Stormgate Microtransactions Criticized by Backers and Fans

Stormgate's Steam early access launch has sparked a divided response among fans and backers. This article explores the concerns raised by Kickstarter backers and the game's current state.

Stormgate's Rocky Early Access Debut

Backer Discontent Over Monetization

The highly anticipated real-time strategy (RTS) game, Stormgate – aiming to be a Starcraft II successor – has experienced a challenging launch. Despite raising over $2.3 million on Kickstarter (against a $35 million initial goal), backers feel misled by the game's monetization. Those who pledged $60 for the "Ultimate" package expected complete early access content, a promise seemingly unfulfilled.

Many viewed Frost Giant Studios' project as passion-driven, contributing to its success. While advertised as free-to-play with microtransactions, the aggressive monetization has alienated many backers. A single campaign chapter (three missions) costs $10, and a single co-op character costs the same – double the price of Starcraft II's equivalent. Many backers, having invested significantly, expected full early access gameplay. The addition of a new character, Warz, on launch day, excluded from Kickstarter rewards, further fueled their frustration.

"You can take the developer out of Blizzard, but you can’t take Blizzard out of the developer," commented Steam user Aztraeuz, highlighting the irony of backers supporting the game to see it succeed, only to encounter pre-launch microtransactions they didn't own.

Frost Giant Studios responded on Steam, acknowledging the misunderstanding regarding Kickstarter bundle content and thanking players. They pledged to provide the next paid Hero free to backers who pledged at the "Ultimate Founder’s Pack tier and above." However, this excludes Warz, citing prior purchases making retroactive free access impossible.

Despite this gesture, many remain critical of the monetization and underlying gameplay issues.

Frost Giant Addresses Post-Launch Feedback

Stormgate carries significant expectations, developed by Starcraft II veterans. While the core RTS gameplay shows potential, criticisms include aggressive monetization, visual issues, missing campaign features, underwhelming unit interactions, and unchallenging AI.

These factors contribute to a "Mixed" Steam rating, with some labeling it "Starcraft II at home." However, reviews also acknowledge the game's potential for improvement in areas such as story and visuals. For a complete review of Stormgate's Early Access, please refer to our full review.