It’s Friday, and aside from the Trials of Osiris loot refresh, there’s also Xur! MP1st is back with our weekly Destiny 2 Xur location today and items May 8, 2020! Check out the details below.
Make sure to check out the upcoming reward changes planned for Year 4, right here.
Our early hands-on experience with Quantum League has left us wanting more, as it simply isn’t just another hero shooter lookalike, but instead an innovating take on time traveling in the competitive realm of gaming.
I’ll be honest; this preview is probably going to be a bit confusing for many as the concept of it is one I’ve yet to see in an online multiplayer game. It builds on a straightforward premise, that being the first team to eliminate the other and score the objective to win. Simple enough? Well, not exactly.
What makes Quantum League so unique is that it bases its gameplay around time loops. Time loops, as the name suggests, are actions that players record during matches that loopback. In total, players have three loops, each lasting 18 seconds. In the first loop, we typically found ourselves getting confrontational with the opposing team, with one of us “downing” one another. But it’s here where things get very interesting, because rather than “dying” you desync from the loop until the timer is up. In this time, you can either grab a medkit and resync up with the match (meaning your actions count again), or you can play cleverly and continue with your desynced loop.
A smart player could plan future confrontations by having their loop attempt to capture the objectives and desync other potential loops. This all makes more sense once the second loop begins because now you have the opportunity to save that desynced loop by countering the action that got it there in the first place. So now where your original loop was “killed” off, they are now continuing with whatever motion you had set them through with from before. And of course, this all continues in the third loop, up until you can score. It takes a bit to get use to, but once you do, you begin to realize just how smart (and different) of a system it is. There’s even friendly fire, an option I typically dread, but came to enjoy because it added more to the careful planning.
Almost like a game of chess, if one could compare. As someone who’s cautious about the whole time traveling /time-loop concept in both films and games, to see it executed so well in a multiplayer environment is all too satisfying. The developers, Nimble Giant, have truly nailed down the concept in a way that makes sense. I love it, it’s fun, and it’s brilliant, and hopefully, a system that eventually expands and toy with other concepts of time.
Outside of the loop system, there’s the standard first-person shooter (FPS) gunplay. I won’t sugarcoat it and say it’s the best feeling gunplay I’ve played, but it’s acceptable. It feels very similar to a lot of other shooters that share its visual art direction, so take that as you will. There are no loadouts or hero classes, but instead, at the start of every round, you can select from five different weapons that do play into the planning with the loop system. Again, a simple premise with a unique system to uphold it. As for maps, they’re pretty decent in size for an arena shooter. I did like that they had the standard explosive barrels and a few other level interactions, as while those would be typical in any other shooters, the loop system really makes you lean on coming up with creative ways to use them.
And looping back (pun intended) to the lack of a hero system and custom weapons, it was a wise decision on the team’s part. Keeping things basic means that balancing won’t end up being a complete nightmare. The Loop system is pretty complicated as is, so adding different heroes with various abilities would most likely turn into one giant mess. As the phrase would go, sometimes less is more.
Going into this preview, I didn’t have many expectations, but leaving it now? Well, let’s just say that Quantum League is a game that everyone should give a chance. Nimble Giants have done a wonderful job with the trial, and as long as they keep at it, the final release will truly be special. I look forward to it then, and hopefully, it doesn’t disappoint. Quantum League is targeting a 2020 release on PC and the Nintendo Switch.
Quantum League preview code provided by the studio. Played on PC.
With video game events left and right being cancelled due to COVID-19 global pandemic, the Tokyo Game Show (TGS) is the latest one to get cancelled due to the virus. This TGS 2020 announcement was made by the Computer Entertanment Supplier’s Association, who also announced that a digita event is on the table as a replacement.
Tokyo Game Show 2020 Cancelled A Physical Event Format to Prevent COVID-19 Spread but Planned to Be Held Online
Tokyo Game Show 2020, scheduled to be held from September 24 (Thurusday) to 27 (Sunday), 2020, is now planned to take place online. Tokyo Game Show 2020, which is usually held at Makuhari Messe, is cancelled. Tokyo Game Show 2020 is organized by the Computer Entertainment Supplier’s Association (CESA, Chairman: Hideki Hayakawa) and co-organized by Nikkei Business Publications, Inc. (President & CEO: Naoto Yoshida) and Dentsu Inc. (Representative Director: Hiroshi Igarashi).
