To say that Sea of Thieves has had a rocky launch would be an understatement, and that’s not because the game features some really impressive and oftentimes tumultuous waters. Developer Rare has struggled to keep up with the demand of its seafaring adventure and as a result, there have been plenty of problems. Server issues have kept players out of the game, but once they do get in the problems don’t stop there.

Arguably the biggest issue with Sea of Thieves’ in-game experience is the rewards system, which is significantly broken. As players turn in chests, skulls, or items like red speckled chickens for the Merchant Alliance they are supposed to receive gold and an increase in reputation for the given faction (Gold Hoarders, Order of Souls, Merchant Alliance). Unfortunately, a problem with the game’s rewards system is delaying those rewards, according to Rare.

To turn in an item and get nothing in return is a huge blow to Sea of Thieves because the game is largely built around a gameplay loop of turning things in. Getting gold to buy new cosmetics is all Sea of Thieves really has going for it right now, so limiting that in any way is not only discouraging, it’s deflating. Server issues are always a top priority, but getting past those and finding an unfulfilling experience is arguably just as bad.

Rare is well aware of the issue and says that it stems from a backlog with its messaging system. The developer says that players should still be rewarded their gold and reputation, but it may be delayed. The problem with that is gaining reputation is essential to getting better Voyages, which typically deliver higher value treasures.

In our experience, the best solution is exactly to leave the game and log back in, even though Rare says not to. We tried waiting to see if the gold and reputation might come in, but after about an hour and nothing appearing it was time to try something else. And sure enough, logging out and in showed a new gold balance and increased reputation.

Say what you will about the lack of content in Sea of Thieves, but an issue like this is easily one that can discourage any player. There are already questions of, “What is the point?,” when it comes to the game, and now the actual point is not working properly. Hopefully, Rare can work out a fix soon because if the weekend hits and this is still an issue, there are likely to be a lot of players that never return.

Sea of Thieves is available now for PC and Xbox One.