After teasing changes two months ago, EA reveals the newly overhauled progression system for Star Wars Battlefront 2 in addition to when players can start using it.
Since its release back in November 2017, Star Wars Battlefront 2 has taken fans on a rollercoaster ride of emotions. The title’s improved gameplay mechanics have been constantly overshadowed by the negative publicity surrounding its microtransactions, which many critics and fans viewed as predatory in the way it pushed players to spend money in order to gain in-game items. While DICE disabled the system, many in-game mechanics were clearly designed around it, including the progression system. After teasing that changes were coming, EA has finally revealed how the new system will work.
In a new blog post, the company confirmed that Star Wars Battlefront 2 is getting an overhauled progression system starting on March 21. After that date, progression is going to be completely linear instead of being tied to player star cards. Players now earn experience for classes, ships, and heroes that are played during matches, and when they level up, the player earns 1 skill point that can be used to unlock or upgrade an eligible star card.
In addition, EA confirmed that items affecting gameplay, which include star cards, will be earned through gameplay and can no longer be purchased. Crates are no longer available for purchase and now only contain credits and cosmetic items instead of star cards. Players can earn new crates by logging in daily, completing milestones or timed challenges.
The post was also quick to point out that this isn’t the only change coming in the near future. The developer is planning to add the ability to purchase new character skins and appearances in April. Details were limited but players can spend in-game credits or crystals, which are purchased in-game and through online marketplaces.
The loot box and microtransaction controversy that spun up, thanks in large part to Star Wars Battlefront 2, has clearly had an impact on EA and some of its upcoming titles still in development. DICE has already confirmed that this year’s Battlefield game is treading carefully by keeping its battlepacks system similar to what was offered in Battlefield 1 and previous games. BioWare’s futuristic shooter Anthem continues to hold internal meetings to discuss the idea of loot boxes and progression in an effort to avoid the missteps of Battlefront 2.
Star Wars Battlefront 2 is available now on PC, PlayStation 4, and Xbox One.
