The survival game slash battle royale title Darwin Project goes free-to-play following its release on Steam Early Access in early March.
It was previously available for $15 in Early Access and in the Xbox One Game Preview. Darwin Project has apparently gained a fewer number of players than it would have had it been released for free.
Scavengers Studio Wants More Players
The low number of players than what Scavengers Studio anticipated prompted it to release the battle royale game to make it available for free. Now, the team expects to have as many players coming in as possible.
"Lately, members of our community have reported longer queue times and difficulty finding matches in lesser populated servers," said Simon Darveau, creative director. "To bring in new players and maintain a level of activity that ensures players are able to get the most out of Darwin Project, we've decided to make it more accessible by removing the price tag."
Steam also reflects the price change. However, the Darwin Project remains at $15 on the Xbox One. According to the studio, it will share more news about it in due time.
Darwin Project Early Access Players Will Get A Bonus
Those who already paid the $15 will get the Founders Pack containing in-game cosmetic items. Three legendary axes, three legendary bows, two legendary sets, a full jumpsuit collection, and five fan gifts will be added to their inventory on April 24.
On the same day, Scavengers Studios will introduce said cosmetic items to the Darwin Project. Other players will also be able to purchase these items with real money. Those who prefer not spending anything can get most of them through progression.
Still, the Scavengers Studio maintains that the Darwin Project will never be a pay-to-win. The studio will reportedly not sell items that will give players an advantage.
Darwin Project vs. Other Battle Royale Titles
The Darwin Project joins the ranks of Fortnite and PlayerUnknown's Battlegrounds as a battle royale title.
What sets it apart is the "show director" who oversees the map and manipulate it to make it more challenging. They can close off areas or drop nuclear bombs as they like. Twitch and Mixer viewers will be able to suggest and vote on what the show director should do next.
The players on the map have the ability to track others by following trails or finding maps. They can also simultaneously hear the shadow director, but they cannot talk to each other.
