Evolve, the multi-awarded massively multiplayer online (MMO) shooter from Turtle Rock Studios, is relaunching itself as a completely free-to-play MMO game.
With gameplay features combining the elements found in Activision's Destiny and Capcom's Monster Hunter, Evolve was first met with an overwhelmingly positive response from the gaming community, but the ratings declined later on because of updates upon updates of paid content, or what the developers refer to as the "DLC s-storm."
"[W]hen Evolve launched, the reception wasn't what we expected. Sure, there were some good reviews. There were also bad reviews. Yes, there was excitement. There was also disappointment — for players and for us," the developers write in a post on its community forums, addressing the game's "vigorous overhaul."
"We want that magic back and we aim to make it happen," they add, explaining that over the past year, they've been making "a lot of changes, improvements and additions to Evolve" and have plans to push more content, presumably, for free, starting today on its rebranded free edition, Evolve Stage 2. This new version also means that the game will be re-entering beta build to make way for the current and upcoming massive changes.
Gameplay Changes
Four players versus one monster will still be the heart and center of Evolve Stage 2's gameplay, though an improved gameplay experience in all areas should be expected.
• An updated Spectator mode will enable users to stream the game's content much easier.
• All Trapper classes are now equipped with the Planet Scanner ability that also gives them a boost in speed to hunt down monsters rapidly and trap it in a Dome.
• All classes come equipped with passive regeneration outside of battle.
• Support classes can boost allies using a Shield Burst ability within range, replenishing a character's shield.
• A defense matrix ability will now help all assault rifle classes receive reduced damage from monsters.
• Monsters have been upgraded with more health, power and speed and "start with enough skill points to activate all four abilities at the start of a match."
• Visual effects and the user interface (UI) have been revamped to provide cleaner and easily distinguishable gameplays.
• Game maps have been updated to provide more suitable environments in hunting mode.
Founder Status
As for people who initially bought native copies of Evolve and its extensive DLC packs before its current free version launch, these players will automatically receive Founder Status in-game, which provides not only "a ton of bonuses" but also first hand access to future Evolve Stage 2 content.
In addition, all previously bought content can be accessed immediately within the game, as well as owned hunters, monsters and skins, and four new animated Founder badge. Three thousand silver keys will be waiting for Founder account holders when they launch the game that can be used to purchase in-game cosmetics and wherever applicable in the game's store.
Currently, Evolve Stage 2 is only available for PC platforms, downloadable on the Steam store. PS4 and Xbox console users will have to wait indefinitely as the game undergoes beta phase, which after conclusion should launch the game across these console platforms.
Evolve Stage 2's announcement trailer may be viewed below:
