Borderlands 3, the highly anticipated first-person shooter game developed by Gearbox Software, was released on September 13, 2019. However, upon its initial release, the game was exclusively available on the Epic Games Store, leaving many PC gamers wondering when it would be available on Steam. In this article, we will delve into the current status of Borderlands 3 on Steam and explore the reasons behind its delayed release on the popular gaming platform.
The Exclusivity Deal:
One of the main reasons behind the delayed release of Borderlands 3 on Steam is the exclusivity deal between Gearbox Software and Epic Games. Prior to the game’s release, Gearbox announced that Borderlands 3 would be exclusive to the Epic Games Store for a period of six months. This means that the game would not be available on any other PC gaming platform, including Steam, during this exclusivity period. The decision to partner with Epic Games was likely driven by financial incentives and the opportunity to reach a wider audience through the Epic Games Store.
Exclusivity Controversy:
The exclusivity deal between Gearbox Software and Epic Games sparked controversy among PC gamers who were eagerly awaiting the release of Borderlands 3 on Steam. Many players expressed their disappointment and frustration with the decision, as they were loyal Steam users and preferred to have all their games in one library. Some even went as far as boycotting the game altogether. However, it is important to note that exclusivity deals are not uncommon in the gaming industry, and developers often make these decisions based on what they believe will benefit their game and company the most.
Post-Exclusivity Period:
The six-month exclusivity period for Borderlands 3 on the Epic Games Store ended on March 13, 2020. This means that the game is now eligible to be released on other PC gaming platforms, including Steam. However, as of the time of writing this article, Gearbox Software has not announced an official release date for Borderlands 3 on Steam. It is worth mentioning that the process of porting a game from one platform to another can take time and requires careful optimization to ensure a smooth gaming experience. Therefore, it is understandable that Gearbox Software may need additional time to prepare the game for its release on Steam.
Speculations and Future Prospects:
While there is no official announcement regarding the release date of Borderlands 3 on Steam, speculations and rumors have been circulating among the gaming community. Some believe that Gearbox Software may choose to release the game on Steam after a certain period of time has passed since the end of the exclusivity deal. Others speculate that the developers may take advantage of Steam’s seasonal sales events to maximize the game’s potential sales. However, until an official announcement is made by Gearbox Software, these speculations remain mere conjecture.
Conclusion:
The release of Borderlands 3 on Steam has been eagerly anticipated by PC gamers who prefer the convenience and features offered by the popular gaming platform. While the exclusivity deal with Epic Games delayed its availability on Steam, the end of the exclusivity period has opened up the possibility for Borderlands 3 to make its way onto the platform. As of now, there is no official release date for Borderlands 3 on Steam, but fans can remain hopeful that it will be available in the near future. In the meantime, players can still enjoy the game on the Epic Games Store or explore other titles in the Borderlands series.