PlayStation’s forthcoming first-person shooter (FPS) Concord is set to stand out from the crowd by not including a battle pass, a common feature in many modern online shooters. Developer Firewalk Studios has made it clear through their FAQ on Twitter that their goal is to deliver a complete and rewarding gaming experience from day one.
They emphasize that players will be able to earn meaningful rewards simply by playing the game, leveling up their accounts and characters, and completing in-game tasks.
Firewalk Studios further clarified that while there will be post-release content and seasonal updates, these will be provided at no additional cost to the players. This approach is intended to maintain a focus on delivering a fully realized experience at launch, rather than segmenting content behind a paywall.
The studio plans to reveal more details about its post-launch roadmap soon, indicating ongoing support and content updates without the need for a battle pass.
Mark DeRidder, Concord’s gameplay animation director, reinforced the message by stating explicitly that the game will not feature a battle pass. His comments, “No Battle Pass, folks. You own Concord, Concord doesn’t own you,” suggest a player-first philosophy, aiming to deliver a complete game experience without the pressure of additional monetary commitments.
The game’s release, set for August 23 on PS5 and PC, comes with cautious optimism from those who have tried it. Early feedback from an open beta test has been generally favorable, describing Concord as a “really fun arena shooter” with engaging gameplay. The beta has been noted for its distinct characters and dynamic combat, offering players a compelling experience even if it doesn’t radically change the genre.
The reaction from the community and industry professionals has been positive, with some praising the game for its refreshing approach. Overwatch senior animator Kyle Disanjh called it a “great surprise,” noting its distinctive characters and fast-paced combat.
As players look forward to its full release, Concord seems poised to appeal to FPS enthusiasts who have grown weary of battle passes and incomplete launches in the genre.
