Pedigree means a lot, even if a developer is rolling out its first game. This is why expectations are high for Hellgate: London. Its creator is Flagship Studios, whose core is composed of ex-Blizzard employees who were responsible for the development of Diablo, Diablo 2, Warcraft, Starcraft, and World of Warcraft.

The game is heralded as the spiritual successor of Diablo and you’ll notice that once you start playing. Specifically, Hellgate feels like Diablo brought into 3D, with a few modifications. Gone is the point-and-click movement scheme, replaced by the familiar WASD prevalent in shooters.

So you’re the world’s only hope to rid all demons. Does that make you a chick magnet? Perhaps. Adulation from the masses? Check. Free armor? Fat chance. You’ve been in this situation before when you played Diablo, Ultima, or some other similar game. You’re the savior and fans love you. But when it comes to your gear, you have to cough up the cash.

Tricia Gray, the director for global marketing at Flagship Studios was kind enough to explain in a podcast at Gamerscore why Hellgate: London is charging you for your armor even if you’re out to save humanity.
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