Stormgate Microtransactions Criticized by Backers and Fans

Stormgate's Steam early access launch has generated mixed reactions from fans and backers. This article explores the concerns raised by Kickstarter backers and assesses the game's current state.

Stormgate's Rocky Start

Backer Disappointment Over Monetization

The highly anticipated RTS game, aiming to be a Starcraft II successor, has faced criticism since its Steam release. Despite raising over $2.3 million on Kickstarter (against a $35 million initial goal), backers feel misled by the monetization model. Those who pledged $60 for the "Ultimate" package expected complete early access content, a promise seemingly unmet.

Many backers supported Frost Giant Studios' project out of passion, hoping to contribute to its success. While advertised as free-to-play with microtransactions, the aggressive monetization has left many feeling betrayed.

Individual campaign chapters (three missions) cost $10, as does a single co-op character—double the price of Starcraft II's equivalent. Many backers, having invested $60 or more, expected full early access gameplay. The addition of a new character, Warz, on launch day, excluded from Kickstarter rewards, further fueled this frustration.

One Steam reviewer, Aztraeuz, commented: "You can take the developer out of Blizzard, but you can’t take Blizzard out of the developer... Why are there pre-day 1 microtransactions that we don’t own?"

Frost Giant Studios responded on Steam, acknowledging that many interpreted the "Ultimate" bundles to include all early access content. As a conciliatory gesture, they offered the next paid Hero free to backers at the "Ultimate Founder’s Pack tier and above." However, this excludes Warz, citing prior purchases making retroactive free access impossible.

Despite this, criticism persists regarding aggressive monetization and underlying gameplay flaws.

Addressing Player Feedback Post-Launch

Stormgate carries significant expectations, developed by Starcraft II veterans. While core RTS gameplay shows potential, concerns remain regarding aggressive monetization, visual quality, missing campaign features, unit interactions, and AI challenge.

These issues have resulted in a "Mixed" Steam rating, with some labeling it "Starcraft II at home." Despite these drawbacks, the game's potential for improvement in areas like story and visuals remains. For a comprehensive review, please see the full review linked below.