Due to the outbreak of novel coronavirus (COVID-19) on a global scale and the situation remains unpredictable in Japan as well, the organizer and the co-organizers have reached this decision after a long consideration to place the utmost priority on the health and safety of visitors, exhibitors and stakeholders. We ask for your kind understanding and cooperation.
More information will be announced as needed on the official website and press releases from late May.
This year’s TGS was set to run from September 24 to 27 at the Makuhari Messe in Chiba, Japan. What’s more noteworthy here is that this is supposed to be the latest TGS before the next-gen consoles launch, though I’m hoping we’ll see the JP-made games for next-gen revealed during this digital event.
Thanks, Gematsu
If you’re one of the many players of Destiny 2 that want changes in how Bungie dishes out rewards for completing various activities, then you’ll want to stick around for Year 4. The studio has today outlined the Destiny 2 rewards changes they’re planning for the looter shooter’s fourth year.
In the latest This Week at Bungie post, Luke Smith talks about changes to Eververse rewards, core playlist (Strikes, Gambit, etc.) rewards and more. He even admits that in the current Destiny 2 meta, “the balance of the game’s rewards is not where we want it to be. To be blunt, there isn’t enough pursuit out in the world. We’re going to fix it.”
Again, theese Destiny 2 rewards changes are being plannd for Year 4.
VANITY AND ACCESSORY (SHIPS, GHOSTS & SPARROWS) CHANGES
CORE PLAYLIST REWARDS CHANGES (STRIKES, GAMBIT, AND CRUCIBLE)
DUST AND ENGRAMS.
In addition to that, the Iron Banner returns next week for the final Iorn Banner of the season. So make sure to mark that in you calendar since that’ll be your last chance to win event-related armor sets, emblems, and the Point of theStage Pursuit Bow.
Lastly, tomorrow’s Trials will have a map change! Trials maps will be on a “random rotation” in the foreseeable future says Bungie. We’ll get the rewards and which map is on rotation tomorrow once the event kicks off.
Codemasters has today announced Dirt 5, the next installment in the studio;s rally sim. Set for release this October on the PS4, Xbox One and PC, it’ll also appear on PS5, Xbox Series X. Check out the Dirt 5 trailer announce trailer below.
The expansive narrative-driven Career mode is bigger in every way with event types and challenges across some of the toughest terrain. Before hitting the track, get creative using the livery editor, with more customization options than any previous DIRT game. DIRT 5 features a non-linear progression path, so players can choose more of the events they want.DIRT 5 heralds the return of split-screen for up to four players. The full list of game modes will be announced shortly, including a new game mode focused on creativity and designed for social couch play with friends or global online battles against the best racers in the DIRT universe.
Additionally, video game veteran voice actors Nolan North and Troy Baker will lend their voices for the game. The duo will guide and mentor players Career mode, and feature in the Dirt 5 in-game podcast series.
Just last week, Infinity Ward revealed that the .357 revolver Snake Shot will be getting a nerf soon-ish and that time is now. Today, Infinity Ward released the Modern Warfare playlist update May 7 changes, which includes the Snake Shot nerf and more.
General Fixes:
Note that this is a server-side update and does not require a download. Players will automatically download it when connecting to the game’s servers.
As someone who has yet to unlock the Bruen LMG, I’m glad they’re toning challenges down since it’s a pain to constantly have to throw smoke wherever you are.
If there are other changes not included in this Modern Warfare playlist update March 7 edition, we’ll be sure to let our readers know.
Source: Infinity Ward
More Call of Duty Reading:
In case you didn’t know, Microsoft is set to blow the lid wide open on some sweet Xbox Series X 2020 titles and beyond! Starting today, and continuning every month, Microsoft is launching the “Xbox 20/20” digital event that will give us our first look at Xbox Series X gameplay and more.
The event starts at 8 a.m. PT/11 a.m. ET, with a pre-recorded video which you should be able to watch below. In case this hasn’t hammered home yet, this will be our first official glimpse pf actual next-gen Xbox Series X gameplay!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xlC-e9FmzNY
What was already going to be a once-in-a-generation year for gaming – a new generation of consoles, a wave of new next-generation games, and the launch of new ways to play with game streaming – 2020 has become the year that challenged us all and tested every commitment we’ve made in the face of COVID-19. Difficult tests tend to reveal your true priorities, and for us they are the health and safety of our employees, our fans and partners. We also want to be transparent in letting our players know what we are doing and what we are thinking during such a crucial time.
