Starbreeze Studio is set to release its highly anticipated game, Payday 3, this September. The game, which will be available on platforms such as PC, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X|S, is the next installment in the acclaimed Payday franchise. As a cooperative first-person shooter, Payday 3 brings the thrill of heists within the metropolitan expanse of New York City. Both solo and multiplayer modes are available to cater to a variety of gameplay preferences.
However, the developer has imposed a new requirement that is causing some waves amongst its fanbase – a constant internet connection. Regardless of whether players are indulging in the game solo or taking on heists with friends or in-game bots, Payday 3 won’t allow offline play. This mandatory online connection is a drastic departure from previous game iterations, and it’s a decision that has been met with mixed reactions.
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The move towards an online-only model is justified by the studio’s implementation of advanced features like cross-progression and crossplay. These elements enable players to save and transfer their game data across multiple platforms, providing a unified gaming experience. Despite the perceived convenience, these features rely heavily on internet connectivity, hence the need for a constant online presence.
The transition towards the Nebula service, a powerful game development and distribution platform, is the main reason for this online requirement. Nebula’s robust support for cross-platform play and data storage has led Starbreeze to make the move to an always-online model. It appears, therefore, that offline mode for Payday 3 might be off the cards for the foreseeable future.
Despite the technological advantages, the new game requirement has sparked considerable backlash from the community. Fans have voiced their frustration, expressing their wish to have the option of playing offline. Some have even threatened to stop playing Payday 3 altogether in favor of other heist games that still offer an offline mode. Only time will tell how this change will ultimately impact the game’s reception and success after its September launch.