Randy Pitchford Clarifies 'Real Fans' Tweet: 'No Intent to Take Anyone for Granted'

Randy Pitchford, the CEO of Gearbox Software, has responded to the backlash following his controversial tweet about the pricing of Borderlands 4. The controversy arose when Pitchford suggested that "real fans" would find a way to afford the game, which could cost $80. His statement triggered a wave of criticism on social media, with many fans expressing their disappointment and some even threatening to pirate the game.

The original exchange on X / Twitter saw a fan voicing concerns about the potential price hike, to which Pitchford responded:

"A) Not my call. B) If you’re a real fan, you’ll find a way to make it happen. My local game store had Starflight for Sega Genesis for $80 in 1991 when I was just out of high school working minimum wage at an ice cream parlor in Pismo Beach and I found a way to make it happen."

The response from the community was overwhelmingly negative. Users on X / Twitter urged Pitchford to apologize, highlighting the potential negative impact on the game's developers and the broader community's enthusiasm for Borderlands 4.

In an attempt to address the controversy, Pitchford referenced a statement he made at PAX East regarding the game's price, stating, "If you want the truth, here it is." However, it was a subsequent tweet, prompted by a Handsome Jack AI simulation of his original comment, that led to a more direct acknowledgment of the backlash.

The AI, voiced by the iconic antagonist from Borderlands 2, humorously mocked fans complaining about the $80 price tag, emphasizing the value of the game's experience. In response to this AI-generated dialogue shared by streamer Moxsy and user Duke_Newcombe, Pitchford tweeted:

"Boy howdy, JackGPT, is that how I sound? My bad, but cheers to Duke_Newcombe and @MoxsyOG for the funniest thing I’m going to read today!"

Pitchford then offered a more serious apology, acknowledging that his initial comments were not well-received:

"In seriousness though, nobody likes being taken for granted and it was not my intent. I’m humbled by the love and support everyone has shown the team as we push hard to get this amazing game in your hands. They’re crushing it, and I can’t wait for everyone to play what’s going to be the best Borderlands ever! Regardless of where the price lands, it’s going to be worth it and then some. Back to work for me!"

Despite Pitchford's efforts to move past the issue, the debate over Borderlands 4's pricing is likely to resurface when pre-orders begin. The final price, whether $80, $70, or another figure, will be a significant point of discussion, especially given the heightened attention this controversy has garnered.

Randy Pitchford: "Back to work for me!" Photo by Monica Schipper/WireImage.