Backlash Brews Over Stormgate Microtransactions

Stormgate’s early access launch on Steam has been met with a mixed reception from fans and backers alike. Read on to learn more about the issues raised by its Kickstarter backers and the game’s state after its Early Access launch.

Stormgate Launches with Mixed ReviewsBackers Upset Over Stormgate’s Microtransactions

Stormgate, the eagerly anticipated real-time strategy game vying to be the spiritual successor to Starcraft II, has faced a turbulent launch on Steam. The game, which garnered over $2.3 million on Kickstarter despite a substantial $35 million initial funding, is encountering criticism from its backers who feel deceived. Those who pledged $60 for the "Ultimate" bundle anticipated receiving the complete early access content, a pledge that seems to have fallen flat.

Many perceived the game as a passion-driven project by Frost Giant Studios and desired to contribute to its prosperity. Though the game is marketed as free-to-play with microtransactions, the assertive monetization model has dampened the experience for numerous backers.

A single campaign chapter—or three missions—costs $10. A single co-op character costs the same, double the cost of Starcraft II's. Many pledged $60 or more on Kickstarter to gain access to three chapters and three characters. With a significant sum already invested, backers believed they would at least fully experience the game during its early access. Regrettably, many backers felt betrayed, as a new character, Warz, was introduced to the game on day one but was not included in the Kickstarter rewards.

"You can remove the developer from Blizzard, but you can’t remove Blizzard from the developer," a Steam reviewer under the username Aztraeuz remarked. "Many of us supported this game because we desired to witness its success. A great number of us have already invested hundreds of dollars in this game. Why are there pre-day 1 microtransactions that we do not own?"

In response to player backlash, Frost Giant Studios took to Steam to address concerns and thank players for their support.

Despite trying to "make the content in our Kickstarter bundles clear during the campaign," the studio acknowledged that many expected the "Ultimate" bundles to carry all the gameplay content "available for our Early Access release." As a gesture of goodwill, they announced that all Kickstarter and Indiegogo backers who pledged at the "Ultimate Founder’s Pack tier and above" will receive the next paid Hero for free.

However, the studio clarified that this offer excludes the already released Hero, Warz, as many"have already purchased Warz", which makes them "unable to make him free retroactively."

Despite this concession, many continue to express frustration over the game’s aggressive monetization tactics and underlying gameplay problems.

Frost Giant Studios Addresses Player Feedback After Early Access Launch

Stormgate carries the weight of high expectation. Developed by veterans who worked on Starcraft II, the game aimed to recapture the magic of the genre’s golden age. However, players have encountered a varied bag. While the core RTS gameplay shows promise, the game has been criticized for its questionable monetization, lackluster visuals, lack of essential campaign features, unimpressive unit interactions, and AI failing to provide a meaningful challenge.

These issues have contributed to a "Mixed" rating on Steam, with many players calling it "Starcraft II at home." Despite these shortcomings, our review highlighted the game’s potential and the possibility for improvement in areas like story and visuals.

For a deeper dive into our thoughts on Stormgate’s Early Access, check out our full review below!