A new set of hotfixes is now available for The First Descendant. Here’s the lowdown on The First Descendant update 1.40, aka Hotfix 1.2.2.
The First Descendant Update 1.40 Brings Yet Another Wave of Hotfixes
Content Improvements
(1) Balance: Intercept Battles
Molten Fortress and Gluttony Intercept Battles have been changed to allow for solo matchmaking.
The following nerfs have been applied to Molten Fortress and Gluttony:
※ If you have not downloaded the Hotfix 1.2.2 update, you may be able to enter the Void Intercept Battle solo without the difficulty adjustment applied. Please make sure to update your game before participating in the Intercept Mission.
Molten Fortress
If the beam of a Frenzy Suppressor is linked correctly to another device during the Frenzied state, this device can no longer be operated or changed afterward.
Adjusted the spawn timing of Frenzy Suppressors to spawn when the Molten Fortress rises from the ground during its Frenzied state.
Adjusted the number of Roly-poly summoned by the Molten Fortress from 8 to 4 during the Normal state and 6 during the Frenzied state.
Molten Fortress now enters the Frenzied state less frequently.
Gluttony
Adjusted the Impurity to be drawn to Gluttony when they are within a 15m radius of Gluttony.
Adjusted the amount of the Wipe Attack Gauge that increases when the Unstable Energy is absorbed by Gluttony from 20% to 10%.
Unstable Energy explosions required to cancel the Frenzied state now doubled, making it easier to cancel.
Gluttony now moves around the center of the map more frequently.
Adjusted the cooldown of Gluttony’s Melee Attack (raking the ground with its arms) from 5 seconds to 20 seconds.
Adjusted Gluttony’s basic shotgun attack so that it can be used at close range.
Gluttony now enters the Frenzied state less frequently.
Reduced Gluttony’s ATK by approximately 47.4%.
(2) Balance: Reactors
– The “Attribute Power Boost Ratio” random option can only be acquired from Reactors of the same Attribute.
The “Chill Power Boost Ratio” random option can only be acquired from Chill Reactors.
The “Non-Attribute Power Boost Ratio” random option can only be acquired from Non-Attribute Reactors.
The “Fire Power Boost Ratio” random option can only be acquired from Fire Reactors.
The “Toxic Power Boost Ratio” random option can only be acquired from Toxic Reactors.
The “Electric Power Boost Ratio” random option can only be acquired from Electric Reactors.
The “HP Heal Modifier” random option can only be acquired from Non-Attribute Reactors.
(3) Balance: Descendants
Adjusted the duration of Active Camouflage when using Ultimate Sharen’s skill module “Ambushed” from 4 seconds to 6 seconds.
Adjusted the cooldown of some of Keelan’s skills.
Septic Gust: 60 seconds → 35 seconds
Tremor: 80 seconds → 60 seconds
Adjusted Keelan’s Skill Module “Focus on Prey.”
Adjusted the damage per Acidic Decay stack of Tremor.
Lv. 1: 470.3% → 655.5%
Lv. 2: 480% → 670%
Lv. 3: 488.6% → 683%
Lv. 4: 494.8% → 692.2%
Adjusted the cooldown of the Void Corrosion skill from 10 seconds to 8 seconds.
Adjusted Keelan’s Skill Module “Mobile Strike.”
Adjusted the cooldown of the Hunting Time skill from 150 seconds to 55 seconds.
Adjusted the duration of the Adventurer’s Spirit effect of Hunting Time from 3 seconds to 4 seconds. It is now affected by the “‘Skill Duration Increase” stat.
Keelan cannot move to a higher position by using the Onslaught skill while the Adventurer’s Spirit effect is active. The delay after pressing the skill button has been reduced.
(4) Content
Added the “Start Private Operation” feature to Special Operations.
The difficulty level will not be adjusted according to the number of players. Only the individual/party that has applied to enter will be able to participate in the Special Operation.
Changed the Sphere mechanic of Commander monsters that appear in the following content to the Monster Extermination mechanic.
