Ubisoft's The Division Resurgence PC Port Receives Mixed Steam Reviews

What Happened

Ubisoft's free-to-play mobile game, The Division Resurgence, launched on Steam on August 5, following its release on iOS and Android in March. The PC version was previously available in early access on Ubisoft Connect. Despite being announced in June, the Steam release lacked significant fanfare. Upon arrival on the Steam platform, the game received a 'Mixed' user review rating, with a substantial number of players expressing confusion and dissatisfaction.

Why It Matters

Criticism from players centers on the game feeling like a direct port of a mobile title, with an interface and gameplay mechanics that do not translate well to PC. Specific complaints include a cluttered UI, prevalent microtransactions, and a progression system that players perceive as 'pay-to-win.' Some reviews suggest that the game's design, including loot being locked behind daily completions and scaled-down rewards, detracts from the experience. The game's peak concurrent player count on Steam has been notably low, with one review suggesting that players might be better off purchasing the original The Division 1, which was recently on sale for under $3.

Background

The Division Resurgence was initially announced in 2022 with an expected 2024 release. Its development has occurred alongside continued support for the mainline title, The Division 2, which launched in 2019 and recently broke its all-time concurrent player record on Steam. Ubisoft also announced The Division 3 in 2023 but has provided limited updates. The franchise's creative director, Julian Gerighty, departed Ubisoft earlier this year, though the company stated that development for its Division titles remains on track.

Key Facts

• The Division Resurgence, a free-to-play mobile spin-off, launched on Steam on August 5.
• The game had previously been available on iOS and Android since March 31.
• As of the reporting, The Division Resurgence holds a 'Mixed' rating on Steam, with approximately 45 percent of user reviews being positive.
• Player reviews frequently cite issues with the game's mobile-centric UI, microtransactions, and perceived pay-to-win mechanics.
• The game peaked at 4,117 concurrent players on Steam at launch.
• The Division Resurgence was initially announced in 2022.
• Ubisoft also announced The Division 3 in 2023.