Cloud Imperium Games (CIG) has faced backlash from the Star Citizen community over the introduction of “pay to win” flight blades, which cannot be earned through in-game gameplay. The blades were introduced as premium items but can now be obtained through the in-game currency aUEC in an upcoming patch.
In a statement, CIG acknowledged that they missed a step and expressed their commitment to making the game more accessible to players. The company promised that future gameplay kit introductions will be available for purchase on day one, allowing players to choose how much they want to support the project.
However, not all players were satisfied with CIG’s response, with many criticizing the introduction of pay-to-win items as a bandaid solution to deeper problems. Some argued that the company was prioritizing profits over game balance and player experience.
The controversy has highlighted the ongoing debate about the nature of game development and the role of monetization in online games. Despite raising over $800 million, CIG’s Star Citizen remains in its 12-year-old early access phase without a clear version 1.0 release date.
Source: https://www.eurogamer.net/star-citizen-players-slam-cigs-non-apology-after-space-sim-introduces-pay-to-win-items-that-cannot-be-earned-in-game