Kingston: Slumber Vally (Normal/400%), Magister Lab (400%), and Albion Resource Defense (Normal/Hard)
Vespers: The Shelter (Normal), Void Fusion Reactor – Vespers Ruins (Normal/Hard), Void Fusion Reactor – Vespers Lost Supply Depot (Normal/Hard), and Moonlight Lake: Vulgus Strategic Outpost (Normal/Hard)
Fortress: Quarantine Zone (400%) and Albion Resource Defense (Normal/Hard)
Amorphous Material Patterns that can be obtained from the Outposts in each Zone can now be earned as Selectable Rewards in Infiltration Operations in the same Zone.
Upon completing a mission on Normal Difficulty, you can earn 1 Amorphous Material Pattern.
Upon completing a mission on Hard Difficulty, you can earn up to 2 patterns depending on your total score based on the Kill Score Multiplier.
– Falling or cancelling Grappling Hooks no longer counts as jumping.
(5) UI & UX
Improved the Library to display the Research progress in the Details based on the actual Research status.
On PC, opening the Ring Menu now moves the cursor to the center of the Ring Menu.
(6) Miscellaneous
Added “Quick Turn” as an option in Controller > Normal Button Settings > User Settings.
The button for this feature is not included in the Default settings and needs to be set separately.
If Sprint is set as the movement option, using the L3 button makes it easier to use this feature.
When a Commander monster’s phase changes, the movement location guide is now displayed for a longer duration.
The difficulty of the Valby Evolving Skin quests has been reduced.
Stage 2: Pass through 10,000 enemies with the Clean Up skill → 3,000 enemies
Stage 3: Pass through 20,000 enemies with the Clean Up skill → 6,500 enemies
Bug Fixes
(1) Descendants
Fixed an issue where using Esiemo’s Arche Explosion or Creative Explosion skill during an Emote displayed the incorrect motions.
Fixed an issue where Turrets could be removed when using Jayber’s Reactivate or Immediate Purge Code skill.
Fixed an issue where Jayber’s other skills were not available when using his Reactivate or Immediate Purge Code skill.
(2) Weapons & Modules
Fixed an issue where the effect of the Descendant Ultimate Module “MP Collector” would sometimes not activate when the module was equipped.
(3) UI/UX
Fixed an issue where the Owned icons on Descendant portraits would disappear when scrolling on the Usage Information screen of the Common Skins in the Customize menu.
Fixed an issue where the color change shortcut button was not displayed in the tooltip of the Fellow Skin equipped in the Customize menu.
Fixed an issue where entering the game through the “Go to the Last Played Map” would reset the Junk Filter.
Fixed an issue where attempting to check the Details of an equipped Emote in the User Settings menu of the Ring Menu did not display the Details and unequipped the Emote instead.
Fixed an issue where, after removing a Target Reward, clicking the empty slot in the Target Reward List would freeze the game on PC.
Fixed an issue where the discount rate was not applied correctly when purchasing Bundles that included already-owned components.
Fixed an issue where the text “Exclusive Item” was not displayed for some products.
(4) Miscellaneous
Fixed an issue where the Dread Armor Force did not trigger the trap mechanics normally in the Void Vessel.
Fixed an issue where the amount of Gold earned on the Results screen of a Special Operation on Hard Difficulty sometimes displayed the amount of Gold owned.
Fixed an issue where the ETA Intercept Battle, Infiltration, and Supplies Exchange awards were not checked.
Fixed an issue where your Target Reward gauge would reset if another player obtained your Target Reward item during Void Intercept Battle.
Fixed an issue where the default skin was not displayed after dismissing the Descendant.
A gamer at heart, James has been working for MP1st for the last decade to do exactly what he loves, writing about video games and having fun doing it. Growing up in the 90's gaming has been in his DNA since the days of NES. One day he hopes to develop his own game.
