For many, microtransactions have become one of the worst aspects of the video game industry. Publishers may promise extra gear or experience, but the only thing the gamers see is yet another way for studios to make money off of their fans. That's not to say microtransactions are going away anytime soon — these days, entire games are built around the concept, and most big-budget releases are accompanied by some sort of optional mini-purchase.
Halo managed to avoid such transactions... until now. Realistically, it was just a matter of time: 343 Industries recently announced that microtransactions would be making their way into Halo 5: Guardians. What's even worse is that they'd be a part of the game's multiplayer.
Since then, the developer has tried its hardest to assure gamers that microtransactions wouldn't upset the shooter's delicate balance. Previously, 343 Industries confirmed that the only cosmetic microtransactions would be available in the highly competitive Arena mode... but what about Warzone, the gigantic vehicle-based gametype? Microtransactions have a bit more of an effect, but 343 Industries is still promising fans that it won't turn Halo 5 into a pay-to-win game.
It's an interesting system, though fans will have to wait until launch to see if Halo 5: Guardians can keep itself from falling into the "pay-to-win" category.
Either way, it won't be long before fans find out: Halo 5: Guardians is set to launch on October 27.
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