Borderlands 4 Early Access Was \"Amazing\" According to Fan

A Borderlands Fan's Dream Comes True: Early Access to Borderlands 4

Cancer patient Caleb McAlpine received an incredible gift: early access to Borderlands 4, thanks to the game's community and Gearbox Software. This inspiring story highlights the power of online communities and the generosity of game developers.

A Sneak Peek at Borderlands 4

Caleb, a dedicated Borderlands fan, shared his experience on Reddit after a trip to Gearbox's studio. He and a friend were flown first-class, toured the studio, met developers, and most importantly, played the highly anticipated Borderlands 4. Caleb described the experience as "amazing," praising the game and the welcoming team he encountered, including CEO Randy Pitchford. Following the studio visit, they enjoyed a VIP tour of the Omni Frisco Hotel at The Star, further enhancing their incredible experience.

While Caleb remained tight-lipped about specific details of Borderlands 4, he emphasized the overall positive impact of the event, calling it "an amazing experience." He expressed deep gratitude to everyone who supported his request and offered encouragement during his health battle.

A Wish Granted

On October 24, 2024, Caleb initially posted on Reddit, sharing his cancer diagnosis and limited prognosis (7-12 months, possibly less than 2 years even with successful chemo). His heartfelt wish: to play Borderlands 4 before it was too late. He humbly described his request as a "long shot," but the Borderlands community rallied behind him.

The outpouring of support led to numerous contacts reaching out to Gearbox. Randy Pitchford responded swiftly on Twitter (X), initiating contact with Caleb and promising to explore options. After a month of communication, Gearbox fulfilled Caleb's wish, providing him with early access to the game ahead of its 2025 release.

A GoFundMe campaign established to assist Caleb in his fight against cancer has already exceeded its initial goal, raising over $12,415 USD. The positive attention surrounding his Borderlands 4 experience has further amplified support for his cause. This heartwarming story serves as a testament to the power of community and the positive impact of kindness.