Stormgate Microtransactions Criticized by Backers and Fans

Stormgate's Steam early access launch has sparked a divided response among fans and backers. This article examines the concerns raised by Kickstarter backers and analyzes the game's current state.

Stormgate's Rocky Start

Backer Discontent Over Monetization

The highly anticipated real-time strategy (RTS) game, Stormgate – aiming to be a Starcraft II successor – has experienced a challenging launch. Despite a successful Kickstarter campaign raising over $2.3 million (against a planned $35 million), backers feel misled by the game's monetization. Those who pledged $60 for the "Ultimate" package expected complete early access content, a promise seemingly unmet.

Many viewed Frost Giant Studios' project as passion-driven, contributing to its success. While advertised as free-to-play with microtransactions, the aggressive monetization model has disappointed many backers. Individual campaign chapters (three missions) cost $10, and co-op characters are priced identically – double Starcraft II's cost. Backers who invested $60 or more anticipated full early access gameplay, feeling betrayed by the omission of day-one content, such as the Warz character, from their Kickstarter rewards.

"You can take the developer out of Blizzard, but you can’t take Blizzard out of the developer," commented Steam user Aztraeuz, highlighting the irony of backers supporting the game only to encounter pre-launch microtransactions they didn't own.

In response to criticism, Frost Giant Studios acknowledged the misunderstanding regarding Kickstarter bundle content, stating that many anticipated the "Ultimate" bundles to include all early access gameplay. As compensation, they offered the next paid Hero free to backers who pledged at the "Ultimate Founder’s Pack tier and above," excluding Warz due to prior purchases.

Despite this, frustration persists over the aggressive monetization and underlying gameplay issues.

Addressing Community Feedback Post-Launch

Stormgate carries significant expectations, developed by Starcraft II veterans. While the core RTS gameplay shows potential, criticism focuses on aggressive monetization, visual quality, missing campaign features, underwhelming unit interactions, and unchallenging AI.

This has resulted in a "Mixed" Steam rating, with some labeling it "Starcraft II at home." However, reviews also highlight the game's potential for improvement in areas such as narrative and visuals. For a comprehensive review of Stormgate's Early Access, please see our full review.