Apex Legends fans were excited when rumors began circulating about the return of Duos mode, only to be met with disappointment as it was revealed that Duos would only return for a brief two-week window starting on September 3rd, leaving again on September 17th. This decision raises questions about Apex Legends’ shifting playlist strategy, the removal of popular modes, and whether the game needs a more permanent solution for beloved modes like Duos.
The Temporary Return of Duos Mode
Duos mode has been a fan-favorite in Apex Legends, offering a more intimate and tactical gameplay experience. However, despite its popularity, Duos has not been a permanent fixture in the game’s playlist. Instead, it’s being reintroduced as a Limited-Time Mode (LTM), frustrating players who had hoped for its permanent return.
While players are happy to see Duos back, even for a limited time, it’s puzzling why a mode that offers such varied gameplay experiences remains absent from the permanent roster. The temporary nature of Duos means that after September 17th, it will once again be removed, leaving many to wonder when or if it will return in the future.
Why Is Apex Legends Removing Permanent Playlists?
The inconsistency in Apex Legends’ playlist offerings has been a point of contention. In the past, modes like Solos and Quads were temporarily introduced, only to be removed and replaced with other LTMs. The constant rotation of game modes, while introducing fresh content, often leaves players feeling like their favorite modes are fleeting.
One reason behind this could be skill-based matchmaking (SBMM) and the concern over longer queue times if too many modes are available at once. Apex Legends developers seem hesitant to add permanent modes for fear of splitting the player base, but with the game’s large population across Steam, console, Origin, and Epic Games, queue times shouldn’t be a significant issue.
For example, popular games like Fortnite offer numerous modes at any given time, allowing players to choose the one they enjoy most. Apex Legends players often express frustration with the constant removal of modes and LTMs they’ve come to love, further intensifying the need for more permanent options.
The Playlist Problem and a Potential Solution
A major issue in Apex Legends is the limited playlist selection. Currently, players are often restricted to just Trios, Ranked, and a rotating LTM like Duos or Straight Shot Revival. This narrow range of options can lead to player burnout, especially when modes that add variety are frequently taken away.
One possible solution could be the introduction of a rotating permanent playlist. A concept similar to Apex’s Mixtape Mode could feature modes like Duos, Revival, Quads, and Three Strikes, each available for a set amount of time before rotating to the next. This way, players would always have access to a range of game modes, ensuring more engagement and variety without the frustration of modes disappearing entirely.
