Continuation: The authors of NFS Unbound apologized for the rude behavior of a staff member who targeted a fan and drew criticism from Twitter users. The controversy centered on how the leading Need for Speed account interacted with a disappointed follower of the series, an exchange that grew increasingly toxic over time.
The clash occurred shortly after a fresh post mentioning three minutes of in-game time in Need for Speed Unbound. An EA spokesperson promoted the Palace Edition as early access, a move that user @KyloZen0 questioned. What follows is a sanitized rendering of the exchange:
Need for Speed: You asked and we heard you. Pre-order Need for Speed Unbound: Palace Edition today and get 3 days early access.
Kylo: Wait, what did we ask for and what exactly did you hear? Pay more to access 3 days early?
Need for Speed: Gameplay video…? 3 days early access has always been there. Reading is important.
Kylo: Oh yeah, charging loyal fans extra to play 3 days early. It’s not very cool and a bit exploitative. Customer service is what matters.
Need for Speed: Milkshake instead of brain.
Kylo: Milkshake instead of company.
Need for Speed: Cry or buy at regular price, mate.
Kylo: I was going to buy your game on release day, but you lost a customer because of the mismanagement of this account. Well done, keep it up to be popular with younger players. It’s awkward and unprofessional.
Need for Speed: I’m not going to read all of this. Condolences or congratulations.
Many readers expressed outrage at the manager’s attitude toward the public. A number of users urged the manager to consider a different role within the company.
“The whole point of EA Support,” — @Infernothefox.
“Wow. The customer complains, that’s disrespectful. I’ll probably skip this Need for Speed,” — @senseicuso.
“How to lose your job in 4 tweets,” — @pcrafton4.
“In general, don’t buy at regular price, just wait,” — @FuckinAwful.
“Business accounts can push people toward copying their products – thanks for the service,” — @Complete_Tosser.
Need for Speed Unbound releases on December 2 for PC, Xbox Series X|S, and PS5.
All Need for Speed Unbound screenshots are available for viewing.
Publisher Stray Trolls expresses dissatisfaction with the game’s participation in the Game of the Year category