Escape from Tarkov, a long-time leader in the extraction shooter genre, has recently sparked controversy with the announcement of a new game bundle called “The Unheard” edition. Priced at $250, this bundle includes a variety of new features such as a co-op PvE mode, vanity items, extra stash space, and more, all of which give buyers a significant advantage in the game. The community’s response to this announcement has been mixed, with many players raising concerns about the pricing and the pay-to-win elements of the bundle.

Steep Pricing for DLC

One of the main points of contention among players is the high price of the DLC. At $250, many feel that this is an exorbitant amount to ask for additional content, especially for a game that is still in its closed beta phase. Critics argue that Battlestate Games is asking too much from its players, given the current state of the game.

PvE Mode Locked Behind Paywall

Another issue that players have raised is the decision to lock the co-op PvE mode behind a paywall. This move has particularly upset players who had previously purchased the “Edge of Darkness” edition, as they were promised free access to all future DLC. By requiring these players to pay for the new mode or face being locked out after a 6-month trial period, Battlestate Games has drawn criticism from the community.

The developers’ stance on modding has also caused controversy, with a ban on modding and the introduction of PvE in a paid bundle raising questions about the company’s policies.

Pay-to-Win Content

Players who purchase the Unheard edition will receive several advantages, such as extra stash space, retained skill levels after a server wipe, and immunity from scavenger AI attacks after reaching a certain reputation level. These perks, along with a unique item that allows players to call friends into raids, have led many to label the bundle as “pay-to-win.” The inclusion of these features has sparked debate among the player base about the fairness of such advantages.

Competitors Rising Up

In the wake of this controversy, other games in the genre such as Helldivers 2, Arena: Breakout, and Gray Zone Warfare have seen a surge in popularity. The negative reaction to the Unheard edition has bolstered the success of these competing projects, as players seek alternatives to Escape from Tarkov. The shift in player interest highlights the impact of Battlestate Games’ decisions on the broader gaming community.