Fan Calls Borderlands 4 Early Access "Amazing"

Borderlands 4 Early Access Was "Amazing" According to Fan

Borderlands enthusiast Caleb McAlpine, who is courageously battling cancer, was granted the extraordinary opportunity to experience Borderlands 4 early, thanks to the dedicated efforts of the game's community and Gearbox. This touching story highlights the power of community and the impact of fulfilling a fan's heartfelt wish.

Gearbox Fulfilled a Fan's Wish

Borderlands 4 Sneak Peek

Caleb McAlpine, a devoted Borderlands fan facing a cancer battle, had his dream come true when he was invited to Gearbox's studio to try out the highly anticipated Borderlands 4. On November 26, Caleb shared his experience on Reddit, describing how Gearbox flew him and a friend first-class to their studio on the 20th of the month. There, they toured the facility and met an incredible team, including developers from all Borderlands games and the CEO, Randy Pitchford.

After this unforgettable visit, Caleb and his friend stayed at the Omni Frisco Hotel at The Star, near The Dallas Cowboys World Headquarters. The hotel, eager to contribute to Caleb's special experience, arranged a VIP tour of the facility for them. While Caleb refrained from sharing specifics about Borderlands 4 itself, he described the overall event as "amazing" and "awesome," expressing gratitude for the support and love shown by the community and Gearbox.

Caleb's Request to Gearbox

Prior to his visit, on October 24, 2024, Caleb reached out to the Borderlands community via Reddit, sharing his dire medical situation. Diagnosed with cancer and given a prognosis of 7-12 months, with the possibility of extending to less than two years if chemotherapy was successful, Caleb expressed his wish to play Borderlands 4 before his time ran out. He asked if anyone could help him connect with Gearbox to see if there was a way to access the game early, acknowledging that it was a "long shot."

The response was overwhelming. The Borderlands community rallied around Caleb, spreading his message and contacting Gearbox to advocate for his wish. Within the same day, Gearbox's CEO, Randy Pitchford, responded via Twitter (X), stating that he was in communication with Caleb via email and committed to making something happen. After about a month of correspondence, Gearbox made Caleb's dream a reality, granting him early access to Borderlands 4 before its 2025 release.

Additionally, a GoFundMe campaign was set up to support Caleb in his ongoing battle against cancer. The campaign has raised over $12,415 USD, surpassing the initial $9,000 goal, as more people continue to support Caleb's cause, inspired by his story and the chance to play Borderlands 4.