Arma Reforger vs Deluxe Edition: Which Version Delivers More Bang for Your Buck?
When Bohemia Interactive announced Arma Reforger, fans of the long-running tactical military simulation series sat up and took notice. Not just for its return to Cold War-era combat or its ambitious Forge toolset, but for the critical choice players now face: should you buy the Standard Edition… or go all-in with the Deluxe Edition? With pricing, content, and long-term value hanging in the balance, this decision isn’t just about spending more — it’s about investing smarter. In this deep dive, we’ll dissect both editions, compare what you’re really getting, and help you determine which version of Arma Reforger matches your playstyle and budget.
Understanding the Core Experience: What Is Arma Reforger?
Before we pit editions against each other, let’s ground ourselves in what Arma Reforger actually offers. Positioned as both a standalone game and a “bridge” to Arma 4, Reforger delivers large-scale, team-based combat on the fictional island of Everon — a nostalgic callback to Arma: Cold War Assault. The game emphasizes realism, combined arms warfare, and player-driven scenarios. But its crown jewel? The Forge — a powerful, in-game editor that lets players design, script, and publish missions without leaving the client. This isn’t just a game; it’s a platform.
Whether you’re coordinating squad maneuvers in PvP, surviving in co-op against AI, or tinkering with custom scenarios, Arma Reforger rewards patience, teamwork, and creativity. But here’s the catch: your enjoyment may hinge on which edition you choose.
Standard Edition: The Bare Essentials
Priced at $29.99, the Standard Edition of Arma Reforger includes:
- Full access to the base game and multiplayer
- The Everon map (35 sq km)
- Core weapons, vehicles, and factions (NATO vs. CSAT)
- Access to the Forge editor and Workshop content
- Cross-platform play between PC and Xbox (Game Pass)
This edition is perfect for newcomers testing the waters or veterans who primarily engage with community content. You’re not missing out on core gameplay — the tactical depth, the emergent storytelling, the sandbox freedom — it’s all there. Many players log hundreds of hours without ever touching paid DLC.
Case in point: Reddit user “TangoActual” shared how he and his squad built a weekly campaign using only Standard Edition assets and Workshop mods. “We scripted ambushes, supply drops, and even weather-triggered events — all without spending an extra dime.”
Deluxe Edition: What’s Under the Hood?
At $44.99, the Deluxe Edition costs 50% more — but what does that premium buy you?
- Everything in the Standard Edition
- Digital Artbook (concept art, developer commentary)
- Original Soundtrack (atmospheric, cinematic score by Ondřej Lukeš)
- Digital Map Poster (high-res Everon terrain for printing or desktop)
- In-game “Deluxe” Cosmetic Pack (unique helmet skins, weapon camos, parachute design)
Notice something? None of these additions affect gameplay. You won’t get extra weapons, larger maps, or exclusive missions. The Deluxe Edition is purely a collector’s bundle — a “thank you” package for superfans and content supporters.
That said, don’t underestimate the value of immersion. The soundtrack, for instance, isn’t just background noise — it’s a moody, tension-building companion for solo patrols or late-night editing sessions in Forge. The artbook offers rare insight into Bohemia’s design philosophy, making it a treasure for lore enthusiasts.
Value Analysis: Is the Deluxe Upgrade Worth It?
Let’s break this down pragmatically.
For the Casual or Budget-Conscious Player:
Stick with Standard. The Deluxe extras are nice-to-haves, not must-haves. If you’re unsure whether Arma Reforger suits you, spending $30 is a low-risk entry point. You can always upgrade later — and Bohemia has confirmed that Deluxe content will remain available for separate purchase.
For the Content Creator or Die-Hard Fan:
The Deluxe Edition shines. If you livestream, make YouTube videos, or design complex Forge scenarios, the soundtrack and art assets become production tools. The cosmetic items also let you personalize your loadout without affecting balance — a subtle but satisfying perk.
For Completionists and Collectors:
If you own every Arma game, have the DayZ Collector’s Edition, and still have your Operation Flashpoint box, then yes — Deluxe is for you. It’s about owning the full package, supporting the devs, and having bragging rights in the community forums.
Hidden Factors: Workshop, Game Pass, and Longevity
One critical advantage both editions share? Access to the Steam Workshop and Xbox mod support. This means the community constantly expands the game’s scope — new missions, vehicles, even total conversions. A Standard Edition player with a knack for modding can easily outpace a Deluxe owner who never touches Workshop content.
Also worth noting: Arma Reforger is available on Xbox Game Pass for PC. Subscribers get the full Standard Edition at no extra cost. If you’re already paying for Game Pass, there’s zero reason to buy Standard — but Deluxe remains a worthwhile add-on for its exclusive digital goodies.
Long-term, Bohemia has promised free content updates, including new maps and gameplay systems. That levels the playing field even further — your initial edition