And again, a game is moving to the Epic Games Store: Dauntless, the free monster-hunting alternative. Players are currently far from thrilled with this decision.
What happened? The developer studio Phoenix Labs announced on the official Dauntless website that it will soon be moving to the Epic Games Store. Those who play Dauntless will have to log in through the new launcher shortly. The old one will be shut down.
What is the problem? Dauntless will be playable exclusively on PC through the Epic Games Store. This means that it will no longer be possible to use the previous launcher. Players will be forced to switch to Epic Games. Phoenix Labs will have to hand over player data to Epic and migrate accounts.
A switch with consequences
When will the switch occur? Phoenix Labs has not yet announced a date, but advises all Dauntless players to switch as soon as possible. Otherwise, player names may be assigned elsewhere.
Do players have to start over? No. The complete account with all progress will be transferred. You can also continue to use any purchased in-game currency.
What happens if one does not want to switch? Then it is necessary to create a new account through Epic Games and start over. The old launcher will be shut down. It will only be possible to play Dauntless on PC through the Epic Games launcher.
The backlash followed immediately
How are players reacting? Chaos has erupted on Reddit after the announcement for several reasons:
- The Epic Games Store currently has an increasingly poor standing among players. The exclusive deal regarding Metro: Exodus already led to an outcry and review bombing of its predecessor on Steam.
- The aggressive approach of Epic in acquiring exclusive titles angers players.
- The Epic Games Store is viewed as relatively insecure. Even the privacy policies are quite “lax.”
- Many are not pleased that Tencent is an investor in Epic Games. Some wonder if their data will be passed on to the Chinese company.
- Players would like to be asked whether they want to hand over their data to Epic Games.
- Players may have to come up with new names. Founders are even affected.
Players of Dauntless are currently expressing their discontent over the developers’ decision. On Reddit, they are demanding refunds, and many are threatening to quit the game. There is confusion over this step taken by the developers. The tone, even over Discord, is becoming increasingly harsh. There have even been bans of upset players.
With this reaction, Phoenix Labs apparently did not expect. The team is attempting to manage the damage on Reddit, but with little success.