It’s been a challenging decade for Alien fans, but things finally started to turn around this year. It began with the spectacular release of Alien: Romulus, a film that brought the series back to its horror roots with a bloody, gory, and genuinely terrifying experience. Shortly after its release, game developer Creative Assembly announced they were finally working on a sequel to their 2014 first-person horror classic, Alien: Isolation. With the franchise’s future glowing bright green once again, one final highlight remained for fans: Alien: Rogue Incursion. A VR-only experience, it faced some skepticism due to underwhelming early reveals that weren’t all positive. It doesn’t help that leading into this release, the marketing has been on the light side, leaving many worried about the state of the game. We’ve seen it all too many times before, and the signs have all but pointed to a potentially disastrous release.
However, after spending the past week with the game, I can confidently say that those fears have been put aside, or rather, put elsewhere, as developers Survios have managed to recapture the essence of Alien, delivering a VR experience that makes you feel trapped, vulnerable, and relentlessly hunted in a way only this franchise can make you feel.
Note: As with any of my reviews, I’ll be very light on spoilers, strictly sticking to the already publicly known information. This means this review will be spoiler-free outside of what’s been revealed.
In VR, Everyone Can Hear You Scream
In Alien: Rogue Incursion, you take on the role of ex-colonial marine Zula Hendricks as she embarks on LV-354, otherwise known as Purdan. Her mission? To infiltrate a Weyland-Yutani black site where some of the worst of the worst experiments are ongoing. However, upon reaching her destination, Hendricks soon discovers that a far more sinister force lurks, as the research facilities have seemingly been overrun by humanity’s greatest threat, the Xenomorphs. With her trusty synth, Davis 01, by her side, Hendricks soon learns that this might just be her biggest mission yet, putting the entire universe’s fate at stake.
As far as the story goes, Alien: Rogue Incursion probably won’t be sweeping any awards for writing. It keeps the players interested and even pays homage with light nods to other mediums in the franchise. But beyond that, it’s generally a pretty straightforward story meant to keep the players engaged, which it does. The latter half of it does fall apart, with no real conclusion to it since the game’s being penned as two two-parter. That’s not to say there aren’t any surprises that will make you go, “holy shit,” but I would say that the real reason to play this isn’t so much for the story but how Survios manages to make what I would consider to be a proper VR Alien experience.
Whilst much of the gameplay trailers have been more geared toward being action-oriented, make no mistake that Alien: Rogue Incursion is a survival horror through and through. You get a gun, but much like our Colonial Marine counterparts learned in Aliens (the sequel movie to Alien), not even those can protect you from the perfect killing machine, the Xenomorphs.
In Rogue Incursion, they come at you in the masses, with no indications of their numbers ever dwindling. But this isn’t a hoard-mode type of game. No, I would argue that Rogue Incursion is more in line with Alien Isolation. You’re constantly moving, watching, and listening to your surroundings for any indications of a Xenomorph and other signs of life. Sure, they don’t take much to take down, but there is strength in numbers, which they certainly have and will use to their advantage. Ammo is scarce worldwide, and it’s easy to run out of it while traversing the abandoned facility.
The Xenomorphs are clever, as Drones (the common Xenomorph types) will do everything they can to try and catch you off guard, attempting to get a few attacks whenever possible. But knowing that you’re equipped with a weapon, they don’t mind sacrificing a few in the process, forcing you into a corner to try and reload or check your ammo reserves. It’s a terrifying feeling because even if you take one or two of them out, you know another one is lurking around, one that decided to use the opportunity to sneak behind you as the others distracted you. There have been countless moments where I’m holding my gun at the ready along with my motion tracker, with audible pings and multiple dots appearing on it, slowing inching towards me, only to realize they’re traveling in a vent below or above me, or slithering around a corner, waiting for me to cross it. One moment I remember was when I managed to kill two Xenomorphs, and thinking all was fine, I put my weapon away to see where my next objective was. It wouldn’t be long after I pulled the 3D map out that I heard a low hissing sound, and by the time I turned around, it was already too late, as a set of teeth suddenly popped right through my face. The fear at that moment almost made me throw my headset off because I wasn’t expecting that level of design, that type of unpredictability from this game that made me genuinely scared to keep playing.
