'Star Citizen' solo game will cost you extra after February 14th

Right now, pre-ordering Star Citizen gets you both the open, massively multiplayer namesake game and Squadron 42, its recently established single-player counterpart. However, it won't be that good a deal before long. Weeks after announcing the separation of the two games, Cloud Imperium has revealed that Star Citizen and Squadron 42 will officially require separate purchases on February 14th -- yes, they're splitting up on Valentine's Day. From then on, you'll have to buy Squadron 42 either by itself or as an add-on to the title that started it all.

The studio hasn't said exactly how much Squadron 42 will cost at that point, but you currently have to pay $45 for the existing game combo. You may not have to shell out a full $90 to get both titles if you're too late, but don't be surprised if you're paying significantly more.

The move was expected, but it could still rub a lot of players the wrong way. While Star Citizen has always been ambitious, it's clear that this ambition is becoming expensive -- Squadron 42's lavish production values (such as actors Gary Oldman, Mark Hamill and Gillian Anderson) aren't completely covered, it seems. The split could be worthwhile if it leads to richer gameplay, but the higher price will sting if you're a new player.