Summary
Dragon’s Dogma 2delivers overall as an action RPG, but its reputation has also been dragged down by decisions made regarding aspects of the title outside its core gameplay loop. Like several other high-profile single-player releases in recent years, microtransactions have been incorporated into it for the sake of offering convenience to players. While these in-game purchases may not be the most aggressive, their presence has sparked notable backlash among the general praise forDragon’s Dogma 2. Given Capcom’s history of similar practices in previous releases, however, it’s almost certain that this trend isn’t going way anytime soon.
Thecontroversy surroundingDragon’s Dogma 2’s monetizationstems from the inclusion of important in-game items being made available for purchasing completely externally rather than earning them traditionally. This aspect of the game has become one of its most infamous features since launch, even overshadowing many of its redeeming qualities to many prospective players. Despite this backlash, Capcom has already been implementing similar models in even bigger titles without attracting as much negative attention.
The Impact of Microtransactions on Dragon’s Dogma 2’s Perception Follows a Capcom Trend
In-Game Purchases like Portcrystals Haven’t Resonated with RPG Fans
Players have the option to purchase the otherwise obtainableRift Crystals ofDragon’s Dogma 2, and this resource offers various enhancements when traded as currency. RC can be used to buy a Portcrystal, which serves as a warp point once placed in the world. This warping still requires the use of a consumable Keystone, however, and that item cannot be obtained outside of gameplay. Other purchasable items, like the Art of Metamorphosis character editor unlock or the reviving Wakestones, are relatively easy to access through in-game progression, but these have led some players to express concerns over what is perceived as unnecessary monetization.
Resident Evil Set the Precedent for Premium Singleplayer Items
Capcom experimenting with microtransactions is nothing new, asREhas laid the groundwork for years now.Resident Evil 4 Remake’s Exclusive Weapon Upgrade Ticketsallowed players to fast-track upgrade progression, whileRE2 Remakeallowed all of its in-game rewards to be bought directly. EvenVillagefeatures the option to purchase access to its Extra Content Shop andDMC5sells revival orbs, setting the tone as the most recent entries in flagship franchises. These practices are often defended by emphasizing how these rewards can still be earned with in-game effort. The concept of paying for convenience seems to be a tactic that Capcom is committed to.
Capcom’s Future Seems Potentially Marked by More Monetization Strategies
The Overall Success of Recent Releases is Unlikely to Dissuade Continued Microtransactions
Despite critcisms aimed at its in-game purchases and initial performance issues,Dragon’s Dogma 2has reportedly sold over 2.5 million copies. With the recentResident Evilreleases having continued to perform even better, it seems clear that the core gameplay experiences of these titles have still managed to avoid being labeled as pay-to-win. Negative fan reactions to these business practices have ranged from apathy to outrage, but this pushback has hardly compromised Capcom’s major releases.
While post-launch support can make or break multiplayer-centric titles under the company’s umbrella, likeStreet Fighter 6, the introduction of microtransactions in upcoming titles will require careful handling. With the likes ofMonster Hunter Wildson the horizon, fans of action RPG are likely to be more sensitive to the inclusion of in-game purchases, as shown by the backlashDragon’s Dogma 2received. Capcom may continue to capitalize on the profits it gains from microtransactions now that this practice has become the norm for the company, but it will need to implement this monetization thoughtfully to avoid any further negative reception on the same scale.
Dragon’s Dogma 2
WHERE TO PLAY
Set forth on your grand adventure, Arisen!Dragon’s Dogma is a single player, narrative driven action-RPG series that challenges the players to choose their own experience – from the appearance of their Arisen, their vocation, their party, how to approach different situations and more. Now, in this long-awaited sequel, the deep, explorable fantasy world of Dragon’s Dogma 2 awaits.On your journey, you’ll be joined by Pawns, mysterious otherworldly beings, in an adventure so unique you will feel as if accompanied by other players while on your own adventure.All of these elements are elevated further through physics technology, artificial intelligence (AI) and the latest in graphics, to create a truly immersive fantasy world in Dragon’s Dogma 2.
