Electronic Arts and Respawn Entertainment have unveiled significant changes for Apex Legends, one of the most popular free-to-play battle royale games. The most notable change? The introduction of two Battle Passes per season, a move that has left many players furious.
The New Battle Pass Structure
Starting from Season 22, Apex Legends will feature two Battle Passes per season, one for each split. These passes will offer new rewards and will require real money to purchase. Additionally, a new premium tier, Premium+, will be introduced.
Electronic Arts explained the rationale behind this change: “We have reviewed the numbers and everything needs to be more accessible and realistic for our global community. These updated changes make the Battle Pass more accessible and valuable in terms of both time and money. The reward should always be worth the time you choose to spend in the Wildlands, and now it is.”
Cost Breakdown and Player Reactions
At the start of each season, players will have access to a 60-level Battle Pass costing $9.99 USD. Mid-season, a second 60-level Battle Pass will be introduced, also priced at $9.99 USD. This totals 120 levels for $20 USD per season. In comparison, Season 21 featured a single 110-level Battle Pass for $10 USD (950 Apex Coins), effectively doubling the overall cost for the season.
The new Premium+ tier of the Battle Pass will be priced at $19.99 USD, adding another layer of monetization to the game.
Community Backlash
Unsurprisingly, the announcement has been met with widespread discontent among the Apex Legends community. Players have taken to social media and the Apex Legends subreddit to voice their displeasure with the new Battle Pass format.
Despite the backlash, Electronic Arts continues to defend the changes with the following statement: “With the Battle Pass now shortened, more members of our community will be able to jump in and obtain the reactive skin at the end.”
“You’ll now get double the Battle Pass rewards throughout the season by completing both Battle Passes, and you can continue your progress beyond level 60 up to level 100 to upgrade Battle Pass badges. This change allows us to better align season progression with Ranked play and enhance the value of your time.”
Key Changes in the Battle Pass Structure
- Two Battle Passes Per Season: One at the beginning and one mid-season, each with 60 levels.
- Cost: Each Battle Pass costs $9.99 USD, totaling $20 USD per season for both passes.
- Premium+ Tier: An additional tier priced at $19.99 USD for those seeking enhanced rewards.
- Increased Rewards: Players can earn double the rewards by completing both Battle Passes.
- Extended Progression: Continue progress beyond level 60 up to level 100 to upgrade Battle Pass badges.
Conclusion
As Apex Legends gears up for these substantial changes in Season 22, the community’s reaction underscores the delicate balance game developers must maintain between monetization and player satisfaction.
Whether these changes will ultimately benefit the game or drive players away remains to be seen. One thing is certain: the landscape of Apex Legends is about to undergo a significant transformation.
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