Of course, I kept trekking through, but it was with caution rather than a dudebro approach like those unfortunate Space Marines had in Aliens. I felt vulnerable, not just to the Xenomorphs but to everything in the game. The environment, especially, felt directly ripped straight out from the 80’s set of the film. The attention to detail that Survios has put into the world goes unnoticed, as it looks like something you’d expect and want out of Alien. Although fiction, it’s a lo-fi and retrofuturistic look that looks and feels entirely believable. There’s imperfection to it that makes it, well, perfect. Survios just nails that look down to the T. A sense of curiosity accompanies it, draws you to it, and makes you want to take it all in. But at the same time, you realize if this were real life, you’d probably be creeped out by how cold and darkly lit everything is. Paranoia can easily creep over you if you stare at it too long. The environments are crafted in such a way that reminiscences to the movie sets, enhancing the tension, atmosphere, and storytelling.
Compared to the first film, you’ll have plenty of encounters with the Xenomorphs, but I cannot stress just how well the environments are designed and how they heightened the tension built by those encounters. This lingering feeling of constantly being watched made my hair stick up while exploring the multi-floored map. That’s something the first Alien movie got down because when you think about it, from a viewer’s perspective, the Xenomorph only got about four minutes of screen time out of a nearly two-hour-long movie. Most of that was right at the end, yet all the characters are constantly afraid of something they could not see. It’s utterly dreading, something Rogue Incursion captures perfectly throughout the game.
There are big action set pieces in the “final stand” type of way where you prep for large Xenomorph attacks. Those moments keep the gameplay fresh and interesting without making you feel overpowered. You’ll get a lot of ammo in those situations, but more times than not, battles will usually end up with you frantically trying to reload your weapon with the last of its ammo as a bunch of Xenomorphs start to surround. No one to come to your aid either, so it all boils down to how good of a shot you are.
This is done via motion controls, which the game handles pretty well, outside of a few irks I’ll go over shortly. In terms of how the game plays and handles, this is one of the better first-person shooters I’ve played in VR. General inventory placement on your body follows traditional setups, with your pistol holstered near your lower right side, primary weapons over your shoulders, with grenades, health items, and motion tracker on your hands and arm slots. You can access additional tools by simply pressing a single button, which brings more inventory items into view. It is very easily accessible, and the controller haptics work nicely to the effect that you can feel where your hand is on your in-game body without having to look down.
Overall, the gameplay and motion controls are excellent, with standing and seated positions fully supported.
One Constant Bug Hunt
One of the biggest worries during the initial reveal of Alien: Rogue Incursion of the performance. The debut trailer didn’t exactly have the best performance when it came to framerate, and being so close to release, it was odd that they would show such an evident issue for its debut.
So, going into this, I expected the final product would have reflected that, but thankfully, at least on PC, that’s not the case. Running on a Nvidia RTX 4090 GPU, the game ran flawlessly smoothly in terms of framerates. Even playing via Quest Link wirelessly, with everything cranked to the max, it played buttery smooth. I suspect the PSVR 2 version will play similarly, with the visuals toned down. There’s no Quest version, not until next year.
However, that’s not to say that the experience itself was perfect because there are plenty of bugs, and I don’t mean the Xenomorphs, that can hamper the experience.
For one, I had a constant visual bug that kept throwing a bright flashing blue light whenever my character model moved in a certain way. It might have been some lighting placed on the character’s helmet, and the tracking isn’t aligning properly with my height. Whatever it was, it was an annoyance to deal with.
Your character also has arms versus floating hands. I like this; it helps immerse you in the experience more than seeing two floating hands. But I did notice that the arms would get stuck on some things, which would cause the audio to freak out. Sometimes, they would prevent you from moving your hands, getting in the way of certain actions. I’ve even gotten stuck in the environment because I’ve had my arms glitch out on me, forcing me to reload my save. At one point, I couldn’t reach or climb anything because my right arm wanted to fold into itself, leaving me to work with my hand sticking out of my elbow in the game. I’ve had that happen a few times throughout my playthrough, and there is nothing more frustrating than having to start an entire section again.
