Stormgate Microtransactions Spark Controversy

Stormgate's Steam early access debut has sparked a divided response among fans and backers. This article examines the concerns raised by Kickstarter backers and analyzes the game's current state following its Early Access launch.

Stormgate's Uneven Launch

Backer Discontent Over Monetization

The highly anticipated real-time strategy game, Stormgate – aiming to be a spiritual successor to Starcraft II – has experienced a rocky start on Steam. Despite a successful Kickstarter campaign raising over $2.3 million (against a $35 million initial funding goal), the game is facing criticism from backers who feel deceived. Those who pledged $60 for the "Ultimate" package expected complete early access content, a promise seemingly unmet.

Many viewed Frost Giant Studios' project as passion-driven, contributing to its success. While advertised as free-to-play with microtransactions, the aggressive monetization has left many backers disappointed.

Individual campaign chapters (three missions) cost $10, and co-op characters cost the same – double the price of Starcraft II's. Backers who invested $60 or more anticipated full early access gameplay, only to find themselves lacking access to content they believed was included. The addition of a new character, Warz, on launch day, excluded from Kickstarter rewards, further fueled this frustration.

"You can take the developer out of Blizzard, but you can’t take Blizzard out of the developer," commented Steam user Aztraeuz. "Many supported this game to see it succeed. Many of us have invested hundreds of dollars. Why are there pre-launch microtransactions we don't own?"

In response to the negative feedback, Frost Giant Studios issued a statement on Steam, acknowledging the concerns and thanking players for their support.

While attempting to clarify Kickstarter bundle content, the studio admitted many anticipated the "Ultimate" bundles to include all early access gameplay. As a goodwill gesture, they offered the next paid Hero for free to all Kickstarter and Indiegogo backers who pledged at the "Ultimate Founder’s Pack tier and above."

However, this excludes Warz, as many had already purchased him, making retroactive free access impossible.

Despite this concession, dissatisfaction persists regarding the game's aggressive monetization and underlying gameplay issues.

Frost Giant Addresses Post-Launch Feedback

Stormgate carries significant expectations. Developed by Starcraft II veterans, it aimed to revive the genre's golden age. However, player experiences have been mixed. While the core RTS gameplay shows potential, criticism focuses on aggressive monetization, unclear visuals, missing campaign features, weak unit interactions, and unchallenging AI.

These issues have resulted in a "Mixed" Steam rating, with some labeling it "Starcraft II at home." Despite flaws, reviews highlight the game's potential for improvement in areas like narrative and visuals.

For a comprehensive analysis of Stormgate's Early Access, read our full review.