User reviews consistently mention imagine slaying monsters and unraveling mysteries without the looming threat of microtransactions or constant online connectivity. Xbox’s upcoming title, Towerborne, redefines itself as a premium game, officially releasing on February 26, 2026.

After months in early access and extensive community feedback, developer Stoic is moving away from its original free-to-play model in favor of a fully paid experience-priced at $24.99 for the standard edition and $29.99 for the deluxe edition. This shift reflects a significant trend in gaming, catering to players who seek rich, offline gameplay rather than a perpetual grind for profits. In an industry saturated with live-service models that demand ongoing investment, Towerborne aims to reclaim the pure joy of gaming.

The New Face of Gaming: Transitioning to Paid Models

The transition from a free-to-play to a paid game isn’t merely a business decision; it’s a direct response to player desires. Stoic’s president, Trisha Stouffer, emphasized this shift, noting the necessity for a complete gaming experience without the constraints often imposed by live-service systems. Players expressed a strong desire during early access for polished gameplay, free from money-grabbing practices and pay-to-win elements.

What You Get: Features and Gameplay

This transition reflects a broader trend among game developers who are increasingly aware of the fatigue surrounding microtransactions and relentless online connectivity. Towerborne seeks to resonate with casual gamers and adventure enthusiasts alike by providing a more straightforward and immersive experience.

Setup and Accessibility: Getting Started

Towerborne promises a fully developed narrative supported by a new roster of bosses and refined gameplay mechanics. Players can look forward to co-op gameplay options and the opportunity to earn in-game cosmetics without spending real money-a refreshing departure from standard practices. With cosmetic purchases entirely optional, players can focus on improving their skills and enjoying the game at their own pace.

The emphasis on a rich single-player campaign allows for immersive storytelling, enveloping players in a captivating world as they embark on their adventures. With offline play as a core feature, gamers can dive headfirst into the action without needing an internet connection.

Setup and Accessibility: Getting Started

For those eager to start their journey, the setup process is simple. Just purchase and download the game on your preferred platform-be it Xbox Series X/S, Steam, Game Pass, or PS5-and you're ready to go. There will be no online verification processes or constant updates to interrupt your gameplay. However, potential buyers should consider their storage space, as specific requirements have not been detailed, so a quick check is advised before making a purchase.

Constraints and tradeoffs

• Requires upfront payment with no free-to-play option

• No ongoing monetization mechanics mean less revenue for developers which might limit future updates

Verdict

Buy if you’re looking for a complete, engaging experience without online hassles-skip if you prefer free-to-play models with endless upgrades.

Since it's a fully paid game from the outset, players gain immediate access to all features, unlike many competitors that may restrict access behind paywalls or expansions.

Key numbers

• 99, w (mentioned in Xbox’s Towerborne is switching from a free-to-play game to a paid one)

• 5G (mentioned in The best Apple Watch to buy)