Last Epoch, an action RPG, may not be classified as a live service title, but it's important to understand whether it features microtransactions or not.
Last Epoch is priced at $34.99 on Steam and does include microtransactions. Players have the option to exchange real money for an in-game currency called Epoch Points, which can be used to acquire cosmetics from the in-game store.
Developer Eleventh Hour Games is currently offering different bundles of Epoch Points for purchase on Steam. These bundles range from 50 Epoch Points for $4.99 to 200 Epoch Points for $19.99, with additional items included in more expensive bundles.
Eleventh Hour Games has assured players that there will be no pay-to-win elements in Last Epoch. The game will never offer gameplay advantages through real money purchases. All items available for purchase will be purely cosmetic.
Game director Judd Cobler explained the inclusion of microtransactions in a forum post in May 2023. He stated that the $35 price tag was not intended to be the sole source of income for Last Epoch. The studio needs other avenues to generate revenue and cover development costs. Cobler also acknowledged mistakes made during the game's early access period in handling microtransactions.
Following feedback from fans, Eleventh Hour Games made adjustments to the conversion rate between Epoch Points and USD. Now, 10 Epoch Points are equivalent to one dollar, and the prices of cosmetics have been reduced. Additionally, all items in the store are sold in 50 point increments, ensuring that players only spend the amount they need.
In conclusion, Last Epoch features microtransactions in the form of Epoch Points, which can be purchased with real money. However, these microtransactions are limited to cosmetic items only, and the game does not offer any gameplay advantages through real money purchases. The developer has taken feedback into account and made adjustments to ensure a fair and balanced experience for all players.
