A recent statement from Johan Pilestedt, the director of Helldivers 2, shed light on the game’s monetization approach. Pilestedt emphasized the team’s efforts to avoid a pay-to-win model, acknowledging that while items in the game are functionally different, the only item categorized as pay-to-win is the revolver.
According to Pilestedt, the developers tried their best not to make the game pay to win. He said the only weapon paid for is the revolver, but it is not particularly powerful. Fortunately, the game allows players to get the super credits needed to purchase anything through the game.
This distinction comes as the game offers players the ability to earn super credits, a premium currency used to purchase a ‘Steeled Veterans Warbond’ battle pass, by playing the game.
Pilestedt expressed a desire to provide players with the choice to support the title without enforcing any obligation. In response to concerns about the game’s approach to monetization, he highlighted the belief that games need to earn their right to charge players. This is in line with the team’s stance on not compelling any individual to make purchases.
“‘You have to earn the right to monetize’ – I truly believe that. If people want to support this title they have an option, but we are never forcing anyone to do so.”
Johan Pilestedt
The game’s deputy game director, Sagar Beroshi, also addressed the issue, stating that the Warbonds system is not pay-to-win or driven by fear of missing out (FOMO). The accumulation of gear in the Warbonds will not lead to the retirement of earlier versions, allowing players the flexibility to complete them at their convenience.
For those who don’t know, Warbonds in HELLDIVERS 2 are a form of in-game currency used to unlock gear and items. They are obtained through the purchase of Super Credits from the in-game store or by discovering them during missions.
Once acquired, Warbonds grant access to unlockable content, which can be obtained using Medals earned through completing objectives, missions, and operations. The system is designed to provide players with a stream of unlockable gear without retiring earlier Warbonds as new ones are released. Warbonds are not a pay-to-win system, and the available items offer various tactical gameplay advantages.
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