run.

Despite everything, *Borderlands 4* delivers a villain who genuinely feels integrated into both the game’s story and its action. The Timekeeper doesn’t just impact the ending; he influences every decision and challenge players face on Kairos. While he might not surpass Handsome Jack in memorability, that’s not necessarily the point. He’s a fantastic villain, just a different style. Ultimately, this shows that *Borderlands* still understands what makes a villain truly compelling.

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2025-09-19 19:10