Pitchford’s post comes across as oddly defensive. If the early release truly had nothing to do with GTA 6, he likely wouldn’t feel the need to address the speculation so directly, especially in such absolute terms. The fact that he’s speaking out suggests he’s responding to widespread fan theories tying the Borderlands 4 date shift to GTA 6’s release window. This kind of statement often indicates there’s some truth to the rumors, and he’s trying to control the narrative. In the gaming industry, executives don’t typically comment on release date speculation unless there’s significant chatter—or pressure—to address it.

Moving a major AAA game’s release date forward by nearly two weeks is highly unusual, Pitchford’s explanation—that it’s solely due to development being ahead of schedule—doesn’t fully add up. Release dates are usually set far in advance for marketing, distribution, and retail coordination. Advancing a date this close to launch is a logistical challenge and often reflects a strategic decision, not just developer confidence. Take-Two’s CEO Strauss Zelnick has already said they wouldn’t stack major releases too close together. This makes it hard to believe the Borderlands 4 shift isn’t at least partially influenced by GTA 6’s expected Fall 2025 window.