2D Pokémon-Like MMORPG Duel Revolution Launches On Steam To Pay-To-Win Complaints

Not every Pokémon-like game is destined to be legendary as is the case for indie free-to-play MMORPG Duel Revolution. It’s not because the game is really bad (although it could definitely benefit from a boatload of bug fixes and balance tweaks), but because of its extremely pay-to-win microtransactions.

The 2D critter-collecting MMO launched into full release last Friday to “Mostly Negative” reviews on Steam, with most complaints aimed at “predatory” microtransactions that allow players to purchase better “Poké Balls” from the cash shop. That in itself probably wouldn’t have triggered a backlash, if not for the game’s extremely low monster catching rates.

Players also noted low XP rates, buggy gameplay, game crashes, and an unbalanced early game where you’ll often get stuck in combat for ages because buffs and debuffs essentially reduce your and your opponent’s damage to zero. Combat apparently balances out as you progress further into the game, but only a handful of players were willing to stick around.

In response to the negative reviews, developer Game Matter promptly rolled out a hotfix that slightly improved catch rates and lowered Evo Ball (?) prices, although it looks it was too little too late. Cranking up the catch rates might help to bring in the crowd though, especially with the lack of classic Pokémon-like MMORPGs in the market.