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The latest Apex Legends season has arrived, but with it comes a controversial new Battle Pass update that has left fans divided. Despite the excitement surrounding the launch trailer, fans have voiced strong opinions about the apparent downgrade in skin quality and the introduction of “retro packs” that come with a hefty price tag. Let’s dive into the latest developments in Apex Legends and the reactions from its dedicated community.
Battle Pass Downgrade: Why Are Players Upset?
The new season of Apex Legends introduces Split 1 and Split 2 Battle Passes, each featuring unique cosmetics, including reactives, legendary skins, and epics. However, fans quickly noticed a perceived drop in quality, drawing comparisons to legendary and epic skins from earlier seasons like Season 7. Players lament that the quality has taken a step back, sparking discussions on social media about EA’s approach to monetization.
One of the most controversial additions is the return of past Battle Pass cosmetics through retro packs. These packs feature content from older Battle Pass seasons, such as Season 4’s Wraith and Watson skins, which were widely popular. However, each retro pack costs 500 Apex Coins and offers only one item from the original Battle Pass pool, leaving many players dissatisfied.
New Heirloom Recolor: Bloodhound and Ice Theme
Alongside the Battle Pass changes, Respawn has introduced an heirloom recolor for Bloodhound, moving away from the previous lava theme in favor of an ice-inspired design. The change aligns with the upcoming Exodus Christmas event and the return of the Winter Express mode. This icy heirloom, which includes a unique finisher animation, adds a fresh aesthetic twist that complements the holiday-themed content.
In addition to Bloodhound, Bangalore is receiving a new skin, joining Gibby’s iconic polar bear design. Fans can expect further holiday skins and events as the season progresses, giving players the chance to unlock limited-time items that bring a festive touch to the game.
Split 2 Preview: Watson and Pathfinder Steal the Show
With Split 2 on the horizon, players can look forward to more appealing rewards, including the highly anticipated Watson Nessie skin and Pathfinder’s Onyx look. Twitter leaks from Yoro Suuki have showcased upcoming content, highlighting the strong visual appeal of these Split 2 cosmetics. Additionally, characters like Mad Maggie, Loba, and Bloodhound will receive epic skins in the second split, along with new weapon skins, Apex coins, skydive trails, and trackers.
While the cosmetics in Split 2 have received a positive response, the overall reception to the Battle Pass system has been mixed. The introduction of retro packs as a paid feature raises concerns, especially as they bring back beloved skins that many players already acquired in previous seasons.
Retro Packs and Monetization: The Community’s Reaction
EA’s decision to reintroduce legacy Battle Pass items via retro packs has sparked debate among Apex Legends fans. The packs feature content from iconic past events, such as the Raiders Collection, Grand Soiree, and Legendary Hunt. Although this allows newer players to access legacy items, the cost of 500 Apex Coins per pack has been a sticking point. Critics argue that EA’s decision to implement these retro packs as a premium purchase rather than a grindable feature exemplifies a more aggressive monetization strategy.
Andrew Wilson, EA’s CEO, recently acknowledged that Apex Legends’ monetization structure from Season 22 did not perform as anticipated, hinting that the retro packs may be part of a revised marketing approach. While the community has expressed appreciation for making older items accessible again, many feel that the high cost and gambling-like structure detract from an otherwise inclusive move. Unlike other games, like Halo, which allows players to purchase and complete old battle passes at their own pace, Apex Legends limits access through these limited-time retro packs.
Universal Heirloom Variants and Price Hike
One of the most significant new features of the season is the release of a Universal Heirloom, offering multiple customization options. Among the variants are the Hype Beast Claw set and other designs that players can unlock using exotic shards. However, Respawn has increased the number of exotic shards needed to obtain these recolors from 10 to 20, making it even more challenging for players to collect their desired items.
As with the retro packs, this increase has received backlash from the community, who see it as another instance of excessive monetization. EA and Respawn’s approach this season highlights a growing trend in the gaming industry where in-game purchases increasingly lean toward premium pricing, prompting calls for a more consumer-friendly model.
FAQs about Apex Legends Battle Pass Downgrade
What are retro packs in Apex Legends?
Retro packs are a limited-time feature in Apex Legends that reintroduces previous Battle Pass items and event cosmetics for players to purchase. They are currently priced at 500 Apex Coins per item.
Which characters are getting new skins in this season’s Battle Pass?
Season highlights include skins for Bloodhound, Bangalore, and Watson, with new heirloom recolors and epic skins for popular characters.
How much do retro packs cost in Apex Legends?
Each retro pack costs 500 Apex Coins, which grants players one item from a past Battle Pass season or event collection.
What is the Universal Heirloom, and how does it work?
The Universal Heirloom is a new customizable heirloom with five variants, available for players to unlock using exotic shards. However, the shard requirement has recently increased, doubling from 10 to 20 exotic shards per variant.
How can players obtain older Battle Pass items in Apex Legends?
Currently, players can access older Battle Pass items through retro packs, which include items from previous Battle Passes and events. However, the content is not freely available and requires Apex Coins to unlock.
Source : bobz
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