Respawn Entertainment’s upcoming changes to Apex Legends’ Battle Pass system for Season 22 aim to revamp the player experience, but not without controversy. Traditionally, each season featured a single Battle Pass with 110 levels, purchasable with Apex Coins earned in-game or bought with real money.
Starting with Season 22, this structure shifts to two 60-level Battle Passes per season, each priced at $9.99. A new Premium+ option replaces the old Premium Bundle at $19.99 per half-season, promising enhanced rewards.
The decision to move away from Apex Coins is justified by Respawn as a means to lower the cost of entry for Premium+ and streamline the purchasing process. They argue these changes will make the Battle Pass more accessible and worthwhile, citing improvements such as increased Crafting Materials and additional Legendary/Epic Apex Packs throughout the season.
These adjustments are part of an effort to double the overall value of Battle Pass rewards, aligning with community feedback for more meaningful progression.
However, the community’s response has been overwhelmingly negative. Critics on platforms like Reddit and Twitter have condemned the move as a cash grab, labeling it an unpopular decision that prioritizes monetization over player satisfaction.
The backlash highlights concerns about fairness, perceived value, and the impact on player enjoyment. With thousands of comments and a vocal outcry, players question whether Respawn and EA will reconsider their strategy in response to community sentiment.
To mitigate initial resistance and entice players to try the new system, Respawn plans to offer the first half-season Battle Pass of Season 22 for free to those who complete specific in-game challenges within the launch period.
This move is seen as a gesture to encourage engagement while introducing players to the revised Battle Pass structure. As Season 21 continues with its current Battle Pass model, the upcoming changes promise a pivotal shift in how players engage with Apex Legends’ seasonal content.
While Respawn aims to make the Battle Pass more affordable and rewarding, the transition has sparked significant backlash within the community. The future of Apex Legends’ Battle Pass system hinges on whether these changes will resonate positively with players or if further adjustments will be necessary to regain community trust and support.
