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

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

Cancer patient Caleb McAlpine recently fulfilled a lifelong dream: playing Borderlands 4 early, thanks to the Borderlands community and Gearbox Software. His inspiring story highlights the power of online community and corporate compassion.

A Sneak Peek at Borderlands 4

In a heartwarming Reddit post on November 26th, Caleb detailed his incredible experience. Gearbox flew him and a friend first-class to their studio, where they toured the facilities, met developers, and most importantly, played the highly anticipated Borderlands 4. Caleb described the game as "amazing," offering a glimpse into the excitement without revealing specific details. The trip extended beyond the studio; the Omni Frisco Hotel, recognizing Caleb's situation, provided a VIP tour of their facilities, adding another layer to his memorable journey.

While remaining tight-lipped about the game's content, Caleb emphasized the overwhelmingly positive experience, expressing gratitude for the outpouring of support he received.

Caleb's Plea and the Community's Response

On October 24th, 2024, Caleb initially shared his wish on Reddit. Facing a terminal cancer diagnosis with a prognosis of 7-12 months, he expressed his desire to play Borderlands 4 before passing. His heartfelt request, initially described as a "long shot," quickly gained traction within the passionate Borderlands community.

The response was immediate and overwhelming. Fellow fans rallied to support Caleb, spreading his request far and wide. Gearbox CEO Randy Pitchford personally responded on Twitter (X), initiating contact with Caleb and promising to explore options. Within a month, Gearbox made Caleb's dream a reality.

A GoFundMe campaign established to assist Caleb with his medical expenses has also seen a surge in donations, surpassing $12,415 USD, exceeding its initial goal. The story of his Borderlands 4 experience has further amplified support for his cause. Caleb's journey serves as a testament to the power of community and the positive impact of shared human experiences.