Following intense player backlash, Spectre Divide developer Mountaintop Studios swiftly adjusted in-game skin and bundle pricing just hours after the online FPS title's launch. This article details the studio's response and the ongoing player reaction.
Spectre Divide Addresses High Skin Prices After Player Outcry
SP Refunds for Early Buyers
Mountaintop Studios announced significant price reductions, addressing widespread criticism over the initially high cost of in-game cosmetics. Game director Lee Horn confirmed price cuts ranging from 17% to 25% across weapons and character skins. This decision followed a wave of negative player feedback immediately after the game's release.
The studio acknowledged player concerns, stating, "We've heard your feedback and are implementing changes. Weapons and outfits will see permanent price reductions of 17-25%. Players who purchased items before the price adjustment will receive a 30% SP [in-game currency] refund." The refund is rounded up to the nearest 100 SP.
The controversial Cryo Kinesis Masterpiece bundle, initially priced at approximately $85 (9,000 SP), exemplified the pricing issues that sparked the controversy. While the 30% SP refund applies to pre-reduction purchases, the Starter pack, Sponsors, and Endorsement upgrades remain unaffected. The studio clarified that Founder's and Supporter pack owners who purchased these items will receive additional SP.
Player reaction to the price adjustments remains mixed, mirroring the game's current "Mixed" Steam rating (49% Negative at the time of writing). Negative reviews flooded Steam following the launch. While some players appreciated the developer's responsiveness, others voiced continued concerns.
One Twitter (X) user commented, "Not quite enough, but it's a start! Glad you're listening to player feedback." Another suggested an improvement: "Allowing individual item purchases from bundles (like hairstyles or accessories) would likely increase revenue."
However, skepticism remains. Some criticized the timing, stating, "These changes should have been implemented beforehand, not as a reaction to upset players. This approach could ultimately harm the game's long-term prospects, especially with future competition from other free-to-play titles."
