31 Facts About Gearbox

What is Gearbox Software?

Gearbox Software is a well-known name in the gaming industry. Founded in 1999, this American video game development company has created some of the most iconic games. Let's dive into some fascinating facts about Gearbox Software.

1. Gearbox Software was founded by Randy Pitchford, Brian Martel, Stephen Bahl, Landon Montgomery, and Rob Heironimus.

2. The company is headquartered in Frisco, Texas.

3. Gearbox is best known for the Borderlands series, which has sold millions of copies worldwide.

4. Before creating their own IPs, Gearbox worked on expansions for the popular Half-Life series.

Early Projects and Collaborations

Gearbox Software didn't start with original titles. They initially worked on expansions and ports for other developers.

5. Their first project was Half-Life: Opposing Force, an expansion pack for Valve's Half-Life.

6. They also developed Half-Life: Blue Shift, another expansion for the same game.

7. Gearbox ported Half-Life to the PlayStation 2, introducing new content exclusive to the console.

8. They collaborated with Bungie to develop the PC version of Halo: Combat Evolved.

The Birth of Borderlands

Borderlands is arguably Gearbox's most successful franchise. This series combines first-person shooter gameplay with role-playing elements.

9. The first Borderlands game was released in 2009.

10. Borderlands introduced the concept of "shoot and loot," which became a defining feature of the series.

11. The game features a unique art style known as cel-shading, giving it a comic book-like appearance.

12. Borderlands 2, released in 2012, is one of the best-selling games of all time.

Expanding the Universe

Gearbox didn't stop with just one successful game. They expanded the Borderlands universe in various ways.

13. Borderlands: The Pre-Sequel was released in 2014, set between the events of the first two games.

14. Tales from the Borderlands, an episodic adventure game developed by Telltale Games, expanded the story further.

15. Borderlands 3, released in 2019, continued the series' success with new characters and worlds.

16. The franchise has also inspired comic books, novels, and even a forthcoming movie.

Other Notable Titles

While Borderlands is their flagship series, Gearbox has worked on several other notable titles.

17. Brothers in Arms is a World War II-themed tactical shooter series developed by Gearbox.

18. The first game in the series, Brothers in Arms: Road to Hill 30, was released in 2005.

19. Gearbox also developed Duke Nukem Forever, a game with one of the longest development cycles in history.

20. Battleborn, a hero shooter released in 2016, was another original IP from Gearbox.

Acquisitions and Expansions

Gearbox has grown significantly over the years, acquiring other studios and expanding its reach.

21. In 2015, Gearbox acquired the Homeworld franchise from THQ.

22. They released Homeworld Remastered Collection, bringing the classic space strategy games to modern audiences.

23. Gearbox Publishing was established in 2016 to help other developers bring their games to market.

24. In 2021, Gearbox was acquired by Embracer Group, a Swedish video game holding company.

Community and Culture

Gearbox Software is known for its strong community engagement and unique company culture.

25. The company hosts an annual event called Gearbox Community Day, where fans can meet developers and get exclusive content.

26. Gearbox has a reputation for being a fun and creative place to work, often featuring quirky office decorations and events.

27. They actively engage with their fanbase through social media and forums.

28. Gearbox has a history of supporting charitable causes, including Extra Life and Child's Play.

Awards and Recognition

Gearbox Software's contributions to the gaming industry have not gone unnoticed.

29. Borderlands 2 won several awards, including Best Shooter and Best Multiplayer Game at the 2012 Spike Video Game Awards.

30. The company has been recognized for its innovative game design and storytelling.

31. Gearbox continues to be a major player in the gaming industry, with a dedicated fanbase and a bright future ahead.

Final Gearbox Facts

Gearboxes are more than just mechanical components. They play a crucial role in various machines, from cars to industrial equipment. Understanding their function helps us appreciate the engineering behind everyday devices. Gearboxes convert speed and torque, making engines more efficient. They come in different types, like manual, automatic, and continuously variable transmissions (CVTs). Each type has unique benefits, catering to different needs and preferences.

Regular maintenance is key to extending a gearbox's lifespan. Checking the oil, listening for unusual noises, and ensuring proper alignment can prevent costly repairs. Innovations in gearbox technology continue to improve performance and efficiency, making our machines more reliable and powerful.

Next time you drive your car or use a machine, remember the gearbox working tirelessly behind the scenes. It's a small but mighty component that keeps our world moving smoothly.