Escape from Tarkov’s The Unheard Edition caught in pay-to-win scandal
We hope that Battlestate Games' Escape from Tarkov has an 'escape' plan because it's the latest big game to be caught in a pay-to-win scandal. When it comes to modern shooters, we tend to associate pay-to-win with Call of Duty and Fortnite, introducing ridiculous skins that let you lurk in the shadows and earn easy kills.
However, with the reveal of Escape from Tarkov's new The Unheard Edition, the tactical FPS is embroiled in an argument about whether paying more for this beefed-up version also comes with an advantage on the battlefield. Safe to say, battle lines have been drawn, and opinions are divided.
Escape from Tarkov releases The Unheard Edition
Escape from Tarkov's 0.14.6 patch notes have revealed The Unheard Edition, which will replace the previous Edge of Darkness Edition but with even more bonuses. The big win here is access to the new PvE mode, which boasts full progression and quests that won't be wiped.
After months of asking, we've effectively got a single-player Tarkov that also lets you team up with friends without worrying about rivals. There's also the addition of an increased pocket size that lets players fit full mags, as well as increased skill levels at the start of a wipe - but more on these features after the jump.
The Unheard Edition comes after Edge of Darkness owners were promised all future DLCs at no extra cost, although this feels very much like a DLC to us. The benefits don't end here, with The Unheard Edition also offering the largest stash, longer durations to collect in-game rewards, bigger flea market capacity, and access to the 'Test Server.'
The Unheard Edition sparks pay-to-win complaints
Over on X (formerly known as Twitter), escapees are sharing their concerns that Escape from Tarkov is going down the slippery slope of pay-to-win. In particular, a bigger stash, pockets, and better weapons have led to accusations that those who buy The Unheard Edition will have a major advantage over others.
One Tarkov supporter waded in and said, "If you think any of the features in this new "The Unheard Version" are going to increase your survival rate or make you win pvp fights you have no idea how Tarkov works... It's not Pay to win. You will not win more."
Others were less convinced, as one sceptic added, "I get that it's not gonna like 'make you a better gamer' but a head start in skills? That's rubbin some butt cheeks on the ptw d*ck for me." Another said, "Ye buying faster movement speed, increased jump height and higher carrying weight isn't p2w at all 🤡."
Even if The Unheard Edition can't officially be imprisoned in the pay-to-win camp, it's much like Call of Duty's recent 'pay-to-win' Killer skin. There's currently no price tag for The Unheard Edition, but as the Escape from Tarkov streamers look poised to flock to it, expect the pay-to-win saga to rumble on.
