Apex Legends has introduced a variety of different changes in its latest Season 23 update. But as always, Electronic Arts (EA) and Respawn have prioritized profit over player satisfaction. The new season comes with a new Universal Heirloom called the Raptors Claw Karambit.
To get their hands on the new Karambit players need to collect a set of 36 exclusive cosmetics. With prices higher than ever and little response to past complaints, fans are beginning to feel the developers have learned nothing.
Apex Legends Can’t Seem to Do Anything Right
This isn’t the first time Apex Legends has faced backlash over its pricing. The Final Fantasy VII crossover event earlier this year saw similar criticism when players had to spend up to $360 to unlock all 36 cosmetics in order to obtain the limited-time One-Winged Angel Deathbox and Buster Sword Heirloom.
Unlike previous events which required players to collect only 24 items, these require 36. And the outcry, while ever-present, is always loud. It feels like a last-ditch effort by Respawn and EA.
One of the main arguments for these high-priced events is the presence of “whales,” or players who are willing to spend large amounts on in-game items. Some fans have pointed out that the pricing structure caters to these big spenders, who are able to financially support the game in ways that average players cannot.
What is this request for a $280 dirt it’s just small and not worth $100?
— Darkfiregalaxy (@NoLavanowater) November 5, 2024
Unfortunately, this leaves the typical player feeling understandably outraged. While whales may fund the game, many fans argue that the rest of the player base deserves fairer pricing and more affordable options. If not then what’s the point of catering to the 1% if the rest all leave the game?
The game is really on its death bed..
Servers are dying.
Cheaters are owning the game.
The game feels like a giant eSports.I’m sad to see Apex reach this state.
— Mostafa.Khalel (@mostafakay97) November 5, 2024
Players have suggested that the company could change its approach by offering free event store items or reducing the number of cosmetics required to unlock an heirloom. This would be similar to other collection events from before.
The Game Has Bigger Issues Than Cosmetic Pricing
Alongside concerns over pricing, the player community has also raised issues with the game’s current state. Many point out that while EA has invested heavily in releasing new cosmetics, they haven’t addressed ongoing technical issues and gameplay concerns.
Shame it’s like £200
— Callum🔴⚪️ ₉⁹₉ (@Callum03Lawson) November 5, 2024
Server stability, matchmaking, and cheating have been persistent complaints within the Apex Legends community. Some fans believe the company’s focus on monetizing cosmetics detracts from addressing these foundational issues, causing dissatisfaction and even prompting some long-time players to quit the game altogether.
Are they only focusing on universal heirlooms now? This looks nice, but I wonder when the next legend heirloom will be 🤔
— XenoAliieN (@XenoAliieN) November 5, 2024
Despite the backlash, EA has shown no signs of reversing its pricing strategy. Apex Legends remains a free-to-play title, and cosmetics are optional purchases, a model common in free-to-play games.
the frequency and cost of new items far exceed what’s typical, leaving players feeling as though they must either pay up or miss out on significant content. This “fear of missing out” (FOMO) effect has made some players feel pressured
With competitors like Fortnite attracting players with new maps and appealing collaborations, Apex Legends’ rising prices and lack of meaningful gameplay updates have some players considering alternative games.
What do you think of the current state of Apex Legends? Let us know in the comments!