Clearly, this year has challenged us to rethink the way we come together to celebrate the important milestones in gaming, and that means working with the knowledge that we may not be able to come together in the same place. Having seen firsthand the resolve of Xbox players, families and friends coming together, doing the right thing and staying home to help flatten the curve, we’ve all felt energized to rethink our approach. How can we share that feeling of excitement and anticipation we all get in gaming’s biggest moments? How could we capture and distribute that feeling I got when I joined Team Xbox – that moment when I got to see what happens next.
So, what is in store for 2020?
This is a momentous year for Xbox, with our next-gen console paving the way for all our games and services to come together in even better ways. Here’s what 2020 looks like, just to start:
It’s a lot – and that’s saying something in 2020, a year which could be summed up as “a lot.” With all this in mind, we set out to create new touchpoints to celebrate gaming and share what’s next with our global community.
Xbox 20/20
Starting with the May 7 episode of Inside Xbox, we will be showcasing what happens next in the world of Xbox, every month, which is why we’re calling it “Xbox 20/20.” These monthly moments will take place throughout the rest of the year and will be a way for us to engage, connect and celebrate with you about what’s in store for the next generation of gaming, including what’s next for Xbox Series X, Xbox Game Studios, Xbox Game Pass and Project xCloud. Every month will bring something different. Stay tuned to Xbox Wire for more details.
For the Xbox 20/20 May update, we will focus on giving you a first look at next-gen gameplay, trailers and sneak peeks from a wide variety of publishing partners and independent developers across the globe and industry, including Ubisoft’s recently announced Assassin’s Creed Valhalla, and hear from game creators about what they’re doing with their games on Xbox Series X.
We’ll be confirming games that utilize our new Smart Delivery feature, which ensures that you always play the best version of the games you own for your console, across generations. And all the games you’ll see will be Xbox Series X Optimized, meaning they are built to take advantage of the powerful Xbox Series X features that make games look and feel incredible, including 4K resolution at up to 120 frames per second, DirectStorage, hardware-accelerated DirectX raytracing, super-fast load times and much more.
In addition to the Xbox Series X 2020 gameplay debut, Microsoft has outlined what’s in store for the Xbox brand this 2020!
So, what is in store for 2020?
This is a momentous year for Xbox, with our next-gen console paving the way for all our games and services to come together in even better ways. Here’s what 2020 looks like, just to start:
- Our goal remains to launch Xbox Series X and Halo Infinite this Holiday
- All 15 Xbox Game Studios teams are hard at work on next-generation games for Xbox Series X and Xbox Game Pass
- The best development teams around the world are working hard to have their games ready to play on Xbox Series X this holiday
- For PC players, we plan to support the community by making all our major releases at launch available with Xbox Game Pass for PC, including Halo Infinite, Wasteland 3, Minecraft Dungeons and of course, Microsoft Flight Simulator.
- We have new updates and titles lined up for Xbox Game Pass for console and PC
- We’re expanding Project xCloud into new countries and on new devices—and later this year Project xCloud and Xbox Game Pass will come together, enabling you and your friends to play together in more ways.
Aside from Xbox Series X, players can also look forward to Xbox Game Studios, Xbox Game Pass and Project xCloud info as well in the coming months from this monthly digital event.
Gamers will be able to watch via the following platforms:
Stay tuned for more Xbox Series X 2020 news right here on MP1st!
Source: Xbox
More Xbox Series X Reading:
Epic Games has released a new Fortnite update today, and this brings the game to Fortnite version 2.70 on consoles, though Epic Games calls this Fortnite update v12.51. Same as always, the list of known fixes can be seen below as well as the info datamined from the patch.
Currently, Epic gas not updated the official Trello board to reflect any changes and fixes made. Once they do, we’ll update the post. In the meantime, go check out the new content datamined.
Unfortunately, there are no new cosmetics included in this new Fortnite patch as per Fortnite dataminer FortTory:
No new cosmetics this update as expected. This update was just for several bug fixes for Party Royale.
— FortTory – Fortnite leaks & news (@FortTory) May 7, 2020
No new cosmetics this update as expected. This update was just for several bug fixes for Party Royale.
