Apex Legends’ Launch Royale Highlights the Case for a New Limited-Time Mode

Almost six years have whisked by since “Apex Legends” burst onto the scene, and during that time, the game has been hard at work refining its formula. The changes it has undergone have been so gradual and effective that many of its fans might have forgotten what the original experience was like—until now, with the Launch Royale LTM. This mode took players on a nostalgic journey back to the days of season zero, albeit with a few modern tweaks, such as the inclusion of Octane and Wattson, as well as an updated UI. These elements ensured the gameplay was still smooth while giving players a taste of what the game used to be. Most of the content harkened back to those early days, showcasing the game’s journey over its inaugural year.

One thing becomes immediately apparent when you revisit the early days of “Apex Legends”: the pace was notably slower. What really sets this battle royale apart is how it ingeniously integrates momentum into its gameplay. Yes, you might be able to secure a win by hiding and waiting until the last possible moment, but engaging in battles and earning your spot in the final moments is where the real satisfaction lies. Observing the evolution of this momentum-focused gameplay made the Launch Royale quite the intriguing experience, though there’s room for this idea to expand.

Imagining a continuation, a ‘Yearly Royale’ could become a fascinating addition to “Apex Legends.” Although executing this concept might present some technical challenges, imagine a Limited-Time Mode (LTM) that rotates, perhaps every few hours or days, to highlight the game as it was at different stages—year one, year two, year three, and up to the current year. It would offer a captivating glimpse into how each major update has altered the game’s fabric over time. Take EVO shields, for instance; without looking it up, I couldn’t pinpoint whether they debuted in year two or not, and it would be insightful to experience each past year anew.

Nostalgia can be a double-edged sword—while it can cloud our memories, a Yearly Royale could slowly peel back those rose-tinted layers. Sure, the law of diminishing returns might apply once you’ve showcased the progression since day one, but it’s still compelling. Veteran players would have a chance to reminisce about when certain legends were introduced, effectively reliving a time capsule of “Apex Legends.” Meanwhile, newcomers could gain a comprehensive history lesson on this beloved battle royale.

That being said, there’s a good chance this grand concept might never materialize in its entirety—or at least, not in the envisioned format. Respawn, having crafted the Launch Royale, could opt for other approaches to showcase these experiences periodically. Offering a glimpse into year two next season might lack the impact of a comprehensive year-by-year showcase, yet even smaller doses serve to highlight the evolution of “Apex Legends” and the flow of content and characters that have steadily enriched its world.