Randy Pitchford Apologizes for 'Real Fans' Tweet, Clarifies Intent

Randy Pitchford, the founder of Gearbox Software, recently found himself in the middle of a firestorm after responding to a fan’s concern about the rumored $80 price tag for *Borderlands 4*. The fan expressed worry that such a high price could alienate players and contribute to the trend of rising game prices. In response, Pitchford stated, “If you’re a real fan, you’ll find a way to make it happen.” That comment quickly went viral and was met with widespread criticism from the gaming community.

The backlash was swift and intense. Fans on X (formerly Twitter) voiced their disappointment, with some even threatening to pirate the game. Others urged Pitchford to apologize, not just for his sake but for the developers who have worked hard on the title. One fan wrote, “BL4 had so much hype and it’s being ruined in a day. Let people want to like and support the game and all the amazing people who made it.”

Pitchford Responds via Handsome Jack AI Parody

While Pitchford hasn’t issued a direct apology, he did reference a prior statement he made during a panel at PAX East regarding the game's pricing, saying, “If you want the truth, here it is.” Then, in what seems like an attempt to lighten the mood, he responded to a parody of his remarks generated by an AI version of Handsome Jack—a beloved yet ruthless character from *Borderlands 2*—prompted by user Duke_Newcombe and shared by streamer Moxsy.

“Ohhh boo-hoo, $80 for Borderlands 4? Let me break out the world’s tiniest violin—crafted from Eridium and oiled with the tears of whiny Vault Hunters.”

“You’re not buying a game. You’re investing in a premium, galaxy-shattering experience… You want guns that sprout legs, sing sea shanties, and explode into loot goblins without paying top dollar? Grow up.”

“But hey, if $80 is too steep, there’s always a solution: just don’t buy it. More legendary drops for the rest of us, and fewer mouth-breathing freeloaders clogging up my loot pools. Win-win.”

Pitchford reacted with humor to the AI-generated message, writing, “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!” He then followed up with a more sincere message:

“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!”

Moving Forward

Although Pitchford appears eager to put this controversy behind him, the conversation surrounding *Borderlands 4*’s price point is unlikely to fade. Once pre-orders go live, publisher 2K Games will need to officially announce the game’s cost. Whether it ends up at $80, $70, or somewhere in between, the topic will almost certainly reignite debate among fans and critics alike.