Escape from Tarkov developer Battlestate Games has found itself embroiled in a heated controversy after announcing that the highly-anticipated PvE mode for the popular online tactical shooter will be locked behind a new $300 “Unheard Edition,” leaving many players feeling misled and shortchanged.
The studio had previously promised that owners of the $150 Edge of Darkness edition would receive “free access to all subsequent DLCs.” However, with the reveal of the Unheard Edition, Battlestate Games has backtracked on this commitment, stating that the new co-op PvE mode does not qualify as DLC but rather a separate “game mode.”
This semantic distinction has done little to quell the outrage from the game’s dedicated community. Players who purchased the Edge of Darkness edition under the assumption that it would grant them access to all future content updates now find themselves faced with the prospect of either missing out on the highly-anticipated PvE experience or shelling out an additional $100 to upgrade to the Unheard Edition.
Adding fuel to the fire, the Unheard Edition also includes a range of controversial paid advantages, such as increased stash size, expanded PMC pockets, and additional slots for the in-game flea market, prompting accusations of “pay-to-win” mechanics from disgruntled fans.
In an attempt to address the backlash, Battlestate Games has offered Edge of Darkness owners a 70% discount on early access to the PvE mode, as well as a 50% discount on upgrading to the Unheard Edition. However, this concession has been met with skepticism, as many players feel that the discounts do not adequately compensate for the broken promise of “all subsequent DLCs.”
The situation has quickly escalated into a public relations nightmare for the developer, with fans taking to social media and forums to voice their frustration and disappointment. Some have even threatened to boycott the game entirely, citing a breach of trust and a blatant attempt to nickel-and-dime players.
As the controversy continues to unfold, all eyes are on Battlestate Games to see how the studio will respond and whether they will take further steps to placate the disgruntled player base. The debacle serves as a cautionary tale for game developers, highlighting the importance of transparency and adhering to promises made to their loyal communities.