Another Fortnite dataminer, Lucas7yoshi chime in and reaffirmed that this is for fixes and nothing else.
https://t.co/Ogu7V4t6d2.DONE.DONEDONE
Some file for the camera
a skin was renamed in the game files
a particle modifier was added
a timer was added for party royale
thats all
— Lucas7yoshi – FESTIVAL ARC??? (@Lucas7yoshi) May 7, 2020
http://v12.50.2.10.1.41.5.1.F52AB2FF.RELEASE.FINAL.FINAL.FINALTHISTIME.ISWEAR.FINAL.DONE.DONEDONE
Some file for the camera
a skin was renamed in the game files
a particle modifier was added
a timer was added for party royale
thats all
That’s basically it. If we find or spot any new content or fixes included, we’ll be sure to update the post. If you spot any, leave a comment below to tell us what it is.
More MP1st Reading:
Just last week, we reported that Ubisoft Massive has targeted a mid-late May release for The Division Title Update 9.1. Today, during the latest State of the Game devstream, the studio announced The Division 2 Title Update 9.1 release date is set for May 12!
Aside from The Division 2 Title Update 9.1 release date, a patch preview (not the complete patch notes) have been revealed as well.
Title Update 9.1
Release Date: Tuesday, May 12th
Patch Notes: Next Monday
Title Update 9.1 will also include balance changes for NPCs, addressing enemy Skills, weapons, and abilities that stand out as causing difficulty spikes. The developers are still looking at further changes and adjustments, and the first pass includes the following:
There will be an overall balance pass with Title Update 10 that expands on that.
The throwers of the different factions have different throwing ranges. The Outcast thrower has an optimal range of 20m, so you will notice it earlier, while the Hyena Thrower has a 30m optimal range.
The goal is not to make it too easy but address the mentioned outliers that can cause frustration.
Title Update 10 will look into more global changes (might not even be necessary after the TU9.1 changes) and then take it from there. (Loot will be a topic for TU10)
Some other WIP changes that are currently being worked on are:
Same as always, once the patch is out, we’ll let our readers know ASAP.
Source: Reddit
Are you a fan of Call of Duty: Modern Warfare’s free-to-play battle royale component Call of Duty Warzone? If so, you’ll be glad to know that Activision is looking to support it well into the future.
This was mentioned by Activision President Rob Kitsch during yesterday’s quarterly earnings call.
So regarding the future of Warzone, we know how much the community is loving it. We know how much they’re enjoying the experience so far. So we’re going to continue to invest in this significantly, in terms of content, events, new modes, new ways to play, and really just a ton more in the future. – Rob Kitsch, Activision President
This should be welcome news to the Warzone player base as this means that even with Call of Duty 2020 on the horizon, Activsiion has a long-term plan for the F2P game.
In the same earnings call, Activision revealed that a large number of Warzone players have upgraded to the full, premium Modern Warfare game.
Source: SeekingAlpha (login required)
More Call of Duty Reading:
Star Wars Project Maverick received an update late last night, though details behind the update are yet to be known due to the game still being unannounced. A few more details, however, have surfaced, revealing that this is indeed being handled by EA.
Taking a look at the website PS4Patches, Star Wars: Project Maverick received a new update bringing it to revision 1.01. Along with, a few other details can be found when exploring the content even further. For starters, the title ID that leaked previously belongs to that of the European PlayStation Store. The info is displayed publicly on PS4Patches, though if you want to verify that the ID (EP0006-CUSA19053_00-MAVERICKBETA0001) does indeed belong to that specific region, you can look at the start of it to see the letters “EP”. Simply opening different region PlayStation Stores and finding a random title will show that “EP” belongs to European regions, whereas “UP” is that of the US PlayStation Store and “JP” for Japan. You can see the supplied example down below, and yes we did attempt to input the ID as a URL but nothing appeared.
The Last of Us Part II US PlayStation Store ID
The Last of Us Part II Europe PlayStation Store ID
With the title now properly registering with PS4Patches, we took the ID and ran it through our own custom PS4 update tracker, which in turn revealed that the title (Star Wars: Project Maverick) is coming from EA as it populates “EA Internal Playtest” as it’s package name.
This information was also verified using the PlayStation Information Checker public tool that looks up the title IDs.
Image of the EA Playtest Logo taken from the PKG file (via PS4Patches) of the beta, along with more a screenshot verifying the information above.
