Baldur's Gate 3 publisher criticises Randy Pitchford's $80 Borderlands 4 remark
Michael Douse, publishing director of Larian Studios, has criticised Gearbox Software boss Randy Pitchford over his recent remarks on the pricing of the upcoming Borderlands 4, calling them “gross” amid ongoing cost-of-living concerns.
Pitchford sparked backlash after suggesting that “real fans” would “find a way” to purchase Borderlands 4 even if it launched at an $80 price point — a significant increase compared to typical game costs.
He cited paying $80 for a Sega Genesis game 30 years ago as justification, a claim many see as out of touch with current economic realities.
Douse, whose studio developed Baldur’s Gate 3, called Pitchford's comment 'gross.'
Gross. https://t.co/hAvBxODrXf
on social media: “Inflation exists (we give inflation bumps for example to employees) and price increases can make sense, but saying ‘real fans will find a way’ is gross because it assumes your game is more important during a cost of living crisis than, for example, making it day to day.”
He added: “Real fans are people who love & understand what you do, keep track, and engage with your stuff regardless of how much they spend.”
Inflation exists (we give inflation bumps for example to employees) and price increases can make sense, but saying "real fans will find a way" is gross because it assumes your game is more important during a cost of living crisis than, for example, making it day to day. https://t.co/GtIw0MJ601
When asked whether Baldur’s Gate 3 would ever have an $80 price tag, Douse said even if it did, “we would probably not suggest people do whatever they can to buy it, lest they not be real fans.”
Neither publisher 2K Games nor parent company Take-Two Interactive have confirmed the final price of Borderlands 4, due for release this September.
However, Pitchford’s comments have already stirred discontent among fans, with some resorting to review-bombing the Borderlands series on Steam amid concerns over new user agreements.
The $80 price point, if confirmed, would place Borderlands 4 among the most expensive mainstream video games, prompting broader discussions about affordability and value in the gaming industry during challenging economic times.