A Borderlands fan's dream comes true: battling cancer, Caleb McAlpine receives early access to Borderlands 4. This inspiring story highlights the power of community and the generosity of Gearbox Software.

Gearbox Grants a Wish

Caleb McAlpine, a devoted Borderlands fan facing a cancer diagnosis, received an incredible gift: early access to the highly anticipated Borderlands 4. His November 26th Reddit post detailed his journey. Gearbox flew him and a friend first-class to their studio, where he met developers and experienced the game firsthand.

"We got to play what they have for Borderlands 4 so far and it was amazing," Caleb shared, recounting a trip that included a studio tour and meetings with key figures, including CEO Randy Pitchford. Following the studio visit, Caleb and his friend enjoyed a VIP tour of the Omni Frisco Hotel at The Star, further enhancing this unforgettable experience.

While remaining tight-lipped about specific Borderlands 4 details, Caleb emphasized the overwhelming positivity of the event. He expressed profound gratitude to everyone who supported his request and offered encouragement during his health battle.

A Community Rallies Behind a Fan

Caleb's initial request for early access appeared on Reddit on October 24, 2024. Openly sharing his prognosis (7-12 months, potentially less than two years even with successful chemotherapy), he expressed his wish to play Borderlands 4 before it was too late. His plea resonated deeply with the Borderlands community.

The online response was swift and powerful. Fellow fans rallied behind Caleb, spreading his story and contacting Gearbox to advocate for his wish. Randy Pitchford responded promptly on Twitter (X), initiating contact with Caleb and promising to explore options. Within a month, Gearbox fulfilled Caleb's dream, providing him with early access to the game ahead of its 2025 release.

A GoFundMe campaign established to support Caleb's fight against cancer has also seen a surge in donations, exceeding its initial goal. The outpouring of support underscores the profound impact of Caleb's story and the unifying power of the gaming community.