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

Caleb McAlpine, a devoted Borderlands fan facing a cancer diagnosis, 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 connection and compassionate support.

Gearbox Makes a Fan's Dream Come True

A Borderlands 4 Preview

Caleb McAlpine's heartfelt wish to play Borderlands 4 before his passing was answered in a remarkable way. On November 26th, he recounted his incredible experience on Reddit: a first-class flight to Gearbox's studio, a tour of the facilities, meetings with developers, and most importantly, a sneak peek at the highly anticipated game.

"We got to play what they have for Borderlands 4 so far, and it was amazing," Caleb shared. His journey included a meeting with CEO Randy Pitchford and other key figures from the Borderlands development team.

Following his visit to 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 generosity added another layer to this already unforgettable experience.

While Caleb remained tight-lipped about specific Borderlands 4 details, he emphasized the overwhelming positivity of the event. His gratitude extended to everyone who helped make his wish a reality.

A Community Rallies Behind a Fan

Caleb's initial plea for help appeared on Reddit on October 24th, 2024. He openly shared his cancer diagnosis and limited prognosis, expressing his desire to experience Borderlands 4 before it was too late.

His "long shot" request resonated deeply with the passionate Borderlands community. An outpouring of support followed, with many reaching out to Gearbox to advocate on Caleb's behalf.

Randy Pitchford's swift and positive response on Twitter(X) signaled a turning point. After a month of communication, Gearbox fulfilled Caleb's wish, providing early access to the game ahead of its 2025 release.

A GoFundMe campaign continues to support Caleb's fight against cancer. The campaign has already surpassed its initial goal, fueled by the heartwarming story of his Borderlands 4 experience. The global gaming community is rallying around Caleb, demonstrating the power of collective compassion.