Inside Borderlands 4’s SHiFT: crossplay, party privacy and modes

Table of Content

Gearbox has published a practical overview of how SHiFT supports online features in Borderlands 4. The account system underpins crossplay, matchmaking, and code redemption across platforms. The post walks through setup, platform linking, and managing parties. It also clarifies crossplay permissions, individualized difficulty in co-op, and the playlists available in matchmaking. Support paths are included for common account issues.

What SHiFT does in Borderlands 4

SHiFT is an account layer integrated with Borderlands 4 and previous Borderlands titles. It handles online matchmaking and crossplay and is the system used to redeem SHiFT codes. Codes are typically time‑limited and can be claimed once per SHiFT account; rewards include Golden Keys that grant randomized loot.

Account setup and platform linking

Players can create a free SHiFT account using an email or a platform identity (Steam, Xbox, PlayStation, Epic Games). After sign‑in, supported platform accounts can be linked in the Gaming Platforms section to sync Borderlands 4 play across services. If an age is entered incorrectly during registration, the fix requires contacting official support.

Claiming SHiFT codes and in‑game rewards

Codes can be redeemed on the SHiFT website’s Rewards area or via the in‑game SHiFT menu on the Rewards tab. Each code is single‑use per account, and many have expiration windows, so redemption timing matters. Rewards are delivered in‑game to the SHiFT‑linked profile.

Forming squads and managing friends

Party setup begins in the main menu’s Session Settings, where players pick Party Privacy: Friends Only, Invite Only, Public, or Local Only. Cross‑platform grouping uses the SHiFT friends list – search by a friend’s full SHiFT display name to add them. Platform‑level friends can also be invited by entering their platform username via the party interface.

Read also our article: Borderlands 4 arrives: platforms, combat systems, co-op explained

Crossplay controls, difficulty scaling and playlists

Before matchmaking, the Personal Crossplay toggle determines whether your party allows players from other platforms. If any member disables Personal Crossplay, crossplay is off for the entire party for that session. Session Settings also let each player set an individualized Difficulty; the game scales so co‑op partners can tune challenge without affecting each other’s progress.

Matchmaking can be launched from the main menu or from the party panel. Playlist options include Campaign missions near your progression, Ultimate Vault Hunter mode, Moxxi’s Big Encore Runs, and Weekly Wildcard missions. Ultimate Vault Hunter, Big Encore, and Weekly Wildcard unlock only after finishing the campaign and earning Ultimate Vault Hunter ranks.

Troubleshooting and support

For SHiFT‑related issues, Gearbox directs players to the 2K Support portal or to submit a support request. Including the SHiFT Support ID from your profile can speed up assistance. Account corrections – such as an incorrect age entry – also go through the same support channels.

Final takeaway – what this means for your squad

SHiFT is the backbone of Borderlands 4’s online play. Set up your account, link platforms, tune privacy and crossplay, and you’re ready to match into campaign or endgame playlists with flexible difficulty. Getting these steps right ensures smooth cross‑platform co‑op from day one.