Fans gutted by always-on online requirement for Payday 3

That being said, some players are less troubled by the decision. They argue that the online requirement could be similar to Grand Theft Auto Online and other such games, where progression data isn't stored locally but on a server, thus requiring a network connection for profile loading and data saving. Moreover, the game's focus on co-op gameplay makes the online requirement a necessity for many.

From the developer's perspective, the introduction of an always-online system may be a way to modernize the franchise. Its a feature that aims to seamlessly blend single-player and multiplayer experiences, which aligns with the game's goal to give fans a versatile experience akin to a Mission Impossible-esque stealth encounter, or an all-out shooter experience.

Starbreeze has been careful to address the game's evolution, striving to retain the core Payday feeling while modernizing the key aspects to match the expectations of contemporary gaming. As producer Andreas Häll-Penninger pointed out, they aim to ensure the pacing, movement, and gunplay feel like Payday, while also providing a modern FPS game experience.

However, it's important to remember that the final decision on the implementation of this always-online feature remains uncertain.

What's clear though, is that these kinds of decisions have far-reaching implications for the gaming community, which could have an impact on the game's reception at launch. They highlight the ever-evolving nature of video games and the need for developers to balance the desire for innovation with the needs and desires of their player base.

As we approach Payday 3's release on September 21, it will be interesting to see how Starbreeze navigates its way through this storm. Will they stay the course, or will the voices of their concerned community prompt a change in direction? Only time will tell.

At the very least, Payday 3 will be priced lower compared to its contemporaries. Also, while the game's graphics, based on the recently leaked footage, have drawn criticism, the developers are likely looking to improve this in time. Keep in mind that Payday 2 remains alive to this date after being released in 2013. So, while most developers are looking to impress audiences as soon as the game rolls out, Starbreeze might be looking to play the long game.