In a surprising turn of events, Rocket Arena, a beloved multiplayer title included in Xbox Game Pass Ultimate and EA Play, is set to make an unexpected exit from the subscription service shortly. The departure is speculated to be influenced by a declining player base since its initial release in 2020.
The Unexpected Departure
Rocket Arena, the 3v3 multiplayer shooter developed by Electronic Arts, has been a staple in the gaming community since its launch in 2020 on PC and various gaming platforms. Despite initially performing well and receiving positive reviews, the game's player base has experienced a noticeable decline, prompting its removal from both Xbox Game Pass Ultimate and EA Play.
While it's not uncommon for games to leave Xbox Game Pass due to the service's rotational nature, the surprising aspect is the removal of older titles like Rocket Arena, which typically continue to be available for regular subscribers on other services, such as EA Play.
The Countdown Begins
TrueAchievements reported that Rocket Arena is scheduled to bid farewell to both Xbox Game Pass Ultimate and EA Play on November 14, 2023. The lack of an official statement regarding the reason behind the removal has led to speculation within the gaming community. Some users in the comments section suspect a potential server closure, especially given the absence of updates since the introduction of Season 4 in 2021.
High Hopes and Fierce Competition
Upon its release, Rocket Arena garnered high expectations from fans, with some envisioning it as the next great multiplayer shooter. Drawing comparisons to popular titles like Overwatch and Super Smash Bros., Rocket Arena faced challenges in establishing itself in an oversaturated genre dominated by games like Valorant and Overwatch 2.
The decline in player numbers, coupled with the absence of significant updates, has fueled speculation about the game's future. However, enthusiasts can take solace in the fact that despite its impending departure from subscription services, Rocket Arena will remain available for purchase.
A Farewell But Not Goodbye
While bidding farewell to Xbox Game Pass Ultimate and EA Play, Rocket Arena will still be accessible for those who wish to continue their journey in the game. With achievable achievements that reportedly require 60 to 80 hours of playtime, players can pursue their in-game goals even after the departure from the subscription services.
As rumors circulate about a potential server closure, fans are left hoping that Rocket Arena will continue to be enjoyed at their leisure. The unexpected exit of this once-prominent multiplayer title serves as a reminder of the ever-evolving nature of gaming services and the competitive landscape that shapes the fate of titles within the industry.
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