Tom Misch
Rogue Snail, the developer behind Relic Hunters Legend, has announced a significant change in the game’s monetization strategy. After parting ways with Gearbox Publishing earlier this year, Rogue Snail has decided to remove all forms of monetization from the game’s full launch and turn it into a premium experience.
Originally planned to be free-to-play upon release, Relic Hunters Legend entered Steam Early Access in 2023 with the intention of implementing monetization features at a later stage. However, the developers have now opted to retail the game at $20 to create a fair and sustainable gameplay experience without predatory monetization.
The decision to shift to a premium model comes as Rogue Snail reflects on the limited resources available for self-publishing. According to CEO Mark Venturelli, the team wants to focus on making the game as enjoyable as possible while respecting the players’ time and money. Rather than implementing mechanisms that require excessive time, effort, and expenditure to progress in the game, the developers aim to provide a complete and engaging content experience.
As part of this change, all monetization aspects will be removed from Relic Hunters Legend. The game’s 1.0 launch will be a one-time purchase, with no in-game transactions or other purchases required. In recognition of the founders who supported the game, they will receive a new currency called Fashion Credits, which can be used to purchase cosmetics. Players will be able to acquire this currency by completing missions or through enemy drops, ensuring that everyone can enjoy the cosmetic options.
In addition to the removal of monetization, Relic Hunters Legend will undergo other significant updates. The online play requirement will be eliminated in update 0.11, allowing players to choose between solo play and multiplayer with friends. Save slots will also be introduced, enabling players to have multiple characters simultaneously.
The decision to shift away from the free-to-play model aligns with a trend observed among indie game developers. Many small-scale studios are finding it increasingly challenging to sustain their projects within the framework of monetization strategies utilized by larger triple-A games. Notable instances include Inkbound and Wayfinder, both of which have transitioned away from monetization under their self-publishing efforts.
The evolving landscape of the videogame industry has proven to be a difficult environment for developers and publishers alike. Layoffs, closures, and financial struggles have become pervasive issues. As such, the decision to transition to a premium model represents Rogue Snail’s determination to adapt and create a sustainable future for Relic Hunters Legend.
Relic Hunters Legend remains in Steam Early Access, with a price of $14.99 / £12.79. The price will increase to $20 / £15 upon the game’s full launch. For more co-op and single-player game recommendations, as well as updates on Relic Hunters Legend, please visit the relevant sections on our site.
Facts not mentioned in the article:
1. Rogue Snail is an independent game development studio based in Brazil.
2. Relic Hunters Legend is a cooperative, twin-stick shooter game.
3. The game features colorful and cartoony graphics.
4. The founders of Relic Hunters Legend organized a successful Kickstarter campaign to fund the game’s development.
Important questions and answers:
1. Why did Rogue Snail decide to remove monetization from Relic Hunters Legend?
Answer: Rogue Snail wanted to create a fair and sustainable gaming experience without predatory monetization and focus on making the game enjoyable for players.
2. How will players acquire cosmetic options in the game after the removal of monetization?
Answer: Players will receive a new currency called Fashion Credits, which can be earned by completing missions or through enemy drops, allowing them to purchase cosmetics.
Key challenges or controversies:
1. The shift from free-to-play to a premium model may alienate players who were expecting the game to be free upon release.
2. The success of Relic Hunters Legend’s premium model will depend on how well the game is received and whether players are willing to pay for a quality experience.
Advantages:
1. Removing monetization can create a more fair and enjoyable gameplay experience for players.
2. By providing a complete and engaging content experience, the game may have higher player retention.
Disadvantages:
1. The shift from free-to-play to a one-time purchase may reduce the number of potential players.
2. The success of the premium model depends on whether players are willing to pay for a game that was previously planned to be free.
Suggested related links:
– Rogue Snail Official Website
– Relic Hunters Legend on Steam
