The gaming industry has its next controversy: no technical disaster, no postponement – just one sentence. Randy Pitchford, head of Gearbox, has caused a stir with a nostalgic comparison. When the question arose on social media as to whether Borderlands 4 would actually cost around 90 euros, Pitchford responded evasively – and provoked many fans with a follow-up comment that made them lose their patience.
Between nostalgia and reality
He recalled how he saved up for a game for $80 in the early 90s – despite working a minimum wage job after school. From this, he concluded that true fans would find a way even today. This statement came as a slap in the face to many. In times of rising rents, food prices, and global crises, such statements sound like something from another world to many.
“Not my call… If you’re a real fan, you’ll find a way to make it happen.”
Borderlands 4 boss responded to fans asking him not to price the game at $80 pic.twitter.com/RKly8bHTJx
— Dexerto (@Dexerto) May 20, 2025
Pitchford’s position is not entirely unfounded: The costs of modern AAA titles are skyrocketing, with the development of Borderlands 4 reportedly twice as expensive as its predecessor. Nevertheless, anyone who justifies the budget must also explain it to the players – and not romanticize it.
The public outcry is therefore also a call for respect. Games are no longer a luxury item for the few, but an important hobby for millions – and a cultural medium with responsibility.
Borderlands 4 – Price, gameplay & real fan patience
Only now is it becoming clear what is actually behind the price debate: Borderlands 4 will not only be more expensive, but also bigger. With the new planet Kairos as its setting, dynamic weather, flowing areas, and expanded movement options such as double jumps and grappling hooks, the game promises real progress.
Four new Vault Hunters are joining the fray, including the siren Vex with mystical powers and the heavily armored Rafa. Players can therefore expect a consistent evolutionary step rather than a rehash. The release date has been set for September 12, 2025 – earlier than originally planned. A clever move, presumably to avoid the intense attention surrounding GTA6.
The price remains a controversial issue, however. Because even if production costs are rising, the community is becoming more aware: For many, it’s not just what a game offers that counts, but also how fairly it treats its fans.
