BL3 Launch Platform Controversy

PC

So, I tried DM'ing this the Mr. Pitchford via his official Twitter; alas, he doesn't accept DMs - I get it. Then I tried sending it to Gearbox via their official website. Three browsers later and whitelisting; their "contact us" function is, well, not functioning. So... here is to hoping someone sees it:

Randy:  I recently listened to an editorial explaining that you recently tweeted expressed concern as to why people had issues about launching Borderlands 3 exclusively on the Epic Games Store (EGS).  I don't recall exactly, but you said something to the effect of: not understanding what the big deal was; pc is pc and why does the platform matter all that much?  I am writing to you in order to offer some perspective on this matter and perhaps you, or members of your team could find it valuable.  I am a former military intelligence officer for the US Army, a commodities trader, and have been a gamer for the better part of 25 years.  So I am referencing my knowledge and experience in information security, finance, and gaming generally to inform my stance on this issue.  The "big deal" with EGS exclusivity is limiting the choice of people who enjoy your product who are concerned about their security.  EGS has sold a substantial portion of their company to Tencent Holdings; a company which operates at the pleasure of a hostile and oppressive foreign government.  EGS has un-patriotically exposed themselves to the interests of a company which could very well use them as a vehicle for their own agendas (collection, espionage, etc.) under the auspices of the Chinese government.  People who are aware of these nefarious relationships (such as former intelligence services personnel, like me) will, as a matter of fact, never install or use EGS.  I understand the financial incentives to offer your product in EGS, as a trader who is always looking to exploit the margins, I get it.  However, some things aren't about the money, and the dissenting voices in this conversation do have legitimate concerns.  I think it would be a powerful act of good faith to address this significant security concern that many millions of your fans have.  Thank you for your time and consideration.

Posted Mar 29, 2019, 6:49 PM UTC

14
DevilMaySnow•

People need to realize that all the games are on STEAM. The ones from PAX from yesterday. Also the enhanced BL versions. And no announcement for EPIC for them, which they'd do I am pretty sure if BL3 was on Epic. The outrage on Twitter was kinda big after he said what you've quoted. I am pretty sure he got the memo. What made me content was his line from yesterday about their "Steam buddies" etc. I am pretty sure the game's gonna be on Steam.

​

I wouldn't be happy if it was on EGS, but there is literally no evidence leading to it being there. Especially with what I mentioned. And it's Borderlands 3, I dare say the game is one of the most hyped games ever, it's no Metro Exodus, they know they can't really fuck this one up.

4
lostnumber08OP•

Yeah, that is a really good point; hopefully he got the message and we can go from there.

3
mordacaiyaymofo•

Epic has no Mac or linux support and nothing like steamworks. You are worried for nothing.

2
Shadowymage•

you went off on Pitchford but i dont blame you agree with everything you say.

-5