We would almost have to write a book to exhaustively recount this new conflict, so we will try to retrace its broad outlines. The recent PvPvE spin-off Escape from Tarkov: Arena clearly did not find the expected success with players and Battlestate Games would therefore seek to replenish its coffers. Hence the announcement ofEscape from Tarkov: Unheard Edition. A package at 250 euros including a new highly requested PvE co-op mode, as well as other numerous advantages, such as increased storage space and many weapons deposited directly into the buyers' account. The studio also announced that a new exclusive item, the distress beacon, would allow owners of the Unheard Edition to call their friends list for backup during a raid. Which actually looks like pay to winyou don't need to be an expert in the game to understand it.
Advertisement
Escape from Tarkov
If the price and the advantages offered are already shameful, Battlestate Games kept one card up its sleeve: the PvE content of theUnheard Edition would not be accessible to owners of the edition Edge of Darknesssold at 150 euros from 2016 as a package complete including all upcoming DLCs. Hence the huge groan. The studio tried to justify this commercial decision by explaining that the PvE mode was not really a DLC because, uh, there you go, it's different, it's an additional mode, it's not the same. A wet cardboard defense that didn't last long.
Battlestate Games therefore tried to appease players with a Reddit post promising new benefits to owners of the edition Edge of Darkness, including six months of temporary access to PvE mode. The studio justified its position by explaining that PvE servers were different from PvP servers and that they would be much more limited in number. The post also mentions “high priority matchmaking” for six months. So there would be the payers quickly finding a match on the other hand, and the plebs left to marinate with low priority matchmaking on the other hand.
Two elements that only fanned the flames of anger in the community. Battlestate Games and players are now engaged in a large game of ping-pong between lame apology messages, legitimate complaints and soft concessions, such as a -50% reduction on theUnheard Edition for the properties of the Edge of Darkness (which still gives 125€ at the checkout, a very poor investment). At least the PvE mode will be accessible for free to owners ofEdge of Darknesswhich represents progress – like swapping the plague for gastroenteritis represents a tangible improvement without making you smile.
It is very likely that this series is not yet over. This image crisis weakens the position ofEscape from Tarkov at the worst time since direct competitors, like Arena Breakout: Infinite and Gray Zone Warfareare preparing to enter the market.
Advertisement