Borderlands 4 Release Date Moved Up to Avoid GTA VI Clash – What We Know
Gearbox Interactive has surprised fans with an unexpected update: Borderlands 4’s release date has been moved forward by two weeks. Originally scheduled for September 23, 2025, the game will now launch on September 12, 2025. The announcement came directly from Gearbox CEO Randy Pitchford in a video that briefly went live too early before being deleted and reposted—a classic Pitchford moment that fans have come to expect.
While Gearbox claims the change is due to development progress ahead of schedule, industry insiders suspect another reason: avoiding a head-on collision with Grand Theft Auto VI. Rockstar’s highly anticipated GTA VI is expected to dominate Fall 2025, with rumors pointing to a late September release. The timing would have placed it dangerously close to Borderlands 4’s original launch window.
Interestingly, both games fall under the Take-Two Interactive umbrella, making this shift a strategic move to prevent internal competition. By giving Borderlands 4 a two-week head start, Gearbox ensures its title won’t be overshadowed by GTA VI’s inevitable media frenzy and player attention.
Fans won’t have to wait long for more details. Sony’s State of Play on April 30, 2025, will feature a 20-minute deep dive into Borderlands 4 gameplay. The showcase begins at 2 PM PT / 5 PM ET and promises new trailers, mechanics, and, of course, an absurd arsenal of weapons.
Why This Move Matters
Release date adjustments are common, but this one stands out. It’s rare for a publisher to reschedule a major title to avoid competing with its own blockbuster. The accidental video leak adds a layer of humor, reinforcing Pitchford’s reputation for chaotic yet endearing announcements.
Critics like Ash Parrish of The Verge have called the decision “a smart, if obvious, play” to sidestep GTA VI’s dominance. For players, it’s a win—more time to enjoy Borderlands 4 before another massive game consumes their free time.
What’s Next for Borderlands 4?
With the State of Play event approaching, fans will finally get a detailed look at what Gearbox has in store. Will Borderlands 4 refine its signature looter-shooter formula or double down on chaotic mayhem? Either way, the new September 12 release date can’t come soon enough for eager vault hunters.
Are you excited for Borderlands 4’s early launch? Share your thoughts in the comments!
