Earlier today we reported that Australian DC Universe Online users were experiencing a price disparity between the US and Australia. While most MMOs simply charge users the US amount, based on the current exchange rate, DC Universe Online has been charging its users a flat rate – of $19.95 per month. Meaning that, based on today’s exchange rates, Australians were being charged an $4-5 a month extra to play on the same servers.
We asked Sony to respond, and they’ve just gotten back to us with a response, which you can read below.
DC Universe Online product went on sale in Australia and New Zealand yesterday. DC Universe Online is an online multiplayer game and requires a valid subscription to play. A 30 day subscription is included in the purchase of the game. Additional recurring fees automatically apply thereafter, and an internet connection is also required.
On the front of the DC Universe retail pack made available to consumers in Australia and New Zealand it is stated that on the console version “Recurring subscription charges apply automatically thereafter” and on the PC version “Additional subscription fees apply” and also that “Internet connection required”.
Additional information in regard to the Australian Dollar pricing schedule was also made available to retailers to help assist with any consumer inquiries at the point of purchase in regard to ongoing subscription prices in Australia.
After receiving feedback today from our community today, we are also in the process of requesting an update to the global game website to reflect Australia and New Zealand currencies and apologise for any inconvenience.
The major issue for most users was the lack of information regarding the extra cost – most consumers bought the game expecting to pay $15US per month, and were surprised to find they had to pay extra to play. It looks like Sony are attempting to remedy that situation, by making sure customers are aware of the cost, but time will tell if they make any changes to the subscription fees.
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