Payday 3 Will Require an Online Connection for Solo and Multiplayer Gameplay
The highly anticipated game Payday 3 has recently made headlines with the confirmation that it will require an online connection to play, even in solo mode. Starbreeze Global Brand Director, Almir Listo, revealed this information during a live session, explaining that regardless of the chosen mode, the game will need a continuous internet connection for gameplay. This decision is driven by the fact that the game is built on the Unreal Engine and offers cross-progression and cross-play functionality.
The Benefits of Cross-Play and Cross-Progression
Cross-play is a feature that enables players to join multiplayer sessions with others who are using different platforms, such as consoles or PCs. This means that console players can play with their counterparts on PCs, breaking down the barriers between platforms. Additionally, cross-progression allows players to continue their progress seamlessly across different platforms. For example, a player can start a game on one platform and then pick up where they left off on another.
Limitations of Online Dependency
While the inclusion of cross-play and cross-progression features may enhance the gaming experience, it comes with certain limitations. The requirement for a constant internet connection means that the availability of the game will be entirely dependent on the duration of software support. If the servers are shut down, it will be impossible to play Payday 3. Furthermore, physical copies of the game would become useless in the event of a server shutdown.
This debate surrounding online connectivity in video games is not new. A similar discussion took place over a decade ago with the release of Diablo III, and more recently with Diablo IV. With a mandatory online connection, players may face server slowdowns even when playing solo. This can have severe consequences, especially in modes where character death results in permanent loss. A server problem could cause a player’s character to perish, leaving them frustrated and potentially compromising their progress.
What to Expect from Payday 3
Payday 3, developed by the Swedish studio Overkill Software, will stay true to its predecessors as a 4-player cooperative heist game. Players will have the choice to approach missions stealthily or tackle them head-on. The game is scheduled for release on September 21, 2023, and will be available on PC, PS5, and Xbox Series X/S.
While the inclusion of an online connection requirement may be met with mixed opinions from players, it is clear that Payday 3 aims to embrace the evolving landscape of online gaming by incorporating cross-play and cross-progression features. This decision may come with certain limitations but ultimately seeks to enhance the multiplayer experience and provide players with more options for enjoying the game.