Towerborne: transition to a paid and offline game

TL;DR: Towerborne: transition to a paid and offline game

• Towerborne will shift from a free-to-play model to a paid one.
• The official release is scheduled for February 26.
• Two editions will be offered: standard and deluxe.
• The game will include an offline mode and an online co-op mode.
• All cosmetics can be obtained for free through gameplay.

Model change: from free to paid

Towerborne’s transition from a free-to-play model to a paid one marks a significant shift in the game’s development strategy. Originally conceived as a free title with ongoing monetization mechanics, the development team, Stoic, has decided to offer a more complete and accessible experience. According to Trisha Stouffer, CEO of Stoic, this change was driven by players’ desire to have a polished, complete game without the distractions of in-game purchases.

The decision to switch to a paid model is based on feedback received during the early access phase. Players expressed their desire to avoid the typical “grind” of live-service games and “pay-to-win” mechanics. With this new approach, players will be able to enjoy the full Towerborne experience from the very beginning, without needing to worry about future monetization.

This change also implies a deep restructuring of the game, which has required a year of work to adapt systems originally designed for constant connectivity. The result is a more robust, player-friendly game that promises a richer and more satisfying experience.

Release date and available editions

Towerborne will officially launch on February 26, 2026. This release will mark the game’s availability on multiple platforms, including Xbox Series X/S, PC, Game Pass, Steam, and PS5. Players will be able to choose between two editions:

Edition	Price	Content
Standard edition	$24.99	Full access to the base game.
Deluxe edition	$29.99	Includes the base game plus additional content such as cosmetic sets and crafting materials.

Standard edition

The standard edition of Towerborne will offer players full access to the base game. This includes the complete story, the combat system, and all gameplay mechanics without restrictions. Priced at $24.99, this edition is designed for those looking for a complete experience without extras.

Deluxe edition

On the other hand, the deluxe edition, which will cost $29.99, will include not only the base game, but also a series of exclusive cosmetics and crafting materials that will enrich the player experience. This edition is aimed at those who want to customize their experience and gain aesthetic advantages from the start.

Game features

Towerborne is presented as a 2D action RPG that combines elements of dynamic combat with a rich narrative. Players will take on the role of “Aces,” the defenders of humanity, in a world full of dangers and mysteries.

Online co-op mode

The game will allow players to team up online to face challenges together. The online co-op mode is designed to allow up to four players to join the same session, making team formation and joint strategy easier. This feature aims to encourage social interaction and teamwork, key elements in the Towerborne experience.

Offline mode

In addition to online mode, Towerborne will offer an offline mode, allowing players to enjoy the game without needing an internet connection. This option is especially appealing to those who prefer to play solo or who do not always have access to a stable connection. The ability to play offline also ensures that players can enjoy the story and the game’s content at any time.

Game restructuring

The transition to a paid model has led to a significant restructuring of Towerborne. This process has included reviewing systems and mechanics to adapt to the game’s new vision.

Statements from Stoic’s CEO

Trisha Stouffer has stated that the model change was driven by the need to offer a more complete and satisfying experience. “We want players to feel that they own the complete Towerborne experience, without the distractions of in-game purchases,” Stouffer said. This statement underscores the development team’s commitment to the player community and its desire to create a product that resonates with their expectations.

Impact on gameplay

The game’s restructuring has enabled an improvement in overall gameplay. Combat and progression systems have been adjusted to offer a smoother, more accessible experience. Players will be able to enjoy dynamic, exciting combat, with mechanics that encourage cooperation and team strategy.

Community feedback

The player community has played a crucial role in the evolution of Towerbo

rne. Through their comments and suggestions, the development team has been able to identify areas for improvement and adjust the game accordingly.

Players’ wishes

During the early access phase, players expressed their desire for a more complete game and one less focused on monetization. Many players longed for an experience that wasn’t defined by the need to spend additional money to enjoy the full content. This feedback has been fundamental to the decision to switch to a paid model.

Reaction to the model change

The initial reaction to the model change has been mostly positive. Players have enthusiastically embraced the idea of a game that offers a complete experience from the start. However, there has also been criticism from those who preferred the free model. Despite this, the focus on quality and accessibility has resonated with many in the community.

Content of the 1.0 launch

The 1.0 launch of Towerborne promises to deliver a rich and complete experience. This release will include a variety of new and improved content.

Complete story

The full story of Towerborne will unfold across various missions and encounters, allowing players to immerse themselves in the world of Eld. Players will explore the narrative of the “Aces” and their struggle to protect humanity from the dark forces that threaten its existence.

New bosses

The launch will also include new bosses, each with unique and challenging mechanics. These encounters are designed to test players’ skills and encourage cooperation in online mode.

Restructured difficulty system

The difficulty system has been restructured to offer a balanced challenge. Players will be able to adjust the difficulty according to their skill level and experience, ensuring everyone can enjoy the game at their own pace.

Cosmetics and monetization

Towerborne will also approach monetization differently under its new paid model. The intention is to offer an experience free of the typical in-game purchases that often frustrate players.

Acquiring free cosmetics

All cosmetics in Towerborne can be obtained for free through gameplay. This means players won’t have to spend additional money to customize their characters. This decision has been well received by the community, which values transparency and fairness in acquiring cosmetic content.

Removal of additional purchases

With the shift to a paid model, additional purchases have been eliminated. This means players will be able to enjoy all of the game’s content without worrying about extra expenses. This strategy aims to create a friendlier and more accessible environment for all players.

Towerborne’s transition: a shift toward the premium experience

Towerborne’s transition to a paid model represents a significant change in the way developers approach game creation. This change not only responds to the community’s demands, but also reflects a broader trend in the industry toward more complete and satisfying gaming experiences.

Reasons behind the model change

The model change was driven by the need to offer a more complete experience and one less centered on monetization. The developers have listened to the community and have adapted their approach to meet players’ expectations.

Impact on the player community

The transition has had a positive impact on the community, which has enthusiastically embraced the idea of a game that offers a complete experience from the start. However, there has also been criticism from those who preferred the free model.

Features of the new paid model

The new paid model promises to offer a richer and more satisfying experience, with a focus on quality and accessibility. Players will be able to enjoy all of the game’s content without worrying about additional expenses.

Expectations for the official launch

With the official launch scheduled for February 26, expectations are high. Players are eager to explore the world of Towerborne and experience everything the game has to offer.

Conclusions on Towerborne’s evolution

Towerborne’s evolution toward a paid model reflects a change in the way developers approach game creation. By focusing on quality and accessibility, Towerborne positions itself as an attractive title for those seeking a complete and satisfying gaming experience.