The majority of discussions surrounding season 1 of Diablo 4 have rightly focused on the state of the game in patch 1.1. After the recent campfire discussion and considering the current state of the game, I remain skeptical about its potential for improvement.
However, I want to draw attention to another concerning aspect: the store pricing.
As a player who occasionally invests in skins for games in my regular rotation, I decided to check out the store for Diablo 4 when I started a season character. I noticed the Shadow Walker 8-piece set for the rogue, which, to my surprise, was priced at a staggering 2,800 platinum. Curious about platinum prices, I found out that 2,800 platinum equates to a hefty $28 USD.
My initial reaction was a resounding “no way,” followed by questioning the decision-makers behind these prices. It almost feels like Bobby K’s investment manager is setting them.
Moreover, I observed the 3-piece Darkness Coalesce back plate priced at 1,000 platinum and the Creeping Shadows mount at 1,600 platinum. Both items clearly complement the Shadow Walker set, making it a complete “set” for most players. To put it in perspective, purchasing all three items would cost approximately $54 USD.
I am fully aware that these are cosmetic items and are entirely optional. However, it is essential to consider that Diablo 4 is a $70 game, with optional battle pass and accelerated battle pass options, and now a skin store on top. Unlike a free-to-play game supported by optional microtransactions, this is a full-priced game with in-game transactions.
If we use the 8-piece set as an example, players are being offered skins at 40% of the base cost of the game. Considering the full “set” I mentioned earlier, that amounts to 77% of the base game’s cost.
While gameplay and quality of life issues demand attention and discussion, it is crucial not to overlook the exorbitant pricing in the in-game store. Blizzard might welcome the negative feedback regarding gameplay while they profit from these high prices.
I had concerns when cosmetics were introduced, but I never anticipated it to be this problematic. I am genuinely worried to ask, but is anyone actually shopping at the Diablo 4 store with these prices?
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