In Borderlands 2 for the PC, PS3, and Xbox 360, golden keys will let you open the Golden Chest in Sanctuary which gives you a rare (purple) weapon.
So how do you get these valuable golden keys that will help you get some of the best weapons in the game?
If you pre-ordered the game, you should have received a golden key. Don’t fret if you didn’t however, because there will be other ways to get golden keys through Gearbox promotions.
Currently, you can sign up for the Shift program in the Extras menu in the game to receive one golden key.
Keep an eye on the news feed in the main menus for future promotions that will provide access to more golden keys in the future.
Note: Instead of spending your golden key right away, check out my other article if you want to know how to get unlimited golden keys.