Gearbox, the creators of the popular video game series Borderlands, are gearing up for a big screen adaptation of their beloved franchise. The upcoming Borderlands movie was inspired by the success of the spin-off narrative game called Tales from the Borderlands, which was developed by Telltale Games and released in 2014. This unique game took a different approach compared to the traditional Borderlands titles, focusing more on storytelling and character development rather than looter shooter gameplay.
According to Gearbox CEO Randy Pitchford, Tales from the Borderlands was an “experiment” that turned out to be a massive success. The game received high praise from fans, critics, and even non-fans of the franchise. This positive reception gave the team at Gearbox the confidence to explore the possibility of a movie adaptation. Pitchford emphasized that the storytelling aspect of Tales from the Borderlands was key in validating the rich universe of the franchise.
Unlike the mainline Borderlands games, Tales from the Borderlands did away with the shooter mechanics and loot-based gameplay, opting instead for a more narrative-driven experience. Pitchford highlighted that this shift towards storytelling was a rewarding endeavor for the studio. He also mentioned that while the game resonated with those who discovered it, a movie adaptation could potentially attract a wider audience beyond just hardcore gamers.
Pitchford explained that the Borderlands movie serves as a way to introduce the franchise to a broader demographic, including those who may not typically engage with video games. By bringing the colorful characters and engaging storylines of Borderlands to the big screen, Gearbox hopes to reach new fans and expand the appeal of the series. The CEO compared this approach to how his own mother, who doesn’t play video games, can still appreciate and support his work through mediums like movies.
The Borderlands movie is set to hit theaters on August 9, and fans are eagerly anticipating its release. While early trailers have received mixed reviews, there is hope that the film will capture the essence of the beloved franchise and deliver an entertaining experience for both longtime fans and newcomers alike. Gearbox’s decision to explore new storytelling avenues beyond the realm of video games showcases their commitment to evolving the Borderlands universe and connecting with audiences in innovative ways.