The latest trailer for Warhammer 40K: Space Marine 2 was met with applause and appreciation for Saber Interactive. Finally, after a 13-year wait, fans would get a sequel to what is regarded as one of the best games in the Warhammer franchise.
Shortly before this trailer was revealed, Sony fans were given their first glimpse at a first-party hero shooter title, Concord. Like Overwatch, the game will allow players to engage in squad-based combat using unique abilities. But what do these two games have in common? Well, they are both listening to public opinion!
Warhammer 40K: Space Marine 2 and Concord Win Over Hearts by Understanding Prevailing Sentiments
Microtransactions in gaming have been a topic of discussion for many years now. Despite the clear disdain many feel for the feature, many companies tend to include it. There are arguments for both sides, but the feature can be included in a less contentious manner.
While this feature might still annoy some fans, Concord and Warhammer 40K: Space Marine 2 are doing it in the least egregious way possible. It was earlier revealed that Space Marine 2 will feature zero microtransactions and allow players to enjoy all of the content for free. The only paid media for the title will be purely cosmetic DLC.
Concord is implementing a similar approach, choosing to eliminate any pay-to-win mechanics. Speaking with VGC, Kim Kreines, Director of IP at Firewalk Studios, elaborated on the team’s philosophy regarding in-game purchases.
There are purely cosmetic pieces that you can choose to further customize the look of your character, that you can choose to purchase. Those do not affect gameplay. We believe so strongly that the full experience should be available to all of our players.
By eliminating pay-to-win, developers can create a level playing field and include recurring revenue streams. It’s still a sore spot for many gamers who would prefer not to have any such mechanics included. But it’s a good middle ground for now and allows players to ignore the feature if they so wish.
Concord Seeks to Break the Squad Shooter Formula
There are enough titles in the genre currently, so the reveal of a new one didn’t have gamers at the edge of their seats. But Firewalk Studios is looking to change things around by introducing weekly cinematics that will progress the plot and offer a better understanding of the characters. The idea is to give players a reason to engage more with the game.
The studio is certain that players will really like these characters, which should help retain players and bring more into the fold. The studio has also stated that the trailer is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to the content they have planned.
The game’s trailer left a lot to be desired by fans, but it seems Firewalk Studios is doing everything it can to get into their good graces. If Concord is able to take off and create a thriving community, the only aspect hampering its potential to dethrone Overwatch would be its PlayStation PC exclusivity.
What do you think of this manner of microtransaction? Let us know in the comments below.
