Wardogs will have no monetisation in Early Access

Bulkhead, the developer of Wardogs, has confirmed the game will launch on Steam Early Access on September 10 without any form of monetisation. The studio set out three Early Access commitments: no monetisation while Early Access is active; in-game cash and gold bars available only through gameplay; and cosmetic camouflage patterns not offered for purchase.

The only paid item during Early Access will be an optional supporter pack. That pack includes three starter weapon skins, a helicopter skin, two bobbleheads and a scoreboard tag. Bulkhead described the pack as a way for players to show support rather than a recurring revenue feature.

Bulkhead said it intends certain cosmetics to reflect player skill rather than being obtainable through spending. The developer emphasized that in-game currencies will be earned through play during Early Access, with the supporter pack the single exception to the earnings rule.

The studio also made clear that monetisation will arrive after Early Access. Bulkhead expects base game sales at the 1.0 launch to provide an initial revenue boost, but noted ongoing costs such as server hosting, anti-cheat measures, telemetry and continued development will require additional funding over time. The company added it is planning monetisation options years ahead so players can see how the game will be supported long term.

Bulkhead owns the Wardogs intellectual property outright, giving the studio control over future content and monetisation decisions. The developer referenced lessons from its earlier shooter, Battalion 1944, which faced low player numbers and was abandoned soon after launch; Bulkhead said that experience has informed its approach to Wardogs.

Pre-orders for Wardogs are available now and the Steam Early Access release is scheduled for September 10.