"Borderlands 4 CEO: $80 Price No Issue for True Fans"

As the release date for Borderlands 4 approaches, excitement is building, but so is concern over its potential pricing. Developer Gearbox Software has been forthcoming about many aspects of the game, yet the price remains a mystery, leaving fans worried that it might exceed $80. In a tweet on May 14, Gearbox CEO Randy Pitchford addressed a fan's concern about the high cost, stating that the pricing decision isn't his to make and that true fans will find a way to acquire the game.

This response sparked significant backlash among fans, who expressed their frustration in the comments. Many felt that Pitchford's statement was dismissive, with some users pointing out that additional costs like season passes and skins could push the total even higher, making the base price of $80 seem even more unreasonable.

During a PAX East panel on May 10, Pitchford acknowledged the rising costs of game development, mentioning that Borderlands 4 has a development budget more than double that of Borderlands 3. He emphasized the increasing expenses and tariffs associated with game production, yet remained non-committal about the final price, leaving it open to the possibility of being $80. This ambiguity and the implication that fans who can't afford the game are not "real fans" have left many feeling alienated and reconsidering their purchase.

Take-Two’s Cautious Approach to Pricing

In contrast, Take-Two Interactive, the publisher of Borderlands 4, has taken a more measured stance on pricing. In an interview with IGN, Take-Two CEO Strauss Zelnick highlighted the value that their games provide compared to other forms of entertainment. He stressed that their goal is to offer much more value than the price they charge, believing that consumers are willing to pay for top-quality entertainment.

Zelnick further elaborated in a GamesIndustry.biz interview on May 16, emphasizing Take-Two's commitment to game-by-game pricing and their mission to deliver exceptional value. This approach was recently exemplified with the announcement that Mafia: The Old Country will be priced at $50, while rumors suggest that GTA VI might exceed $100.

The Borderlands series has faced its share of controversies, including recent review bombings over EULA changes. The ongoing debate over Borderlands 4's price could further impact fan sentiment. Gearbox would do well to heed the feedback from its community as it navigates these pricing concerns.

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 and in-depth coverage as we approach the launch date.