Battlefield: Hardline remains available with a paid membership option.
Battlefield: Hardline remains available with a paid membership option.
Games haven't become more costly over time. The increase in cost over the last two decades is mainly due to inflation, which also impacts your paycheck. Additionally, there are many options now to buy games for significantly less than the manufacturer's suggested price, making them even more affordable.
You're referring to a single payment each year, which is consistent with your usual situation.
DLC can work well if it comes after the game launch and brings fresh, engaging content. Many titles have succeeded in this way. When DLC is offered, it often represents the latest digital evolution of classic expansion models. Prices for games have risen steadily over time, likely starting higher after Doom, yet a package including DLC later on can feel reasonable if the added value is clear. The Battlefield series has struggled with DLC, as map packs tend to split fans and rarely deliver meaningful new experiences. The premium model feels restrictive; EA seems to expect full payment upfront before revealing what’s included. Players familiar with the series will recall a period when new maps for BF2 and BF2142 were typically free.
Sorry, I got a bit dusty from the old computer, but I’ve corrected my previous message to say it was a one-time payment.
A DLC won't force hardline; the less people pay, the quicker they return to normal battlefield operations.