Why is Disney Dreamlight Valley Not Going Free-To-Play?

Although Disney Dreamlight Valley was initially marketed as a game that would eventually become free-to-play once it exited its early access period, Gameloft recently confirmed that this is no longer the case. Needless to say, the October 27 announcement was shocking to some players. The circumstances as to why the studio is changing course have sparked some controversy in Disney Dreamlight Valley‘s community, as some people are defending the switch, while others are giving voice to disappointment.