When it comes to massively multiplayer online games, better known as MMOs, the line between love and hate is as thin as the edge of a sword. Every day, like clockwork, there's always news about a game ruffling gamers' feathers, and in the current cycle, RuneScape has found itself in the crosshairs.
The popular MMORPG that has been around since some of us were in diapers is now the talk of the town because of the bane of all that is good in gaming: microtransactions. Earlier this week, the game introduced a Hero Pass, essentially the game's version of a battle pass system. Less than a week later, RuneScape was hit with a barrage of negative reviews on Steam, with the game's rating plummeting to 'Mostly Negative'.
Now, let's put this into perspective. This isn't just a bunch of newbies throwing a tantrum. Most negative reviewers have logged hundreds of hours into the game. When your most loyal players are this upset, you know you've stepped on a landmine.
The main bone of contention has been the perception that developer Jagex is prioritizing profit over player experience. Players argue that Jagex is destroying the game with its relentless push for microtransactions, and honestly, who can blame them? The game's already filled to the brim with microtransactions, and the introduction of the Hero Pass feels like the straw that broke the camel's back.