EA responds to Battlefront 2 loot box concerns

Now that Star Wars Battlefront 2’s (extended) public beta has come to a close, developers DICE and publisher Electronic Arts are processing feedback from the multiplayer test — particularly around the game’s controversial implementation of loot boxes and player progression.

“Rest assured, we’re continuing to listen to you coming out of Beta,” the developers wrote on the game’s website. “We’re taking a look at some of the most discussed topics, from Crates and progression to Strike mode (which we're considering changing to a best of three), the Specialist’s Infiltration ability (which might be a little too overpowered) and more. Oh, and the First Order Flametrooper needs some work — we agree he could use a little more... firepower...”

In its post, DICE and EA specifically address concerns about crates and progression, saying that “the complete system was not in the Beta and will continue to be tuned over time.”

“As a balance goal, we’re working towards having the most powerful items in the game only earnable via in-game achievements,” EA and DICE said. The post went on to clarify exactly what will be in Battlefront 2’s crates and how players can upgrade the game’s Star Cards.

Crates will include a mix of of Star Cards, Outfits, Emotes or Victory Poses.

Players earn crates by completing challenges and other gameplay milestones, or by purchasing them with in-game credits or Crystals, our premium currency.

If you get a duplicate Star Card in a crate, you will get crafting parts which you can then use to help upgrade the Star Card of your choice.

And lastly, you have to earn the right to be able to upgrade Star Cards and unlock most Weapons. You can only upgrade or unlock them if you have reached a high enough rank, which is determined by playing the game.

DICE and EA said they’re working on ways “to ensure the game is fun for everyone,” and that they’ll be balancing the game over time.

“We will work to make sure the system is balanced both for players who want to earn everything, as well as for players who are short on time and would like to move faster in their progress towards various rewards,” they said.

Players will get a chance to see how quickly DICE and EA can respond to player feedback next month. Star Wars Battlefront 2 will be released on PlayStation 4, Windows PC and Xbox One on Nov. 17.