A Borderlands Fan's Dream Comes True: Early Access to Borderlands 4
Caleb McAlpine, a dedicated Borderlands fan battling cancer, recently received an incredible gift: early access to the highly anticipated Borderlands 4. His story is a testament to the power of community and the generosity of game developers.
A Wish Granted by Gearbox
In a heartwarming Reddit post on November 26th, Caleb recounted his experience. Gearbox Software, the game's developer, flew him and a friend first-class to their studio. There, he met developers, including CEO Randy Pitchford, and played a preview of Borderlands 4.
"We got to play what they have for Borderlands 4 so far and it was amazing," Caleb shared, adding details about the studio tour and the warm welcome he received. His trip extended to a VIP tour of the Omni Frisco Hotel at The Star, courtesy of the hotel's generous offer.
While Caleb remained tight-lipped about specific game details, he emphasized the incredible experience and expressed deep gratitude for the support he received.
From Long Shot to Reality
Caleb's journey began on October 24th, 2024, with a heartfelt Reddit post outlining his medical prognosis (7-12 months, possibly less than 2 years even with successful chemotherapy) and his wish to play Borderlands 4 before it was too late. His plea, initially described as a "long shot," resonated deeply with the Borderlands community.
The outpouring of support led to numerous contacts reaching out to Gearbox. Randy Pitchford responded swiftly on Twitter (X), promising to explore options. Within a month, Caleb's dream became a reality.
A GoFundMe campaign established to support Caleb's medical expenses has also seen a surge in donations, exceeding $12,415 USD. The positive attention surrounding his Borderlands 4 experience has further amplified the campaign's success. This inspiring story highlights the power of community and the compassionate response of the gaming world.