Borderlands 4 players have a new reason to dive back into the popular looter-shooter. The highly anticipated Mad Ellie and the Vault of the Damned DLC is now available, offering fans an exciting mix of new weapons, missions, and the introduction of a brand-new Vault Hunter, Cash (or Korish, depending on your pronunciation preference). Whether you're a long-time fan or just exploring the world of Borderlands for the first time, here’s a complete guide to help you start this thrilling new expansion.

Requirements to Begin the DLC

Before jumping into the new content, there is one important prerequisite for players who want to experience the DLC with an existing character. You must first complete Borderlands 4’s fourth main mission, titled A Lot to Process. Once this mission is finished and the character Zadra is safe, you’ll gain access to the Mad Ellie and the Vault of the Damned expansion. For those who already have this mission completed, the next steps are straightforward.

How to Start the DLC with an Existing Character

To begin the new missions with your current character, follow these detailed instructions:

1. Fast Travel Location: Navigate to Zadra’s Backup Plan located in the Dissected Plateau region.

2. Look for the Red Exclamation Mark: After ensuring the DLC is installed, open your map. You will notice a red exclamation point near Zadra’s Backup Plan’s fast travel marker. This is labeled as "an invitation."

3. Locate the Statue: After fast traveling, proceed into the larger room beyond the vending machines. On the left-hand side, you’ll spot a large and imposing statue.

4. Interact to Begin: Approach and interact with the statue. This will trigger the opening cutscene, marking the beginning of your journey into the Vault of the Damned.

Starting Fresh with the New Vault Hunter: Cash

If you’re eager to explore the game with the DLC’s new Vault Hunter, Cash, or if you want to create a new character for the experience, starting fresh is incredibly easy. Borderlands 4 allows players to skip the early portions of the game and dive straight into the new content. Here’s how:

• From the Main Menu, select the option for a New Game.
• Choose the mode labeled "Mad Ellie and the Vault of the Damned."
• You can select Cash or any of the game’s Vault Hunters to begin your adventure.

Starting this way eliminates the concern of being underleveled for the new challenges. Your character will automatically begin at level 13, matching the DLC’s difficulty curve. Players need to assign their skill points but will start with a standard weapon loadout that includes:

• Four guns,
• A shield,
• An ordinance,
• And a rep kit.

This ensures you are prepared to face the dangers of this new adventure right from the start.

Catching Up on the Main Story

If you choose to skip the main game and are worried about missing essential context, Borderlands 4 has you covered. The developers have included a simple way to catch up on the story so far. Once you enter the DLC’s new area, follow these steps:

1. Turn around and head back towards Zadra’s Backup Plan.
2. Interact with the "way zone" nearby.
3. This triggers a recap cutscene summarizing the events of the base game’s first four missions.

This feature ensures players are up to speed before embarking on the Mad Ellie adventure.

Tips for the Vault of the Damned DLC

• Explore Carefully: As always, loot is king in Borderlands. Make sure to explore every corner of the new areas for gear and secrets.
• Skill Points Matter: When starting at level 13, put thought into how you distribute your skill points for maximum effectiveness.
• Pay Attention to Story Clues: The Vault of the Damned DLC introduces deeper lore in the Borderlands universe. Take your time to absorb the narrative details.

What’s New in the DLC

The Mad Ellie and the Vault of the Damned expansion is packed with fresh content for players. Highlights include:

• New Vault Hunter: Cash (or Korish for the pronunciation sticklers) offers a new way to experience the game.
• Unique Weapons and Gear: Discover a variety of fresh weapons to add to your arsenal.
• Challenging Missions: Dive into a rich narrative and face new enemies as you unravel the mysteries of the Vault of the Damned.
• Exciting Locations: The DLC takes players to new, dangerous environments filled with unique challenges.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re continuing your Borderlands 4 journey with an existing character or starting fresh with the charismatic Cash, the Mad Ellie and the Vault of the Damned DLC offers plenty of exciting content. By following the steps outlined above, you’ll be ready to tackle the adventure and uncover the secrets lurking in the Vault of the Damned. Gear up, and good luck in your fight for loot and glory!

For players looking for additional tips and insights, be sure to consult the Borderlands wiki and community forums for the best strategies and hidden secrets.