Recent rumors suggest that Respawn Entertainment and Electronic Arts might be considering a subscription service for their popular battle royale titleApex Legends. The rumors first appeared when multipleApex Legendsplayers reported that they were given a survey pop-up inside the game, asking them if they’d be interested in a paid subscription to the game. If there is any truth to this speculation, it would be wise forApex Legendsto look closely at what has madeFortnite’s subscription model, Fortnite Crew, so successful.
As one of the biggest live-service games in the world,Fortnitehas consistently led innovation in monetization strategies. By analyzing everything from the price and content structure to the level of engagement and inclusivity,Apex Legendscan also potentially tap into a lucrative new revenue stream while simultaneously rewarding its most dedicated fans. At the same time, it’s crucial to acknowledge that theApex Legendsfandom is not necessarily happy with a potential subscription model at this point.
The Appeal of a Subscription Service in Fortnite
Live-service games likeFortniteandApex Legendsdepend heavily on continuous updates to keep players engaged, including new cosmetic items, in-game events, limited-time modes, and seasonal battle passes. One way to maintain that sustained engagement and ensure a steady flow of revenue is to offer a subscription service that players can opt into on a monthly basis.Fortnite, for instance, includes several compelling benefits for members, including but not limited to:
Apex Legends’ recent influx of multiple currenciesand multiple passes has fans flooded with monetization options - meaning Respawn would have to be very careful when executing a potential subscription model to avoid alienating the game’s longtime players or overwhelming newcomers with paid offerings.
Key Lessons Apex Legends Could Take From Fortnite
A comparablesubscription package forApex Legends, therefore, might include Apex Coins, the current seasonal Battle Pass, and a similar set of exclusive cosmetics. Nailing the right price point will also be crucial as well, as the in-game items inApex Legendsare often called out for being too overpriced and most of the players either make do with no purchases or look forward to the battle pass exclusives. However, just finding the sweet spot with the price point won’t be enough, as pleasing fans would likely requireApex Legendsto do the following:
1.Apex Legends' Subscription items should featurelimited-edition Legend skins, weapon skins, banner frames, or unique finishing moves, with Respawn ensuring that these items never appear in the standard in-game store.
The flow of Apex Coins and benefits needs to be hassle-free each month with an optional opt-out system.
Fortnite Crew keeps things fresh by providing a new set of cosmetic items monthly.Apex Legendsshould aim to do the same, tailoring each month’s offerings to the particular season or event. At the same time, it must keep the current approach of avoiding a pay-to-win environment.
Potential Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them
While a subscription model holds significant potential for profitability, the game faces several challenges that must be addressed prior to or alongside its introduction. These include persistenthacking issues inApex Legends, network glitches, a lackluster current season, and an overwhelming array of monetization options that could deter players. Moreover, with many gamers already subscribing to multiple platforms and services, it’s unlikely that a majority of the player base is exclusively invested inApex Legends. To thrive, the game must distinguish itself with a carefully crafted subscription offering that provides compelling, exclusive value to justify an additional monthly expense.
Strategic approaches, such as bundling the subscription with other EA services or introducing enticing in-game cross-promotions, could help make the proposition more appealing and allow the service to overcome any hurdles. Respawn would be wise to studyFortnite’s subscription modelin depth and still need to improvise and make things work forApex Legendsto position it correctly, while carefully navigating pitfalls and risky waters.
Apex Legends
WHERE TO PLAY
Conquer with character in Apex Legends, a free-to-play* Hero shooter where legendary characters with powerful abilities team up to battle for fame & fortune on the fringes of the Frontier.Master an ever-growing roster of diverse legends, deep tactical squad play, and bold new innovations that go beyond the Battle Royale experience—all within a rugged world where anything goes. Welcome to the next evolution of Hero Shooter.This game includes optional in-game purchases of virtual currency that can be used to acquire virtual in-game items, including a random selection of virtual in-game items.
