Desert Strait: Operation Online Goes Free-to-Play with Prime Perks

Independent studio BeyterGames has announced that Desert Strait: Operation Online has shifted to a free-to-play distribution model, making the military shooter available for anyone to download and play at no cost with no time limits. Previously sold for 199 rubles, the game has transitioned to unlimited access for new and returning players alike, marking a significant change in how the title is experienced on PC. The move aligns with a broader trend in the industry where developers expand reach by removing upfront costs, inviting a wider audience to engage with the game’s mechanics, maps, and progression systems. This update comes as part of BeyterGames efforts to refresh player interest and extend the game’s lifecycle for a global audience. The shift to free-to-play is paired with a Prime status option that was introduced to provide enhanced features while also rewarding players who purchased the game before the change. Under the Prime umbrella, players gain access to Steam Inventory and dedicated lobbies that are populated by others with Prime status, creating a distinct social space within the community. BeyterGames stated that anyone who previously bought the game will receive Prime status at no extra charge, a measure designed to honor existing customers while inviting new players to explore the enhanced multiplayer experience. The Studio’s announcement positions Desert Strait: Operation Online as a team-based first-person shooter set in a rugged mountain strait, where tactical coordination and rapid decision making shape the outcome of each match. The core objective in multiplayer battles centers on capturing the enemy’s control point, demanding swift communication and strategic positioning from all squad members. The game features four distinct soldier classes — Shooter, Medic, Heavy, and Sniper — each offering unique abilities and playstyles to suit evolving battlefield needs. In addition to class variety, players encounter isolated weather conditions that affect visibility and combat dynamics, adding a layer of unpredictability to engagements. As players participate in battles, they earn experience points that unlock new weapon types and customization options, enriching the sense of progression and achievement as they advance through matches and adapt to changing tactical requirements. While the title has generated a predominantly negative reception in the community at the time of writing, the ongoing updates and free-to-play access aim to address feedback and improve the overall experience for long-time fans and newcomers alike. The shift in business model signals BeyterGames intent to sustain a growing player base through ongoing updates, balance tweaks, and additional content. Players who want to try Desert Strait: Operation Online can add the game to their Steam library directly, enjoying the free entry and the Prime-enabled social features that accompany it. Those looking for updates, discounts, and freebies may follow relevant communities and channels that curate this kind of information. Screenshots from the game are readily accessible to help prospective players gauge the visual and design direction before diving into competitive play. For context, the PC hardware market has recently seen a notable milestone in Russia with the confirmed sales of high-end GPUs, illustrating continued interest in gaming technologies alongside new releases like Desert Strait: Operation Online. This broader landscape underscores how free-to-play titles and optimized hardware ecosystems contribute to the evolving digital gaming space. Technical and community developments continue to shape the ongoing reception and engagement around the title. (VG Times)