Yeah, the original Borderlands is a bland game no matter which way you slice it (best to skip it, doesn't really have a story anyway). BL2 is way better, but it gets boring pretty quick on solo, but on co-op I had a much more enjoyable experience. So I definitely recommend giving it a chance if you have someone else to play with, just wish that the character customization wasn't such an afterthought.
And this is another reason why I can't stand that antiquated, limited, and often controversial score system for reviews. If an MMO gets a bad review at launch, that 4/10 or 6/10 is going to stay there for years, even after the game has become so much better. I'd prefer they just give their opinion and whether or not they recommend the game, with unbiased explanations as to why. An MMO could be not recommended for the time being, but explained that down the line things can potentially change and for folks to keep an eye on the game until then. This is why I love Classic Game Room, no scores, no BS, just gives his opinion and lets you see the game in action. Simple.
Hey! D:
I did pretty well on my own all things considered, my main issue was also that enemies respawn (bosses too) in the same places, and fairly quickly at that when backtracking. From what I've seen on both fronts, solo & co-op get the same amount of enemies spawned, but their health is lower with damage adjusted... still doesn't change their teamwork and ability to be downright ruthless at times. Without someone to tag along and watch my back (Claptrap doesn't count), it just got really frustrating and boring for me. Lonely even, being able to conjure up a strategy with a co-op partner and watching said plan work out just gives the game that special layer of enjoyment.
Pssh, I saved your tail just as many times... okay and maybe got you killed a few times, but hey! Still got the job done.