You may find the naming to be a bit odd as it would make more sense for them to use the actual one listed on the PNG image that leaked, however, anyone who is familiar with private beta testing on any platform, you’ll know that sometimes the developers will use a different name than their actual product. They do this for a number of reasons and it usually ends up being the codename of the project. In this case, the game has been given the default name of “EA Internal Playtest”, which obviously suggests this is an internal build over at EA.
Furthermore, the title now has background music, which you can grab off PS4Patches for verification. You’ll need to convert it into a playable format, which is possible with the right tools. For those who don’t know what “background music” is, it’s the music that begins to play on the PS4 main home screen when viewing specific titles. Some games have it, some don’t, and some even default to the PS4 standard menu music. Now you may be wondering what’s so important about background music? Because Maverick happens to be sharing the same exact one as two other EA Star Wars games, and those happen to be Battlefront 1 and Battlefront 2. We went ahead and redownloaded both titles just to be 100%, and sure enough, they do. And in case anyone is curious, Star Wars: Fallen Order does not have background music and is one of that title that defaults to the PS4 menu music. You can have a listen down below.
If you’re digging Season 3 of Call of Duty: Modern Warfare, prepare for more as Activision has disclosed that there are two seasons for Modern Warfare in Q2 2020 compared to players just getting one season in Q1! And yes, this applies to Warzone as well.
This bit of news was shared by Activision Chief Financial Officer and President of Emerging Businesses Dennis Durkin during Activision’s quarterly earnings call yesterday.
In Q2, Activision plans to deliver 2 seasons of in-game content for Modern Warfare and Warzone versus one season in the first quarter. Season Three has already launched very successfully in April. Activision also released Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 2 remastered on PC and Xbox One following the PS4 release in late Q1. – Dennis Durkin, Activision Chief Financial Officer and President of Emerging Businesses
With Season 3 already well underway, this means that Infinity Ward will once again announce a new set of maps, weapons, cosmetics and more for the title. I suspect we’ll hear more about the second season this Q2 this month so they can release it sometime in mid-May or early June.
In the same call, Activision announced that a large number of players playing the free-to-play battle royale component of Modern Warfare are upgrading to the premium version of the game. Modern Warfare has also set sales records and microtransactions for it have doubled Black Ops 4’s year-over-year, too.
Source: SeekingAlpha (login required)
Sony has once again continued with their Wednesday PlayStation Store sale offerings as we now have the “Hidden Gems” sale and it’s live until May 20! Check out the full list below.
In case you missed the news, Mortal Kombat 11 is getting a new DLC expansion called “Aftermath,“, which will introduce three new characters along with new story content. In addition to this paid DLC, owners of Mortal Kombat 11 will also be receiving a free update that will add new stages, and more surprisingly, the return of friendship finishers. Warner Bros. has published a set of new videos, showing off some of the Mortal Kombat 11 Friendship finishers and a cinematic scene from the Aftermath expansion.
Mortal Kombat 11 Friendships finishers
Game co-creator Ed Boon also posted a video showing off one of Sub Zero’s new finishers.
“THE ICE CREAM MAN IS COMING!”
– Eddie. Murphy#MortalKombat11 #Aftermath #Friendshippic.twitter.com/Dilogl5yKt— Ed Boon (@noobde) May 6, 2020
In addition to these new videos above, we have also received a three-minute video of the Aftermath storyline.
Mortal Kombat 11 Aftermath expansion will be launching May 26th for the PlayStation 4, Xbox One, PC, Nintendo Switch, & Stadia. An update should go live sometime before that will be free for all users. It will add friendship finishers along with new stages and quality of life improvements. We’ll be sure to have the full patch details once they go live.
Just a few days ago, members of Sony Interactive Entertainment published a video demonstrating hand-gestures being tracked from a controller. While impressive, the controller itself wasn’t exactly practical for commercial use, though it appears that the latest PlayStation patent indicates that those features are being fitted onto the new PS Move controller, or at least being looked into.
Before continuing, we suggest you watch the video, posted by Uploadvr.com which shows the finger tracking controller in action.
Pretty cool, right? We thought so so at least, however that controller isn’t exactly the most comfortable looking one, and thankfully PlayStation appears to be exploring different design options, including a new PS Move controller.
The first design to appear in the patent is a PS Move navigation like controller that is all touched based, including the spot where the joystick would normally go.
