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

A Borderlands fan battling cancer receives an incredible early access experience to Borderlands 4. Caleb McAlpine's wish to play the highly anticipated game before his passing was fulfilled by the game's developer, Gearbox, and its supportive community.

Gearbox Grants a Dying Fan's Wish

Caleb McAlpine, a devoted Borderlands fan facing a life-threatening illness, recently shared his heartfelt desire to experience Borderlands 4 before succumbing to cancer. His Reddit post on October 24th, 2024, detailing his prognosis and wish, quickly garnered widespread attention. He openly stated his limited time, expressing hope that someone could connect him with Gearbox.

This plea touched the hearts of many within the Borderlands community. The outpouring of support led to Gearbox CEO Randy Pitchford personally responding, initiating communication with Caleb. Within a month, Gearbox made Caleb's dream a reality.

An Amazing Borderlands 4 Preview

On November 20th, Caleb and a friend were flown first-class to Gearbox's studio. They received a studio tour, met developers, including CEO Randy Pitchford, and most importantly, played a preview build of Borderlands 4. Caleb described the experience as "amazing," highlighting the opportunity to play the game and meet the team behind it. The trip extended beyond the studio visit, including a VIP tour of the Omni Frisco Hotel at The Star, home to the Dallas Cowboys headquarters.

While Caleb refrained from disclosing specific details about Borderlands 4 gameplay, his gratitude for the experience was evident. He expressed immense appreciation for the support he received from the community, emphasizing the positive impact of their collective efforts.

Community Support and Ongoing Efforts

Caleb's story is a testament to the power of online communities and the compassion of game developers. His initial request, deemed a "long shot," became a reality thanks to the collective action of fellow gamers and Gearbox's responsiveness. A GoFundMe campaign launched to help Caleb with his medical expenses has already surpassed its initial goal, demonstrating the continued support he's receiving. This heartwarming tale underscores the importance of community and the human element within the gaming world.