The pitchforks are out. At this point last year, everyone and their mother was pointed their fingers at Hogwarts Legacy, damning it to Azkaban because of the controversial issues surrounding the Wizarding World's author, J.K. Rowling. This time around, the internet's ire is focused on Capcom's highly anticipated sequel, Dragon's Dogma 2.
Arriving over a decade after the underrated first title, Dragon's Dogma 2 has become the center of controversy, dividing gamers over a contentious topic: microtransactions.
On March 22, Dragon's Dogma 2 took players aback with previously undisclosed microtransactions now embedded within the gameplay of the single-player action RPG. These in-game purchases, ranging from $1 to $5, include items such as Rift Crystals for hiring Pawns, Portcrystals for fast travel, and various other consumables and equipment that potentially affect gameplay convenience and progression.
To no one's surprise, the mere presence of these microtransactions has led to a significant review bombing of the game on Steam. The game's rating, which currently stands at "Mixed" quickly plummeted to "Mostly Negative" shortly after launching. The negative comments highlight Dragon's Dogma 2's $70 price tag for a single-player RPG. Many argue this was more than enough for Capcom to recoup the costs. But instead of being content, Capcom risked angering gamers around the world.