As excitement builds for the release of Borderlands 4, fans are eagerly awaiting more details from developer Gearbox Software. One pressing concern among the community is the game's price, rumored to be over $80. In a recent Twitter (X) post on May 14, Gearbox CEO Randy Pitchford addressed a fan's concern about the high cost, stating that while the pricing isn't his decision, true fans will find a way to purchase the game.
This statement sparked significant backlash among fans, who expressed their frustration in the comments section. Many felt that Pitchford's response was dismissive, with some suggesting that additional costs like season passes and skins could push the total expenditure even higher.
During a PAX East panel on May 10, Pitchford elaborated on the pricing issue, noting the increasing budgets and costs associated with game development. He mentioned that Borderlands 4's development budget is more than double that of Borderlands 3, yet he remained non-committal about the final price, leaving fans uncertain and disappointed by his comments about what constitutes a "real fan."
Take-Two’s Response on Pricing
In contrast, Take-Two Interactive, the game's publisher, adopted a more measured approach to the pricing discussion. In an interview with IGN, Take-Two CEO Strauss Zelnick emphasized the value that their games provide compared to other entertainment options. He reiterated the company's commitment to offering more value than the price charged, suggesting that consumers are willing to pay for top-quality entertainment.
Zelnick further explained in an interview with GamesIndustry.biz on May 16 that Take-Two employs variable pricing, tailoring costs based on the value of each game. This approach was highlighted by the $50 price tag set for the upcoming game Mafia: The Old Country, and rumors of GTA VI potentially costing over $100.
Recent developments within the Borderlands series, including review bombing due to EULA changes, underline the importance of listening to fan feedback. As Gearbox navigates the controversy surrounding Borderlands 4's pricing, it's clear that understanding and responding to community concerns will be crucial.
Borderlands 4 is slated for release on September 12, 2025, and will be available on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, Nintendo Switch 2, and PC. Stay tuned for more updates on this highly anticipated game.
