It has been a long time coming for Ubisoft's new IP, "For Honor," which launches next year. The game will require a constant internet connection even for its single-player campaign but in consolation for this the developers have confirmed that all DLC modes and maps are going to be free.
"We don't want to split the community," director Damien Kieken told Game Rant. "Everything that's matchmade including new modes and new maps, will be given for free to the players. We'll also have other free content. We are a big team supporting the game after launch."
However, while all maps and modes are going to be released as free content Kieken did point out future heroes may not. This will resemble the same strategy Ubisoft did for a previous title, "Rainbow Six: Siege" in which all the maps were free but players were required to purchase the DLC or Season Pass to gain access to new characters.
It is further stated that there will be microtransactions in the game. Kieken explained that players will be able to use real-world money to buy Steel, the in-game currency. This will reflect the same microtransactions setup seen in many other AAA games, particular shooter games.
Despite this, all of the items that Steel can buy can be unlocked by simply playing the game, thus ensuring players that spend cash won't have a large advantage over those who don't. Kieken also stated that content was unlocked based on progression, guaranteeing that end-game items can't be accessed immediately even with the sufficient amount of Steel.
In an interview with Dual Shockers, creative director Jason VandenBerghe explained that this structure of balance will also reflect in how the single-player and multiplayer campaigns interact with each other. He did confirm multiplayer was designed first and then imported the work they did for the solo campaign.
He further explained that the single-player campaign took place in the past while the multiplayer was set in the present day. During these periods the Vikings had left their home and the Knights took over the land, causing the two factions to go at war. The Samurai have arrived seeking refuge.
"For Honor" releases for the PS4, Xbox One and PC on Feb. 14, 2017.