So I’m not sure how I feel about the whole live service multiplayer model that is currently all the rage. In my mind live service games come with a number of downsides, especially regarding their reliance on cosmetic based microtransactions and seasonal battle passes.
Fear of Missing Out Manipulation: Live service games thrive on limited time offers, exclusive skins, and seasonal battle passes. If you don’t buy or grind for a skin or weapon during a specific season, it might never return. This pressures players into constantly spending money or time to avoid missing out on content.
Predatory Monetization: These style of games aggressively push cosmetics through their item shops and battle pass systems. Many skins and cosmetics are overpriced.
The Never Ending Grind: Each season introduces a new battle pass, which means players must keep grinding XP to unlock rewards before they expire. This creates a cycle where the game stops being fun and starts feeling like a chore.
Shift Away from Gameplay Focus: Live service models often prioritize cosmetic content over meaningful gameplay updates. Instead of adding significant new mechanics, many updates focus on new skins, emotes, or collaborations (like Marvel, Star Wars, etc.) that drive sales rather than improving the core game.
Critical Mess 
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