A Borderlands Fan's Dream Comes True: Early Access to Borderlands 4
Caleb McAlpine, a dedicated Borderlands fan battling cancer, recently received an incredible gift: early access to the highly anticipated Borderlands 4. Thanks to the outpouring of support from the gaming community and Gearbox Software, Caleb's wish to play the game before its official release was fulfilled.
A Dream Come True at Gearbox Studios
On November 26th, Caleb shared his extraordinary experience on Reddit. Gearbox flew him and a friend first-class to their studio, where they toured the facilities, met developers, and most importantly, played Borderlands 4. Caleb described the experience as "amazing," highlighting the opportunity to interact with the team, 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 their memorable trip.
While Caleb remained tight-lipped about specific details of Borderlands 4, he emphasized the overall "amazing" and "awesome" nature of the experience, expressing gratitude for the overwhelming support he received.
From Reddit Request to Reality
Caleb's journey began on October 24th, 2024, with a heartfelt Reddit post. He openly shared his cancer diagnosis and limited prognosis, expressing his earnest desire to play Borderlands 4 before it was too late. His plea resonated deeply with the Borderlands community, sparking a wave of support and prompting numerous individuals to contact Gearbox.
Randy Pitchford responded swiftly on Twitter (X), initiating contact with Caleb and promising to explore options. Within a month, Gearbox made Caleb's dream a reality.
Community Support Continues
A GoFundMe campaign established to assist Caleb with his medical expenses has exceeded its initial goal, reaching over $12,415 USD. The story of his Borderlands 4 experience has further amplified the campaign's reach, inspiring more people to contribute. Caleb's story serves as a testament to the power of community and the unwavering spirit of gamers.