The free-to-play action RPG Dauntless once held great promise on Steam. However, its Awakening update turned out to be a disaster, erasing players' progress and removing hundreds of items. This led to the game being widely hated due to a monetization policy that some now describe as "predatory." Two weeks after players expressed their genuine views (it's not fair to label it as review bombing as the changes were clearly contrary to what players loved), the developers at Phoenix Labs have finally taken action.

Phoenix Labs Acknowledges Dauntless' Steam Debacle and Promises Changes

Progression Reset

Players who were frustrated by the wasted time due to the update will be compensated with in-game currency. This is to better respect their lost progress and investment. It shows the developers' commitment to making things right. With this currency, players can start anew and leave behind the previous efforts that were lost. 2: The progression reset is a crucial step in restoring the faith of players. It allows them to build their characters and progress in the game from scratch, with a fresh start and new opportunities. This gesture by the developers is a sign of their understanding of the impact of the update on players and their determination to make things better.

Monetization Practices

The developers are now reevaluating their monetization practices. They have listened to the community's feedback and are committed to making changes. This includes ensuring that the game's monetization is fair and does not alienate players. By addressing these issues, the developers hope to regain the trust of the player base. 2: Monetization is an important aspect of any game, and it's crucial that it is done in a way that enhances the player experience rather than detracting from it. The developers' willingness to listen and make changes in this area is a positive sign for the future of the game.

Technical and Gameplay Issues

The letter also addressed the technical and gameplay issues that players faced. The developers are working hard to fix these problems and improve the overall gameplay. They have identified the areas that need attention and are taking steps to address them. 2: Technical issues can often ruin a player's experience, and the developers at Phoenix Labs are aware of this. By focusing on fixing these issues, they are aiming to provide a more stable and enjoyable gaming environment for players.

Loss of Core Features

The game had undergone significant changes, and some players felt that the core features were lost. The developers are now working to restore these features and bring back the essence of Dauntless. 2: The core features of a game are what make it unique and appealing. The developers' efforts to restore these features show their dedication to the game and their desire to meet the expectations of players. They understand that without the core features, the game is just an empty shell.