Electronic Arts withdraws in-game purchases from new Stars Wars Battlefront II

Video games developer and publisher Electronic Arts is embroiled in controversy over its new Stars Wars Battlefron II game release, with players complaining about the difficulty of winning sufficient points to receive a loot box, and an opinion by the Belgian Gambling Commission that loot boxes acquired with points purchased with real money constitutes gambling (see previous reports).

Loot boxes are virtual crates containing upgrades, accessories or prizes which are awarded to players who have accumulated in-game points, but for those without the patience to slog through hours of gameplay the crates can also be acquired using points bought with real money.

One report quoted a player who calculated that unlocking everything in the game the hard way costs 4,528 hours or $2,100.

On Thursday, just before the full release of the new game, EA backed down on the issue, advising in a statement by Battlefront general manager Oskar Gabrielson that it has temporarily placed a moratorium on in-game purchases whilst it further considers the issue.

Oskarson apologised to fans, saying:

“We hear you loud and clear, so we’re turning off all in-game purchases. We will now spend more time listening, adjusting, balancing and tuning. This means that the option to purchase crystals in the game is now offline, and all progression will be earned through gameplay.”

However, he added that crystals will be available to purchase in-game at a later date.