The next one is a wearable glove (insert PTSD flashbacks of the Powerglove).
illustrates a controller device in the form factor of a glove interface object incorporating a plurality of flex sensors, in accordance with an implementation of the disclosure.
illustrates a side view of a glove interface object having flex sensors defined thereon, in accordance with an implementation of the disclosure.
illustrates a glove interface object having a plurality of flex sensors positioned at joint regions of the glove interface object, in accordance with an implementation of the disclosure.
Another one that appears to be a Move controller hybrid with large buttons and sensors around the extending band.
And lastly, the new PlayStation Move Controller, which looks identical to the one we have except it’s been fitted with the very same sensors shown in the other controllers to provide finger-tracking.
Demonstration of how the finger-tracking works.
To secure controller device 104 to the user’s hand and prevent accidental dropping of the controller device 104, the controller device 104 further includes a hand strap 504 that is configured to wrap around the palm of the user’s hand, thereby maintaining the controller device 104 in contact with the user’s palm even when the user’s hand is completely open (fingers extended). The controller device 104 also includes a wrist strap 506 configured to secure the controller device 104 to the user’s wrist. The controller device 104 further includes a trigger 508, that is configured to be operated by the index finger of the user’s hand, when holding the controller device 104.
In order to detect the postures of the fingers of the user’s hand, the controller device 104 includes a plurality of proximity sensors that are configured to detect the presence or absence of portions of the user’s fingers in proximity to the proximity sensors, and/or distances to the portions of the user’s fingers, when the user is holding/operating/using the controller device 104. These include proximity sensors 510a, 510b, 512, 514a–c, 516a–c, and 518 a–c.
The various proximity sensors may detect the presence/absence/distance of different portions of the user’s fingers depending upon which hand is holding the controller device 104 and the size of the user’s hand. Broadly speaking for an average size hand, when the controller device 104 as shown is held by the user’s right hand, then the proximity sensor 510a is configured to detect the proximity of the right thumb, whereas the proximity sensors 510b and 512 are configured to detect the proximity of portions of the right index finger. It will be appreciated that the proximity sensor 512 is integrated with the trigger 508, thereby providing both trigger functionality and proximity sensing simultaneously. Continuing with reference to the controller device 104 being held by the right hand of the user, then the proximity sensors 514a, 514b, and 514c are configured to detect the proximity of various portions of the user’s right middle finger; the proximity sensors 516a, 516b, and 516c are configured to detect the proximity of various portions of the user’s right ring finger; and the proximity sensors 518a, 518b, and 518c are configured to detect the proximity of various portions of the user’s right pinky finger.
It’s clear from the video above that PlayStation is already working on it, although whether or not it will be available as a final product is to be seen. We’ll be sure to keep you all posted on any major PlayStation news, in the meantime, what are your thoughts on this new PS Move controller? Do you prefer they stick with the PS Move for familiarity? Or perhaps go with one of the other designs? Let us know in the comments below!
In other related PlayStation news, Sony has also filed a patent for facial tracking features for the PlayStation VR, which is the accessory used usually with the PS Move.
Source: USPTO
After previously being leaked, the Mortal Kombat 11 Aftermath expansion has finally been revealed, expanding on the current story of Mortal Kombat 11.
Mortal Kombat 11 Aftermath will be launching on May 26th for the PlayStation 4, Xbox One, PC, Stadia, and Nintendo Switch. It will feature a new storyline, continuing where Mortal Kombat 11 left off. In addition, three new characters will be available, along with there new skin packs. Pre-ordering the expansion will grant you the Eternal Klash Skin pack, with PlayStation 4 owners getting an exclusive dynamic theme. As for standard owners who don’t want to purchase the expansion, you can expect a free update to arrive the same day that will add new stages and fatalities.
You can watch the Mortal Kombat 11 Aftermath trailer down below.
The confirmed characters to be releasing are Fujin, Shiva, and wait for it… Robocop!
About Aftermath –
The epic saga continues in Mortal Kombat 11: Aftermath, as Fire God Liu Kang, the new keeper of time and protector of Earthrealm, must now enlist the help of unlikely allies and familiar foes to forge a new history as the fate of two worlds hang in the balance. Adding to the growing roster of playable fighters, the new expansion features the triumphant return of Fujin, the God of Wind who serves as Earthrealm’s protector alongside his brother Raiden, and Sheeva, the four-armed, half-human and half-dragon queen of the ancient Shokan race. RoboCop, the iconic, highly advanced cybernetic police officer will make his first appearance in the franchise, continuing the pedigree of popular Mortal Kombat guest fighters. RoboCop in Mortal Kombat 11: Aftermath features the voice and likeness of actor Peter Weller, who portrayed the popular character in both the original “RoboCop” (1987) film and “RoboCop 2” (1990) sequel. Mortal Kombat 11: Aftermath will also include three new character skin packs to be released over time.
