For over a decade, fans of the co-op heist shooter genre have found their home in the Payday series. While the first two Payday games may not have won over all critics, they carved out their own niche. Payday 2, in particular, gained a dedicated fan base since its 2013 release. Now, a decade later, Starbreeze Studios and Deep Silver have unveiled Payday 3. However, this long-awaited follow-up hasn’t arrived without its share of challenges and controversies during its early access launch.
Cross-Play and Cross-Progression: A Modern Convenience
Payday 3 enters the gaming arena with a commendable feature: cross-play and cross-progression right from the start. This allows players to enjoy the game across various platforms seamlessly. However, while this feature is a step in the right direction, it does come with some initial hiccups.
The Rocky Road to Playing Payday 3
One of the early challenges players face is the cumbersome account setup process. To dive into the world of Payday 3, players must create a Nebula account and link it to their gaming profile. Unfortunately, this process has proven to be less than smooth, with some users encountering login credential issues. For some, this hurdle proved insurmountable, preventing them from experiencing the game.
Tutorial Troubles and Missed Opportunities
As players venture into the game, they are greeted by tutorials meant to acquaint them with its mechanics. However, these tutorials fall short, failing to provide comprehensive guidance. Key mechanics necessary for successful stealthy heists are often left unexplained, leaving players to figure things out on their own.
Eight Distinct Heists and Freedom of Choice
Payday 3 introduces eight distinct heists, each offering a unique setting and experience. Players are granted the freedom to tackle these missions in any order they prefer. The choice is theirs: go in guns blazing or opt for a more stealthy approach. While the shootouts can be exhilarating, they are hampered by awkward movement, shooting mechanics, and lackluster enemy AI.
Matchmaking Woes and AI Companions
One of the game’s glaring issues lies in its matchmaking system. Finding real players to join your heist can be an arduous task due to the absence of a quick play option or server browser. This often leaves players partnered with AI companions, which, while deadly, are limited in their capabilities.
A Glimpse of Payday 3’s Potential
Despite its rocky start, Payday 3 has some redeeming qualities. The heists, though fewer than in Payday 2, are diverse and feature highly detailed maps with impressive destructibility. Completing heists rewards players with money, which can be spent on weapons and cosmetics, offering ample customization options.
A Look to the Future
The future of Payday 3 holds promise, with plans for additional content, including new heists and unlockables. Updates are expected to address matchmaking issues and graphical glitches, promising a smoother gameplay experience. With time, Payday 3 may evolve to surpass its predecessor.
Exploring Payday 3 Through Xbox Game Pass
For those curious about Payday 3, considering trying it through Xbox Game Pass might be a wise move before committing to a full-price purchase. While the game has a long road ahead in terms of improvement, its potential to shine brightly in the co-op heist genre is undeniably present. As updates roll in and the game matures, Payday 3 may just become the ultimate heist experience fans have been waiting for.
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