Respawn backtracks on Apex Legends Battle Pass changes
Respawn Entertainment has turned the tide Apex Legends‘ latest changes to the Battle Pass after negative player feedback.
Earlier this month, the developer revealed that it would be updating the battle royale’s season-long battle pass system by splitting it in two. The first “half-season” would roll out at the start of Season 22, with the second releasing mid-season, each with 60 tiers of rewards, instead of the usual 110.
The changes would also have removed the ability to purchase the battle pass using Apex Coins – a currency earned within the pass itself – and would instead have players paying real money at $9.99 / £8.99 per “half season”. An optional $19.99 / £17.99 Premium+ track was also revealed, which would have replaced the premium bundle.
Players were quick to voice their displeasure with the changes, which led to Apex Legends review bombed on Steam with over 81,659 negative reviews at the time of writing.
Following negative feedback, Respawn has rolled back the changes.
“You spoke and we listened,” Respawn said in a recent X/Twitter post afterbefore it was confirmed that the ability to purchase the Premium Battle Pass for 950 Apex Coins would be restored at the launch of Season 22.
“We recognize that we could have handled the Battle Pass changes better — that’s our responsibility,” the studio added. “Our intention is to improve the overall value and experience of all of our Battle Pass offerings.”
Respawn then provided a summary of what it plans to change for Season 22. When the new system launches on August 6, the developer will give players the chance to earn the Premium Battle Pass, which can be unlocked by “completing a series of simple in-game challenges.”
When Split 2, the second Battle Pass, launches on September 17, players will be able to obtain the Premium Battle Passes the same way as before: by using 950 Apex Coins.
It was also explained that the Battle Pass options now include better rewards and are quicker to complete with only 60 levels thanks to the new challenges.
“Moving forward, we recognize that we need to be more timely, transparent, and consistent in our communications with you,” Respawn added. “Your priorities are our priorities: cheaters, game stability, and quality of life updates come first. We have to get better, and that’s why we’re acknowledging them here.”