Additionally, all Mortal Kombat 11 owners will have access to new Stages, including the return of the Klassic Dead Pool and Soul Chamber arenas, accompanied by Stage Fatalities, the fan-favorite finishing moves that use the environment to destroy opponents, and the popular Friendships feature from the ‘90s, which allows players to take down their adversaries with a hint of kindness. These features will be available as a free content update in conjunction with the Mortal Kombat 11: Aftermath release.
If you own Mortal Kombat 11, you’ll be able to purchase expansion separately ($40), with new players being able to get the Kollection Edition. This version will contain the base game, the first Kombat Pass, and the expansion all for $60. There will be a physical version that will be released sometime this June, although it will only be for America at this time.
With next-gen consoles looming on the horizon, some might be wondering whether EA’s output will be different given the new systems, and how this will affect the publisher’s platform strategy moving forward.
In the latest EA quarterly earnings call held today, EA was asked exactly this given there’s so many new platforms to launch on in the coming months. According to the publisher, this isn’t really an issue given EA has been able to get to platforms with more games of “high quality” compared to everyone else.
Andrew Uerkwitz (Oppenheimer): One kind of big picture one very near-term, a big picture question. With so many different new platforms to launch on, should we expect sort of the cadence between titles to kind of lengthen and going forward, kind of dig into the catalog and find things that either could be brought back to life or remastered, or how does the broader platform strategy affected — how should we think about it affecting future game development?
Andrew Wilson (EA CEO): Yes, absolutely. I would say, the strength of Electronic Arts is built on our ability to be platform agnostic. We’ve been able — throughout our history, we’ve been able to get to platforms with more titles of high quality than most everyone else in the industry. It is a position we’re very proud of and we continue to drive against that. Six or seven years ago, we anticipated that to be many more new platforms we would have to build on over time and that ultimately cloud would also emerge as its own platform across a number of different companies or portals. And part of the reason we moved the organization to a single digital platform, single ID, single commerce, single data, single infrastructure, single security, and we moved the organization to a single engine in Frostbite was in anticipation of this.
So, as these new platforms come online, we’re able to get to them more quickly and more efficiently and at higher quality than maybe our competitors can, who are working on multiple platforms and multiple engines and actually really use our scale to our advantage and our ability to do that. And what you’re seeing from us now is our ability to get to console and new consoles and PC, Steam and Stadia and mobile, and you should expect that we — and Switch. And you should expect that we will continue to look to deliver great content on any and all new platforms that we think have the ability to reach critical mass of gamers.
Do you agree with Wilson or is he overstating the games EA has published recently? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.
Source: SeekingAlpha (login required)
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While Apex Legends is still doing well by itself in the battle royale space, it now has two heavyweight competition instead of one (Fortnite) with the boom of Call of Duty: Warzone. During today’s quarterly earnings call by EA today, the publisher was asked about the Apex Legends decline and what the publisher’s takeaway is on this.
Drew Crum (Stifel): Blake, I wondered if you could deconstruct the performance of live services during the quarter, understanding that the Apex comp was difficult. What were some of the puts and takes on the 7% decline?
EA COO Blake Jorgensen answered by stating this decline is mostly due to the game racking ridiculous player count numbers at breakneck speeds, and how it has now reached a “regular cadence.”
Blake Jorgensen (EA COO): Yes, sure. Thanks. Good questions. So, on live services, almost all of the delta was driven by Apex Legends. And remember, we came out of the gate last September — or last February, excuse me, on fire, like you never would have believed, right? And so, the massive business. And then we’ve settled into a regular cadence and we’ve been able to grow that each quarter through all the seasons that we’ve had, and we’re feeling very good about that.
While that in itself might not be welcome news to investors, Apex Legends is still doing very well, as EA mentioned that it was the most downloaded free-to-play game on PS4 in 2019, and the most recent event “Old Ways” released in April, has become the most successful ever for Apex Legends according to EA CEO Andrew Wilson.
Apex Legends was the most downloaded free-to-play game on PS4 in 2019, and continues to grow as an innovative, long-term service for players. It’s been continually recognized as one of the best multiplayer experiences available, and with each new season of content, Respawn have been delivering more of what players love — from lore, to new Legends, to in-game events.
