Eleventh Hour Games Upholds Commitment to Free Expansion Amid Krafton’s AI Shift
In a landscape increasingly dominated by corporate shifts towards artificial intelligence, Eleventh Hour Games (EHG) stands as a beacon of consistency within the Krafton family. Following Krafton’s recent pivot to an “AI-first company,” EHG has reassured its community that the upcoming Orobyss expansion for Last Epoch will remain free for existing players, a promise rooted in its indie origins.
After years of commitment to a free model, EHG has confirmed that all players who own the base game will receive the Orobyss expansion at no additional cost. New players purchasing the game post-launch will also find the expansion included in their purchase. This decision reflects EHG’s dedication to its player base, particularly in light of the challenges faced during the game’s initial seasons, which have not yet proven profitable.
While there were whispers of a potential charge for the expansion, EHG’s leadership has chosen to honor the pledge made during the game’s Kickstarter campaign in 2018. This commitment resonates strongly with players who value transparency and integrity in the gaming industry.
As anticipation builds for the Orobyss release next year, EHG is also preparing for two forthcoming seasons that promise substantial updates to the base game. However, studio head Cobler has acknowledged that the intervals between these seasons may extend longer than desired due to ongoing recruitment efforts and preparations for the game’s debut on PlayStation 5.
Addressing concerns about Krafton’s overarching strategy, Cobler has firmly stated, “To be clear, our development approach is not changing. We remain focused on building Last Epoch the same way we always have, with the same hands-on design philosophy.” This reassurance is particularly welcome in a time when many are wary of the potential impacts of Krafton’s AI ambitions on its subsidiary studios.
As the gaming community watches closely, EHG’s steadfast approach serves as a reminder that amidst corporate transformations, there remains a space for creativity and player-centric values. The commitment to free content and a hands-on development philosophy positions Last Epoch as a title that continues to prioritize its players, even as the industry evolves around it.
