Borderlands 4: Elevator Clearance Guide

09/12/2025

Navigating the initial challenges of Borderlands 4's 'Recruitment Drive' mission can be perplexing, especially when confronted with a non-functional elevator. This comprehensive guide provides a straightforward solution to acquiring elevator clearance, enabling progression through the game and unlocking valuable rewards. It highlights a common sticking point for players and offers a clear, concise method to overcome this obstacle, ensuring a smoother gameplay experience.

In 'Recruitment Drive,' the second mission in Borderlands 4, players frequently encounter a seemingly simple yet frustrating puzzle: gaining elevator clearance. After battling through Rippers, defeating the Splashzone boss, and seemingly repairing the elevator for Claptrap, the lift unexpectedly malfunctions, halting progress. The game then directs players to obtain clearance without offering specific guidance, leading to potential confusion. The solution, however, is deceptively simple and requires keen observation.

To resolve the elevator issue and advance in the mission, players must first approach the non-operational lift. Upon inspection, it becomes clear that a special clearance is needed. The key to this lies not in complex machinery or hidden switches, but in the immediate surroundings. Turning away from the elevator, players will notice several deceased individuals scattered near the balcony railing. These corpses hold the crucial item required for elevator operation.

The necessary item is a glowing green device, which is conspicuously attached to the neck of any of these fallen bodies. Players simply need to interact with one of these corpses to collect the device. Once acquired, this item grants the much-needed elevator clearance. With the clearance in hand, players can then summon Claptrap, who will proceed to open the door to the Abandoned Post safehouse. This safehouse not only serves as a new fast-travel point but also rewards players with a shield, experience points, cash, and eridium, valuable resources for their journey.

The Abandoned Post is just one of many safehouses strategically located across Kairos. These safehouses are vital for players as they delve deeper into the game world, providing convenient points for resupply, character customization, and quick travel. Furthermore, unlocking these safehouses contributes to earning SDU (Storage Deck Upgrade) points. These points are crucial for enhancing inventory space, increasing ammo capacity, and improving various other character attributes, which are essential for tackling the escalating challenges and formidable bosses that await in Borderlands 4.

Successfully navigating the 'Recruitment Drive' mission's elevator clearance puzzle is a pivotal step for any player in Borderlands 4. By following the simple instruction of locating and collecting the glowing green device from a nearby corpse, players can quickly overcome this early game hurdle. This not only allows them to progress with Claptrap to the Abandoned Post safehouse, securing valuable rewards and a new fast-travel point, but also provides essential SDU points for vital character upgrades. Mastering these initial mechanics sets the stage for a more effective and enjoyable exploration of Kairos, preparing players for future encounters and challenges within the game's expansive world.