Not only are gamers outraged over the aggressive microtransactions and loot crates, but it seems that the developers aren't doing much to alleviate concerns. For example, after the recent finding that it took dozens of hours to unlock a hero, the game makers lowered the unlock requirements but also lowered the amount of credits earned.
Today, Star Wars: Battlefront 2's Executive Producer John Wasilczyk, Associate Design Director Dennis Brannvall, and Producer Paul Keslin hosted a Reddit AMA where they answered a lot of questions about the game. The three discussed future plans as well as issues surrounding the microtransactions. Here's a collection of some of the more memorable comments.
When asked about the game's progression system, Executive Producer John Wasilczyk said the following.
We've seen the speculation about how long it takes players to earn things — but our averages based on the Play First trial are much faster than what's out there. But as more players come in, that could change. We're committed to making progression a fun experience for all of our players. Nothing should feel unattainable and if it does, we'll do what it takes to make sure it's both fun and achievable. As we update and expand Arcade mode, we'll be working towards making sure that players can continue to progress without daily limits.
It's unclear when the daily limits from Arcade mode will be removed but at least DICE promised to remove them eventually. Hopefully, it won't take too long because right now it's a little unfair. The mode is a great way to grind credits without having to worry about losing in multiplayer matches when pitted against players with better Star Cards.
The developers were also asked about the negative reaction due to the aggressive microtransactions. Wasilczyk commented on that as well by saying the following.
I think this concern has come through loud and clear. We're going to continue adjusting the crate systems, content, and progression mechanics to hit a point that gives players a great, balanced experience at all skill levels. We're working on expanding the number of ways that players can progress, putting more control in their hands and providing more options and choice in the way people play. There's not much in the game that we wouldn't revisit to improve the game for as many players as possible… We're constantly looking at the rate that players are unlocking Crates and Star Cards and will continue adjusting values to make sure that players are able to progress towards their goals without it feeling like a grind. We're also going to be adjusting end of match rewards as we revisit the system to reward people differently based on the way they play.
There are easier solution to make it right but there's obviously the issue of balancing turning the most profit with giving players a sense of satisfaction. Hopefully DICE will be able to achieve a better balance soon.
Aside from promising changes, there are cosmetic items coming to the game as well. They'll also be available through microtransactions so keep that in mind. Associate Design Director Dennis Brannvall said the following in regards to that.
Nothing is too late. As you've noticed, we weren't able to get the customization system into the game in time for launch. I'm actually having artists and designers walk up to me today showing me cosmetic stuff they really want to get out there. I think we have probably the best looking Clone Troopers ever made and I know players really want to customize them (I know I do). I can't really commit to a date just yet, but we're working on stuff and I believe it will change the game tremendously on all levels.
Hopefully in the future the microtransactions will be more cosmetic-based than the pay-to-win type they currently are.
While there were numerous other unresolved questions about when players can expect these changes or when we would hear about future updates, Producer Paul Keslin ended by saying that DICE is open to a dialogue with players. This is the first step in repairing their relationship. He added the following.
Jumping into this AMA is just one of the ways we want to start to repair the bridge to our players. Lots of people told us that we shouldn't do this this as it wasn't going to go like we hope it would. That said, we are committed to continuing this dialogue even if we need to face some harsh feedback. We welcome the discussions and criticisms, we're not just here for the praise (although it is nice to hear!). And we'll continue to be here, and on our forums, talking to our community as we strive to work with you to make a Star Wars game you enjoy.
Hopefully the developers will fix the issues soon as they seem to be well aware of the problems. Instead of having endless discussions and promises, DICE need to push out patches immediately. That will do more to repair their relationship and reputation than anything.
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