Apex Legends: Director Discusses Reversal of Battle Pass Changes

The creators of Apex Legends have reversed the controversial modifications made to the game’s Battle Pass, and the director has clarified the reasoning behind the initial changes and the decision to reverse them.

Respawn made a major announcement on July 8 regarding significant changes to the Apex Battle Pass. The most contentious aspect of the update was the new method of purchasing the Pass, as it could now only be bought using real money instead of in-game Apex Coins.

On July 24, the developers apologized to their player base and pledged to “get better”at transparently communicating why and when massive alterations are on the horizon, resulting in the reversal of the change.

During an interview with IGN, Steven Ferreira, the Game Director for Apex Legends, explained the reasoning behind the decision to move away from in-game currency, stating that it was made in order to offer players more choices with their earned funds.

Players often saved up Apex Coins earned from the Battle Pass to purchase the next season’s pass.

According to Ferreira, Respawn expressed concern that players were receiving greater benefits from actual money because it granted them the ability to make decisions, in contrast to being limited to using only Apex Coins.

“This explains the reason for the shift in focus towards currencies and options for players to decide how and where they want to spend it. Instead of creating 110 levels, we are now focusing on creating unique content for players to unlock.”

Ferreira confirmed that the change was implemented by Respawn, not EA, after reviewing data that showed low player engagement with the pass and content that had been unlocked.

“Our main objective was to redirect our development efforts towards creating content that players are actively using and find valuable. As previously mentioned, we also plan on using some of this content to unlock currencies that will give players the freedom to choose what they want.”

The director further emphasized the previous apology issued to players and stated that the developers have now recognized the importance of gradually implementing such changes while seeking additional input and involvement from the community.

Ferreira stated that our decision to introduce this without involving the community in the design process was a mistake. Considering that the community values the Battle Pass as much as we do, it was a misstep on our part.

Despite the positive response from the developer, Apex players remain concerned about the game’s future.