While Borderlands 3 fans have been quick to point out some of the game’s flaws, many do love the 2019 release. As such, the Borderlands 3 communiy has been quick to show their appreciation for the game in several ways - though one fan’s use of nail art is particularly special.
Usually, the methods for fan creations inspired by Borderlands take on the two art forms seen in other gaming communities. For those with a knack for drawing or painting, fan art has been a consistent way to showcase some love for Gearbox’s wacky looter shooters. Fans with a passion for props and the dedication to become their favorite characters will share some Borderlands-themed cosplay, with many perfectly capturing the series’ cel-shaded art style.
What makes the post from Reddit user Thexty so interesting, however, is the fact that it does not fall into the fan art or cosplay category. Instead, it pulls from elements of both. Like fan art, the image features several artistic renditions of figures from the Borderlands series. However, like cosplay, there is a real-world element, as Thexty has changed something on their person to match the Borderlands world. In particular, the fan painted their nails and attached some imagery pulled directly from the franchise.
The first nail is possibly the most fitting, as the entirety of it is taken up by a psycho mask. This ensures that it stands out the most, as it is impossible not to spot the details on the iconic enemy’s mask. The next finger showcases Claptrap, with the talkative robot fitting perfectly against a white backdrop. While he may not be able to go up stairs, Thexty will be able to carry him wherever they go. Next up is another psycho, with the fan featuring the one from the Borderlands 3 cover art this time around.
The final two nails represent a corrosive damage achievement and the Vault symbol, with both looking great against their darker backdrops. With the achievement likely being significant to the player, and the symbol being incredibly important due to the franchise’s reliance on Vaults and Vault Hunters, these are both fine additions. As pointed out by Thexty, they painted each nail with their chosen background color before adding on the images. The player then made the decals by printing off incredibly small images, cutting them with tiny scissors, and sticking them onto each nail. Clearly, the process took some effort, though it turned out very well based on the image shared by the fan.
Thus far, Reddit has responded extremely well to this unique Borderlands creation. With Tiny Tina’s Wonderlands set to debut early in 2022, Thexty could have a lot more opportunities for nail art in the future.
Borderlands 3 is available now on PC, PS4, PS5, Stadia, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X.