Crash Bandicoot 4 Dev Says ‘No Microtransactions’ – But I Don’t Believe It
Fool me twice. | Source: Activision
- Developer Toys For Boys says Crash Bandicoot 4: It’s About Time won’t feature microtransactions (MTX).
- A Microsoft Store listing that confirmed ‘in-app purchases’ sparked speculation around their inclusion.
- Nitro-Fueled’s micro-transaction story suggests it may be best not to take these at face value
Crash Bandicoot 4: It’s About Time won’t feature micro-transactions, according to developer Toys For Boys.
No MTX in Crash Bandicoot 4: It’s About Time
In a tweet authored yesterday, the developer clarified in no uncertain terms that the game would not be tempting players to part with their hard-earned cash by flogging shiny in-game purchases.
We’re seeing confusion about #MTX in @CrashBandicoot 4 and want to be (crystal) clear: There are NO MICROTRANSACTIONS in #Crash4. As a bonus, the Totally Tubular skins are included in all digital versions of the game.
This is certainly welcome news after eagle-eyed fans spotted a Microsoft store listing that indicates ‘Offers in-app purchases.’
The phrase had fans speculating that Activision would find a way to weave micro-transactions into the fourth mainline entry of the beloved series. Coming from micro-transactions titan Activision, their inclusion would be par for the course.
Despite these assurances, I recommended caution. It may be best not to take these at face value. If Crash Team Racing Nitro-Fueled taught us anything, it’s that Activision is more than happy to sneak in micro-transactions post-launch.
A Nitro-Fueled Lesson
In Nitro-Fueled’s case, developer Beenox confirmed that the game would be micro-transactions-free weeks before release . Beenox assured new content would be free for the game’s entire life cycle.
One month after launch, Activision dropped an update introducing micro-transactions , specifically the ability to buy in-game currency. Players can spend Wumpa Coins, as the game calls the currency, on character and cosmetic items.
More worryingly, playing the game grants Nitro Points that stack up a battle pass-style meter to unlock rewards. Select skins, only available for Wumpa Coins, offer a boost that accelerates progression, and by extension, obtaining rewards. To jump levels and secure rewards at a faster rate, players can purchase the cosmetics for real-money. It’s insidious purchase goading at its worst.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aOGwx3Ju6QQ
The whole affair was misleading and left nostalgic fans eager to revisit the Crash Bandicoot world with a sour taste.
While its unwise to jump to conclusions before Crash Bandicoot 4: It’s About Time’s arrives in October, we’re talking about Activision. Don’t be surprised if micro-transactions find their way into the game post-release.
Disclaimer: The opinions expressed in this article do not necessarily reflect the views of CCN.com.
