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

As Borderlands 4 gears up for its release, the gaming community is buzzing with anticipation and concern over the game's pricing. Gearbox Software has been tight-lipped about the price, leaving fans to speculate, especially with the possibility of it costing over $80. On May 14, Gearbox CEO Randy Pitchford sparked controversy with a tweet responding to a fan's concern about the high cost. He stated that the pricing decision is beyond his control and suggested that true fans would find a way to purchase the game regardless of the price.

This statement drew significant backlash from the community, with many fans expressing their frustration in the comments. Some argued that additional costs like season passes and skins could push the total expense even higher, making the $80 baseline price seem even less palatable. During a PAX East panel on May 10, Pitchford acknowledged the rising costs of game development, mentioning that Borderlands 4's budget is more than double that of Borderlands 3. He admitted uncertainty about the final price but did not dismiss the possibility of it being $80.

The reaction from fans was clear: Pitchford's comments about "real fans" finding a way to buy the game despite the price felt dismissive and out of touch. This has led many to reconsider their enthusiasm for the upcoming title.

In contrast, Take-Two Interactive, the publisher of Borderlands 4, offered a more measured response on the pricing issue. In an interview with IGN, Take-Two CEO Strauss Zelnick emphasized the company's commitment to providing exceptional value. He argued that video games offer unparalleled entertainment value compared to other forms of media like movies or live events. Zelnick highlighted the company's goal to deliver more value than what they charge, suggesting that consumers are willing to pay for top-tier entertainment.

Zelnick further elaborated on Take-Two's pricing strategy in an interview with GamesIndustry.biz, stating that the company employs variable pricing tailored to each game. This approach, he explained, is part of their mission to deliver the best entertainment value to consumers worldwide.

Recent developments in the Borderlands series, including review bombing over EULA changes, add to the tension surrounding Borderlands 4's pricing. As the release date of September 12, 2025, on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, Nintendo Switch 2, and PC approaches, Gearbox must heed the feedback from its community to ensure a successful launch.

Stay tuned for more updates on Borderlands 4 and keep an eye on our articles for the latest news and insights.