Before COVID-19 stay-at-home orders began, Season 4 was already outperforming each of the two prior seasons, and the Old Ways event in April has become the most successful ever for Apex. Our Apex esports tournaments have generated approximately two times the average viewing audience of other top esports leagues. Respawn have added more teams in our development organization to work on great new content, and we continue to have a strong focus on the thriving Apex Legends community. – Andrew Wilson, EA CEO
Speaking of events, we’re about to get a new legend in the upcoming Season 5 kick-off called Fortune’s Favor which starts next week. You can check out the launch trailer of Season 5 right here to see what’s coming.
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In case you didn’t know, DICE has announced that Battlefield 5, which is the most recent Battlefield game, is getting its last content drop later this year. With that in mind, some might be wondering how development on the next Battlefield game is going amid the on-going COVID-19 pandemic — something DICE has acknowledged that it has accepted now by working from home.
During EA’s quarterly earnings call earlier today, EA was asked by Matthew Thornton of SunTrust whether the publisher can talk about the next Battlefield title being pushed back to fiscal year 2022.
Matthew Thornton: Hey Andrew, hey Blake. Thanks for taking the questions. Maybe two if I could. You guys have talked a little bit about Battlefield, being pushed out to fiscal ‘22. Wonder if you could maybe just give us any other color or comments or thoughts on other kind of pipeline projects as we look out in the out years.
Andrew Wilson (EA CEO):First, I would say, Battlefield is progressing very, very well. We’re excited by what the team’s doing. And again, in the context of the work-at-home environment that had been truly inspirational and how that continued to develop great entertainment in the context of our Battlefield universe. So, I’m excited for when next year comes.
In the same earnings call, Wilson talked about the publisher’s annualized releases such as sports games, and how titles like Battlefield and Dragon Age are titles that launch on a “multi-year basis.”
And so, as we think about our broader portfolio, you’ll continue to see us launch games on an annualized basis. Our sports games would be a good example there. You will continue to see us launch games on a multiyear basis, things like Battlefield or some of our titles out of Dragon Age would be a good example of that. You’ll continue to see us think about games on a five and six-year time horizon. The Sims which launched the game over five years ago and continues to grow every year through extra content live services would be an example of that. And then, you’ll see us launch true platform games, like Apex Legends, which we expect will have — continue to grow over the next decade. – Andrew Wilson, EA CEO
While Battlefield 5 fans might be sad at how the game turned out, at least we can take comfort in the fact that the next Battlefield game is developing quite nicely, no? At least according to EA.
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Rainbow Six Siege players have something new to tackle starting today, as Ubisoft has announced the Rainbow Six Siege new event “The Grand Larceny.” Beginning today until May 19, this limited time event mode brings an all-new game mode.
This event will last two weeks from May 5 until May 19. In this cracking 5-vs.-5 inspired by the British mob of the 1920s, gunshots ring through the hallways of the Headquarters. Most Operators will be unlocked to play in this event, with a few exceptions due to gameplay specificities: Glaz, Nomad, Buck, Montagne, Blitz, Caveira, Kali, Clash, Blackbeard, Lion, IQ, Tachanka, Recruit, Twitch and Mozzie won’t be available. Each Operator will only have a main shotgun equipped, customized with the event’s weapon skins as found in The Grand Larceny Collection and the Roaring Riches Bundle.
The Stolen Goods game mode is different from the standard ones. No Hostage, no Area to Secure, no Bombs to Defuse. No Preparation Phase, no Attacker’s drone. However, there are Safeboxes spread throughout the map. Defenders must protect these at all costs, but they can also win rounds by eliminating all their opponents. Attackers, on the other hand, must open a certain amount of Safeboxes, or eliminate all the Defenders. Players will be informed where the Safeboxes are located, alongside adjustments to flooring that will remove select metal beams after destruction, allowing players to be even more creative with their shotguns. Players must be prepared for an amount of destruction never seen in Rainbow Six Siege.
The Grand Larceny Collection will introduce 31 new items feautring customization for Amaru, Fuze, Gridlock, Hibana, Maverick, Echo, Maestro, Kaid, Wamai, and Warden. The Grand Larceny pack can be obtained by completing special event challenges (once per week) or by buying ’em for 300 R6 Credits or 12,500 Renown each.
