Game director Nikita Buyanov of Escape From Tarkov has issued an apology on Reddit for the community outrage over the recent changes to the Unheard Edition, which included a $250 price tag and exclusive DLC. Buyanov expressed regret for causing negative feelings among fans and the gaming community and acknowledged that he did not anticipate such a strong reaction. He stated that he has learned from this experience and will be more mindful of future decisions.
In response to the backlash, Buyanov outlined changes that will be made to the Unheard Edition, including a revision of the announcement that EoD owners would have access to the new PvE mode for six months. Instead, access will be granted in waves, starting as soon as server capacity allows. Additionally, mod support will be added for the PvE mode upon launch, allowing for greater customization options. This decision may have been influenced by the popularity of the SinglePlayer Tarkov mod, which gained traction during the controversy.
Following complaints from fans, the priority matchmaking feature for Edge of Darkness owners will not be implemented, as it was deemed to negatively impact the game experience for non-EoD players. Despite the backlash, the Unheard Edition will remain on sale, but the perks it offers will be rebalanced to address concerns raised by the community. Buyanov emphasized that the option to support the game with a higher-priced edition will still be available, but adjustments will be made to ensure fairness for all players.
Buyanov concluded his statement by affirming that the development team will continue to work on the game and is committed to achieving a full release. While no specific timeframe was provided, there is a possibility that the full release could occur this year. The team’s focus remains on addressing player feedback and improving the overall gaming experience, despite the recent controversy surrounding the Unheard Edition. Fans can expect further updates and improvements to be implemented as the game evolves towards completion.
The response from Buyanov and the team at Battlestate Games reflects a willingness to listen to the community and make changes based on player feedback. The decision to reconsider certain aspects of the Unheard Edition and to prioritize fairness for all players demonstrates a commitment to maintaining a positive relationship with the player base. With ongoing development efforts and a focus on player satisfaction, the future of Escape From Tarkov looks promising as the team continues to strive towards a successful full release.
Overall, the recent developments in response to the community backlash over the Unheard Edition highlight the importance of open communication between developers and players in the gaming industry. By addressing concerns, making adjustments, and reaffirming their commitment to the game’s development, the team at Battlestate Games is working to ensure that Escape From Tarkov remains a popular and engaging experience for all players. As the game progresses towards a full release, fans can look forward to further updates and improvements that will contribute to a more enjoyable gameplay experience.
