Foundation of Gearbox Software
Gearbox Software was founded in 1999 by Randy Pitchford, Brian Martel, Stephen Bahl, Landon Montgomery, and Rob Heironimus in Frisco, Texas. The company initially focused on developing expansions for popular games.
1999
2000
Release of Half-Life: Opposing Force
Gearbox Software's first major project was Half-Life: Opposing Force, an expansion pack for the critically acclaimed first-person shooter Half-Life. The game was well-received and established Gearbox as a reputable developer.
2001
Half-Life: Blue Shift
Gearbox Software developed another expansion for Half-Life, titled Blue Shift, which was released in 2001. The expansion featured a new storyline and improved graphics.
2002
Development of Counter-Strike: Condition Zero
Gearbox Software was tasked with developing Counter-Strike: Condition Zero, a single-player version of the popular multiplayer game Counter-Strike. The game faced several delays and changes in development teams.
2005
Brothers in Arms: Road to Hill 30
Gearbox Software released Brothers in Arms: Road to Hill 30, a World War II tactical shooter. The game was praised for its authenticity and storytelling and became the first in a successful series.
2009
Release of Borderlands
Gearbox Software released Borderlands, a unique blend of first-person shooter and role-playing game elements. The game was a commercial and critical success, leading to the creation of a popular franchise.
2012
Borderlands 2
Gearbox Software released Borderlands 2, which expanded on the original game's formula with more characters, weapons, and an engaging storyline. The game received widespread acclaim and solidified the franchise's popularity.
2013
Acquisition of Homeworld IP
Gearbox Software acquired the intellectual property rights to the Homeworld series from THQ. This allowed Gearbox to remaster the classic real-time strategy games and introduce them to a new generation of players.
2015
Homeworld Remastered Collection
Gearbox Software released the Homeworld Remastered Collection, which included updated versions of Homeworld and Homeworld 2. The collection was well-received for its faithful recreation and modern enhancements.
2016
Battleborn
Gearbox Software released Battleborn, a first-person shooter with MOBA elements. Despite positive reviews, the game struggled to find a large player base and was overshadowed by other titles in the genre.
2019
Borderlands 3
Gearbox Software released Borderlands 3, the latest installment in the Borderlands series. The game featured new characters, weapons, and an expanded storyline, receiving positive reviews and strong sales.
2021
Acquisition by Embracer Group
Gearbox Software was acquired by the Embracer Group, a Swedish video game holding company. The acquisition aimed to provide Gearbox with additional resources and support for future projects.
2022
Tiny Tina's Wonderlands
Gearbox Software released Tiny Tina's Wonderlands, a spin-off of the Borderlands series. The game featured a fantasy-themed setting and was inspired by the popular Borderlands 2 DLC, Tiny Tina's Assault on Dragon Keep.
2023
Expansion of Gearbox Publishing
Gearbox Software continued to expand its publishing arm, Gearbox Publishing, by signing deals with several independent game developers to publish their titles, further establishing its presence in the industry.
2024
New IP Announced
Gearbox Software announced the development of a new intellectual property, aiming to diversify its portfolio and bring fresh experiences to its audience. The new project generated significant anticipation among fans and industry watchers.
