"Borderlands 4 Early Access Wows Fans"

Caleb McAlpine, a dedicated Borderlands fan facing a cancer battle, recently lived out a dream: playing the upcoming Borderlands 4 thanks to the game's community and Gearbox Software. His inspiring story highlights the power of online support and a company's compassionate response.

Gearbox's Heartwarming Gesture

A Borderlands 4 Preview

Caleb McAlpine's wish to experience Borderlands 4 before it's official release became a reality. On November 26th, he recounted his incredible journey on Reddit: a first-class flight to Gearbox Studios, a studio tour, meetings with developers, and, most importantly, a hands-on preview of the highly anticipated game.

"We got to play what they have for Borderlands 4 so far, and it was amazing," Caleb shared. His trip included a tour of the studio, meetings with developers, and even a chance to meet Randy Pitchford, Gearbox's CEO.

Following his time at Gearbox, Caleb and a friend enjoyed a VIP tour of the Omni Frisco Hotel at The Star, home to the Dallas Cowboys World Headquarters. The hotel's generous hospitality added another layer to his unforgettable experience.

While Caleb remained tight-lipped about specific Borderlands 4 details, he emphasized the overall impact: "an amazing experience, just awesome." He expressed immense gratitude to everyone who supported his request and offered their kindness during his challenging time.

Caleb's Plea and the Community's Response

On October 24th, 2024, Caleb initially shared his heartfelt wish on Reddit. He openly discussed his cancer diagnosis and prognosis, explaining his desire to play Borderlands 4 before his time was up. His plea, described as a "long shot," resonated deeply with the Borderlands community.

An outpouring of support followed, with many reaching out to Gearbox to advocate for Caleb's wish.

Randy Pitchford responded swiftly on Twitter(X), promising to explore options. After a month of communication, Gearbox fulfilled Caleb's request, allowing him early access to the game, slated for a 2025 release.

A GoFundMe campaign continues to support Caleb's fight against cancer. The campaign has already exceeded its initial goal of $9,000, currently standing at $12,415 USD, boosted by the heartwarming news of his Borderlands 4 experience.