Borderlands Games Face Review Bombing After EULA Updates
The beloved Borderlands franchise is currently facing a wave of negative reviews, a phenomenon known as review bombing, following recent changes to the End User License Agreement (EULA) by its publisher, Take-Two Interactive. This backlash was first brought to light by Reddit user Noob4Head on May 18, highlighting how the Steam ratings for Borderlands, Borderlands 2, and Borderlands 3 have shifted to "Mixed" and "Mostly Negative" due to these alterations.
Take-Two's EULA Modifications
The updated EULA, which was last revised on February 28, has sparked controversy, especially after being labeled as "spyware" by various Reddit users and YouTubers. The crux of the discontent lies in the alleged granting of root-level access to users' machines under the guise of anti-cheat software. This software is said to potentially collect sensitive personal data such as passwords and contact information, though these claims remain unconfirmed by Take-Two.
The introduction of anti-cheat measures is particularly contentious within the Borderlands community, known for its vibrant modding scene. The fear is that these changes could negatively impact modding, which has been a significant part of the game's appeal. Moreover, it raises questions about privacy and gameplay limitations, especially in light of the anticipated release of Borderlands 4.
Community Reaction: Overreaction or Valid Concern?
While many fans view these EULA changes as overly invasive, there are those who believe the reaction might be exaggerated. Reddit user Librask, for example, argued that the updated EULA is not substantially different from its 2018 version, suggesting an overreaction among some players. The terms of service are broad and not all changes will directly impact Borderlands.
It's also worth noting that Take-Two, as the product owner, reserves the right to modify the EULA, and users are free to either accept these terms or discontinue using their services. Root-level access for anti-cheat purposes is not uncommon in the gaming industry, particularly in highly competitive multiplayer games like League of Legends or Valorant. However, given that Borderlands lacks a significant PvP competitive scene, the inclusion of such software has left fans puzzled, especially with Borderlands 4 on the horizon.
Looking Ahead
As the Borderlands series navigates this turbulent period, the community awaits Take-Two's response and potential adjustments to the EULA. The company is currently focused on the upcoming release of Borderlands 4, scheduled for September 12, 2025, on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, Nintendo Switch 2, and PC. For the latest updates on Borderlands 4 and more, be sure to check out our detailed coverage.
