Stormgate's Steam early access launch has sparked a divided response among fans and backers. This article examines the concerns raised by Kickstarter backers and the game's current state.
Stormgate's Rocky Early Access Debut
Backer Disappointment Over Monetization
Frost Giant Studios' Stormgate, a real-time strategy game aiming to evoke the spirit of Starcraft II, has experienced a challenging launch. Despite raising over $2.3 million on Kickstarter (against a $35 million initial funding goal), the game faces criticism from backers feeling deceived. Those who pledged $60 for the "Ultimate" package anticipated complete early access content, a promise seemingly unmet.
Many viewed the project as a passion-driven undertaking, eager to support its success. While advertised as free-to-play with microtransactions, the aggressive monetization has alienated many backers.
Individual campaign chapters (three missions) cost $10, and co-op characters are priced identically—double the cost of Starcraft II's. Backers who invested $60 or more expected full early access experience, including the three chapters and three characters promised. The addition of a new character, Warz, on launch day, excluded from Kickstarter rewards, further fueled their frustration.
"You can take the developer out of Blizzard, but you can’t take Blizzard out of the developer," commented Steam user Aztraeuz, highlighting the irony of backers supporting the game only to encounter what they perceive as exploitative practices.
In response to the backlash, Frost Giant Studios issued a statement on Steam, expressing gratitude for player support.
While claiming to have clarified Kickstarter bundle content, the studio acknowledged many backers expected the "Ultimate" bundles to encompass all early access gameplay. As compensation, 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 concession, dissatisfaction persists regarding the game's monetization and underlying gameplay issues.
Frost Giant Addresses Post-Launch Feedback
Stormgate carries significant expectations, developed by Starcraft II veterans aiming to revive the genre's classic appeal. Player reception, however, is mixed. While core RTS gameplay shows potential, criticism targets aggressive monetization, visual shortcomings, missing campaign features, underwhelming unit interactions, and unchallenging AI.
This has resulted in a "Mixed" Steam rating, with some labeling it "Starcraft II at home." Despite flaws, the game's potential for improvement in areas like narrative and visuals remains.
For a comprehensive review of Stormgate's Early Access, please refer to our full review.
