So you've slain a badass, watched that sweet orange glow erupt from their corpse, and then...disaster strikes! You're over-encumbered, need to dash back to a vending machine, or simply get distracted. The big question lingers: Do items despawn in Borderlands 1?
The short answer is: **Yes, items *can* despawn in Borderlands 1.**
However, there's a bit more nuance to it. Items aren't on a strict timer, disappearing after a set number of seconds. Despawning is primarily triggered by:
* **Distance:** Moving too far away from dropped loot significantly increases the likelihood it will vanish when you return.
* **Loading New Areas:** Entering a different zone or fast traveling is almost a guaranteed way to lose any unclaimed gear.
* **Quantity of Items:** The game has a limit to how many loose items can exist in a single area. When that limit is reached, older items will despawn to make room for newer ones.
So, the golden rule is: snag that loot quickly! Don't risk that legendary disappearing forever. Happy Vault Hunting!
