So that’s who that is in Borderlands 2

Craig Reynolds at The Paranoid Gamer explains who that guy is wandering around Sanctuary handing out sweet guns, asking for nothing in return.

Michael John Mamaril was big fan of the original Borderlands who was diagnosed with a terminal illness. He and his buddies enjoyed a special companionship, and played Gearbox Software’s game together every day until Michael passed away in 2011, aged 22 years old.

In honour of his memory, close friend Carlos contacted Gearbox to ask if a short eulogy could be read by smart-mouthed robot Claptrap. It was a touching speech, during which voice actor David Eddings promised that Michael would live on forever in the Borderlands. One year on, he does in Sanctuary, a name given to a sacred place that offers refuge, asylum and safety.

Be sure to check out the Claptrap euglogy here. Classy stuff, Gearbox.

(Thanks, lordkosc!)

  • Saltiness

    They seem to be pretty good with this kind of stuff. They had David Eddings do a marrage proposal once too iirc.

  • http://www.facebook.com/people/Jason-McMaster/607680289 Jason McMaster

    Well, this more than makes up for Duke Nukem. What a completely kind and beautiful gesture.

  • http://hirejimessian.com BadKermit

    Does anyone know who provided the character’s voice? I’m really hoping it was his buddy Carlos. Regardless, what a cool tribute.

  • Robert Kosc

    :O I was thanked!

  • SlainteMhath

    Gearbox is awesome. Between this, the proposal and wedding stuff, and several other stories I’ve read about fan interaction, they may be the most approachable and involved developer out there when it comes to fans. A+ Gearbox, Stuff like this makes me happy to spend full price on your software.

  • http://twitter.com/TheParanoidGR TheParanoidGamer

    Thanks for the link back guys! It’s really nice to see Gearbox do this for a fan and gamer we lost way too soon.

  • Inver

    Wow, that is pretty fucking great.