Microtransactions Return to Star Wars Battlefront II

The time is finally here, when microtransactions are reimplemented into EA's Star Wars Battlefront II. Real-money purchases will be arriving to the space shooter on April 18, where players can purchase the premium currency crystals they can use to acquire cosmetic items.

Specifically, crystals can be used to purchase items called "appearances," which are in-game skins for the playable characters. EA states that over 50 appearances will be available, including the Endor outfits for Han Solo and Leia Organa. The publisher was also clear to mention that appearances can also be purchased with credits, the currency earned through in-game activity.

When Star Wars Battlefront II launched on November 17 of last year, it had crystals available for real-money purchasing. The monetary method was quickly removed after extreme player backlash over their implementation.

Oskar Gabrielson, general manager at game developer DICE remarked on the decision in November.

Weve heard the concerns about potentially giving players unfair advantages. And weve heard that this is overshadowing an otherwise great game. This was never our intention. Sorry we didnt get this right.

We hear you loud and clear, so were turning off all in-game purchases. We will now spend more time listening, adjusting, balancing and tuning. This means that the option to purchase crystals in the game is now offline, and all progression will be earned through gameplay.

Gabrielson said that the crystals would eventually return, but was unsure how or when. Back then, it was used to purchase gear improving items and equipment, now it can only be used on non-gameplay altering cosmetics.

This update also comes with a new game mode, Ewok Hunt.