Escape from Tarkov causes firestorm by locking PvE mode behind $250 special edition

Battlestate Games has decided that access to a PvE mode for its otherwise PvP-centric shooter Escape from Tarkov is worth a whole lot of money. Specifically $250, as playing the mode will release only with the Unheard Edition of the game.

The pricey bundle packs a bunch of other gubbins like more storage, a unique melee weapon, more slots on the flea market, and free access to future DLCs, but it’s access to that co-op PvE mode with no wipes that has caused an uproar among players.

It’s not just new buyers who are being fleeced either: Those who previously bought the Edge of Darkness edition, which also promised access to all future DLCs, will have to purchase a $100 upgrade to get access to the PvE mode, as the Edge of Darkness edition is no longer on sale. What’s making that matter worse is Battlestate’s response to that point, as it claims PvE is a “unique feature” and therefore doesn’t constitute DLC. The studio also attempted to appease Edge of Darkness owners by… granting them only six months of offline PvE mode access.

The new edition and the studio’s initial reaction to player complaints has ignited a tire fire across the playerbase on Twitter, Reddit, and the official Discord; replies to the concessions for previous special edition buyers have been extremely spicy and the Discord has reportedly limited chatter about the edition to only two channels.

PvE mode is a unique feature which is available only for the owners of The Unheard Edition.

We will keep you updated on new features exclusive for EOD owners#EscapefromTarkov

— Escape from Tarkov (@tarkov) April 25, 2024

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