The Escape from Tarkov community is currently voicing its dissatisfaction over the release of the Unheard Edition priced at $250, featuring upgrades that have stirred accusations of pay-to-win mechanics. Despite Escape from Tarkov enjoying a solid reputation as a top-tier survival FPS game for years, its standing among enthusiasts has been challenged in recent times.
In a significant move last February, Escape from Tarkov introduced microtransactions for the first time, allowing players to engage in offline raids with friends for $10 and later offering additional stash space at approximately $1.50 per extra storage line. While the community wasn't thrilled about the arrival of microtransactions in Escape from Tarkov, these additions did not cause much controversy as they did not provide blatant pay-to-win advantages. However, the recent unveiling of the Unheard Edition seems to have changed that sentiment.
Battlestate Games, the developer, recently unveiled a new update for Escape from Tarkov, bringing about various in-game modifications. Among the updates was the introduction of the Unheard Edition, now available for purchase. This premium edition, priced at $250, boosts character skill levels at the start of a wipe, expands stash and pocket capacity, offers an AI scav bonus for users with six or more reputation levels with Fence, and grants exclusive access to a new PvE co-op mode. The exclusivity of this mode has sparked particular discontent, especially since the previously released Edge of Darkness premium edition was advertised to grant access to all future DLCs. Nevertheless, Edge of Darkness owners must upgrade to the Unheard Edition to partake in the new mode.
Controversial Features of the $250 Unheard Edition by Escape from Tarkov
In response to the community's grievances, Escape from Tarkov's lead community manager clarified that the new mode should not be classified as DLC but rather as a distinctive feature of the Unheard Edition. While some argue that most definitions of DLC would include the mode, Battlestate Games stands firm in its position.
It remains uncertain whether Battlestate Games will address some of the most contentious aspects of the Unheard Edition, as several Edge of Darkness owners are advocating for access to the new PvE mode. Despite the recent uproar, Escape from Tarkov may continue to thrive as one of the premier FPS survival games due to its captivating gameplay and intricate mechanics.
Recently, Battlestate Games launched Escape from Tarkov: Arena, a standalone PvP title, following its announcement in 2022. Although Tarkov: Arena has yet to gain significant traction, Battlestate Games shared a roadmap for the game outlining new modes, integration with standard Escape from Tarkov accounts, and other enhancements.