Starbreeze Entertainment announces a much-anticipated Offline Mode for Payday 3, arriving later this month. However, this addition comes with a significant caveat: an active internet connection is still required. This follows considerable player backlash after the game's launch omitted offline play.
Since its debut in 2011 with Payday: The Heist, the Payday franchise has redefined the FPS genre, emphasizing cooperative gameplay across high-stakes robberies. The series is renowned for its intricate stealth mechanics and diverse weaponry, offering players varied mission approaches. Payday 3 significantly enhanced stealth capabilities, providing even greater strategic freedom. The upcoming "Boys in Blue" update on June 27th introduces a new heist and the highly requested Offline Mode.
This new Offline Mode, initially launching in beta, aims to improve the solo experience. While it eliminates the need for matchmaking queues, it frustratingly necessitates an online connection. Future updates will eventually enable full offline play, but for now, server connectivity remains mandatory. This addresses a key complaint among players, along with other criticisms regarding the omission of features like The Safehouse.
The June 27th update includes more than just the beta Offline Mode. A new heist, free in-game items, and various improvements are also part of the package. A new LMG and three masks expand the game's arsenal, and players can finally customize and name their loadouts.
Payday 3's launch was marred by server issues and limited content (only eight heists initially). Starbreeze CEO Tobias Sjögren apologized for these shortcomings, and subsequent updates have addressed some concerns. However, future content expansions, like the "Syntax Error" heist, will be paid DLC, costing $10. The developers are committed to improving the solo experience, with further enhancements planned for the Offline Mode post-beta.
