Gearbox announces that early access to Alani is now available in Battleborn, which is the first of five such new characters planned for the shooter/MOBA. They illustrate that news with a new Alani skills overview trailer and a let's play video. They also take the opportunity to unveil another new character, Pendles, a snake with feet, because he needs somewhere to put his cool kicks. Here's word on him:

INTRODUCING PENDLES!
Hailing from the water world of Akopos, and pals with Alani, Pendles is a cold-blooded killer. No, literally. This anthropomorphized reptile will ssssneak up on you, poison you, perforate you with dual kamas then – poof – disappear without leaving a trace. Oh, yeah, and he wears a dope pair of sneakers. Get it? “Ssssneaky”?!? Wears sneakers?!? (Fine…fine.) This Rogue’s rogue may be a cold-blooded assassin-for-hire, but Ghalt felt was safer to have him on the team, than not.

Pendles will be coming in the next couple months as the 27th Battleborn and will be free for everyone with 47,500 credits earned in-game. He can also be unlocked instantly using a (1) hero key, which are included in the season pass, saving you the time it takes to earn the credits to otherwise unlock him. We’ll have more info on Pendles, including his abilities and release date as, we get closer to his release.