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Introduction
Diablo 4 recently launched in early access and has received overwhelmingly positive reviews from critics. However, user reviews have been negative due to several pain points, including issues with the inventory and stash tabs, lack of a loadout system, and controversies surrounding the microtransaction shop. One of the most peculiar additions to the microtransaction shop includes cosmetic skins for Headstones, which raises concerns and controversies alike.
The Weirdest Microtransaction in Diablo 4 – The Headstone Cosmetics
Headstone skins are sold in $10 bundles that include back accessories and an emote. Headstones are only visible on death, making the cosmetic item almost useless for most players, especially those playing Diablo 4‘s Hardcore mode which only appears once if its character is killed permanently.
The downside of the game’s Headstone skins is that its cosmetic only becomes visible after the player in-game character dies. Considering that endgame activities like Diablo 4’s Nightmare Dungeons have a revive count, death can interrupt the purpose of the game or make players fail to complete a given run resulting in no rewards. Furthermore, the price tags on Headstones and their sale in $8-10 bundles do not give much value to the overall game’s cosmetic options. Headstones’ inclusion in the microtransaction shop proves that the studio has not learned their lessons from past issues with microtransactions.
Are Cosmetic Headstones Even Necessary?
One of the biggest reasons why Headstones are an uncertain addition to the in-game shop is that they have no apparent value or meaning to the game’s narrative or player’s progression. Unlike accessories, armor sets, or mounts, Headstones barely affect the game’s overall appearance, feel, or the player’s immersion, making them a less than ideal cosmetic item. Blizzard must have scrapped cosmetic Headstones or, at the very least, included it for free to make up for their lack of value to the player.
The Transmog System and Microtransactions
Diablo 4’s transmog system featuring unlockable items is free, but players can only access microtransactions using real money. This is opposed to other games like Destiny 2, which gives players the option to use real currency or in-game currency on their armor sets and transmog system. Headstones, emotes, and accessories that include in the game should be free-to-play currency options. Blizzard must have learned that it is challenging to create different monetization solutions and hence must provide a free-to-play option for items that have no significant impact on the game’s overall narrative.
Conclusion
Diablo 4’s microtransaction options have caused controversies since their addition to the game. Headstone cosmetics, in particular, have contributed to the negativity from users who are unhappy with the game’s in-game shop’s pricing policy. It is evident that Blizzard has not learned from its past issues with microtransactions, considering the current state of Diablo 4. However, overall, the game’s cosmetic purchase options are not comparable to the controversies surrounding Diablo Immortal.
FAQs
What is Diablo 4?
Developed and published by Blizzard Entertainment, Diablo 4 is an action role-playing game and the fourth installment in the Diablo franchise.
Why are users unhappy with Diablo 4’s in-game shop’s pricing policy?
Users have negative reviews regarding the state of the game at launch, and the in-game shop’s pricing policy has received criticism. The armor sets, mount armor, and cosmetic items’ prices are currently a controversial topic amongst users.
What are the pain points highlighted by the community in Diablo 4?
The community has pointed out several pain points in Diablo 4 like, lackluster inventory, lack of a loadout system, and the microtransaction shop’s pricing policy.
What are the cosmetic skins for Headstones in Diablo 4?
Cosmetic skins are a unique addition to Diablo 4’s in-game shop designed to change the character’s headstone’s appearance, animation, or aesthetic.
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