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 the generosity of game developers.
Gearbox Makes a Fan's Dream Come True
A Borderlands 4 Preview
Caleb McAlpine's wish to play Borderlands 4 before its release was answered in a spectacular way. On November 26th, he recounted on Reddit his incredible journey: a first-class flight to Gearbox Studios, a tour of the facilities, meetings with developers, and, most importantly, an exclusive preview of the highly anticipated game.
"We got to play what they have for Borderlands 4 so far, and it was amazing," Caleb shared, adding details about his trip, including a VIP tour of the Dallas Cowboys World Headquarters after his visit to Gearbox. The Omni Frisco Hotel, where he stayed, also provided exceptional hospitality.
While Caleb remained tight-lipped about specific Borderlands 4 details, he emphasized the unforgettable experience. He expressed immense gratitude to everyone who championed his request, offering support during his challenging health journey.
Caleb's Plea to Gearbox
On October 24th, 2024, Caleb initially shared his heartfelt wish on Reddit. He openly discussed his cancer diagnosis, explaining his limited prognosis and his desire to experience Borderlands 4 before it was too late. His plea, described as a "long shot," resonated deeply with the Borderlands community.
An outpouring of support followed, with many contacting Gearbox to advocate on Caleb's behalf. Randy Pitchford, Gearbox's CEO, responded swiftly on Twitter (X), promising to explore ways to make Caleb's wish a reality. Within a month, Gearbox fulfilled their promise, granting Caleb early access to the game.
A GoFundMe campaign established to assist Caleb with his medical expenses has already exceeded its initial goal, reaching over $12,415 USD. The positive response to his story has further boosted donations and amplified the support for Caleb's fight.