Redwood Studios Mocks Lootbox Controversy In C&C Rivals APK

What you see in the screenshot above is the assets\published\layouts\layouts.sb file from the Command & Conquer: Rivals APK file (APK is the standard application package format for Android, for those who don’t know). You’re more than welcome to look at that file if you don’t believe what we’re about to unveil.

“Hidden” between part-encrypted and part-plaintext data are some strings. Strings that read “Get ready for the biggest sense of pride and accomplishment yet! Lootbox with your friends! Lootbox with your friends’ lootboxes! Lootboxes everywhere!!”. This is a direct mockery of the public reaction to EA‘s lootbox-favouring practices, and a direct reference to the infamous “sense of pride and accomplishment” statement from the most downvoted Reddit post in history, made of course by a DICE developer late last year.

I am afraid that I must say that I’ve received private messages with reports about this as early as the first pre-alpha release from 9 June 2018. It’s really sad how AAA publishers see their consumers, and how they act like they can do anything without consequence.