Moin Khot
Dec, 04.2023
Apex Legends enthusiasts recently probed Respawn developers about potential engine upgrades, reminiscent of Counter-Strike 2's shift to Source 2. The response from Respawn, unveiled during a Reddit AMA, dashes hopes for a radical transformation any time soon.
The developers asserted that a complete overhaul of Apex Legends' existing engine would demand substantial resources, diverting crucial manpower from the ongoing support for the live game. The logistical challenge renders the prospect of a sweeping gameplay alteration currently unfeasible, jeopardizing the timely delivery of seasonal changes and patches.
While this revelation might disappoint some fans, it doesn't entirely extinguish the possibility. The Respawn team, committed to maintaining Apex Legends for two decades, hinted that an engine change could materialize down the line. This deliberate, strategic approach underscores the studio's long-term vision for the game.
Questions lingered among players about Respawn possibly mirroring CS2's trajectory, particularly its pivotal shift to Source 2. The November AMA response from Respawn did little to dispel suspicions; instead, it ignited further speculation. Although a complete engine overhaul is off the table, players remain optimistic about potential targeted upgrades in specific facets of the game.
The debate over whether such an upgrade would guarantee success in Apex Legends is nuanced. Examining CS:GO's experience with the Source 2 update reveals an initial surge in player count, peaking at almost 300,000 within a few months. However, subsequent drops suggest a cautionary tale. CS2's player base dwindled post-peak, attributed to poorly received updates and changes.
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This narrative serves as a blueprint for Respawn, offering insights into the strategic release of a massive engine update. The Source 2 update granted Valve unparalleled flexibility, unshackling them from prior limitations. Respawn faces the decision of when, not if, to propel Apex Legends into a new era, learning from CS2's triumphs and tribulations.