That brings me to one of the biggest issues I have with the game: the save system. You only have one slot per playthrough, and it’s all manually saved via panic room terminals. It’s precisely how the old Resident Evil games did their typewriters. I don’t mind this system because it reminds me to save frequently, but I dislike that there’s no autosaving on top of it or no checkpoint system. There have been countless times where I gave up playing because I had been playing through a section for more than 30 minutes without passing by a savepoint, only to end up getting killed by a group of Xenos. Redoing the whole section again was enough to tell me I needed to step back. It’s one thing to power through it on a flatscreen, but to go through all the motions again in VR. It can get very tiring, no matter how enjoyable the experience is. It’s enough to hamper the overall experience because it can become repetitive, having to redo stuff repeatedly. It made me dial the difficulty down to make at least redoing those parts a bit more bearable.
Game Over, Man! GAME OVER!
I highly recommend Alien: Rogue Incursion if you’re an Alien franchise fan or just a fan of horror VR games in general. While it does have its flaws—some of which could likely be addressed in future updates—the core experience remains gripping and thoroughly enjoyable. Its haunting atmosphere and intense gameplay deliver a thrilling and terrifyingly fun adventure that captures the franchise’s essence. There’s room for improvement, something we hope Survios listens to, but overall, Alien: Rogue Incursion is a solid VR experience.
Score: 7.5/10
Pros:
Excellent gameplay – The gunplay is fun, and interacting with things around the world can be too.
Visuals/performance – The game really feels like it takes place in the Alien universe, with its near identical movie-set-like locations. It helps that it runs very smoothly on a PC.
The Xenomorphs feel menacing and downright scary.
The sound design is fantastic.
Cons:
Some very distracting bugs can happen, from visual to audible to even motion tracking getting messed up.
The lack of a proper checkpoint system makes dying punishing, and not in a good way. Having to redo an entire 30-40 minute section is not fun.
The story ends on a pretty lackluster note. Overall, it’s not the most memorable of stories out there.
A gamer at heart, James has been working for MP1st for the last decade to do exactly what he loves, writing about video games and having fun doing it. Growing up in the 90's gaming has been in his DNA since the days of NES. One day he hopes to develop his own game.
While Arrowhead Game Studios has been very active in supporting Helldivers 2, one thing players haven’t seen since the game was released earlier this year is crossovers with other gaming franchises and entertainment brands. That changes today, as the studio surprise-launched the Killzone crossover content.
This is the game’s first-ever crossover collaboration, and it fits the theme quite nicely. While we aren’t taking down helghans, we do have some sweet gear available in the Superstore available now.
Helldivers 2 X Killzone Crossover Content Now Live
The content available now include:
Armor Set – AC-1 Dutiful
Primary Weapon – StA-52 Assault Rifle
Player Banner – Strength in Our Arms
Cape – Strength in Our Arms
Player Title – Assault Infantry
In addition to the items in the Superstore, Arrowhead also has an addition Killzone 2 reward to all players depending on their success in the Galactic War.
With Guerrilla Games super focused on the Horizon franchise, it looks like this is the best Killzone fans can hope for when it comes to the franchise being resurrected. The latest mainline Killzone game released was Killzone; Shadow Fall released in 2013 as part of the PS4’s launch lineup. While it was reviewed well, Sony doesn’t seem to have any plans to release a new Kilzone game anytime soon, as the franchise has remained dormant since then.
HexWork has no plans to spend time off for the holidays it seems, as the studio has now released Lords of the Fallen update 1.062 for v1.7.19! Available now on consoles and PC, the patch brings improvements to Pieta’s blood animation, more roll refinements that was kickstarted as part of last week’s patch and more.
Lords of the Fallen’s New Update for December 18 Brings Another Round of Improvements
Players are now able to interact with both Vestiges and Umbral exit points when enemies are close by
Pieta Blood Improvements
By popular demand, we’ve made improvements to the blood animation in the cutscene following defeat of Pieta
Roll Refinements
Last week, we introduced a first wave of enhancements to the dash and roll for greater player control and responsiveness. Based on your feedback, we’ve made further improvements this week to ensure the evasion mechanic feels as satisfying and effective as ever
Vigor Descriptor Fix
Small bug fix to ensure vigor auto pickup descriptor shows in settings menu
While Ubisoft already announced that XDefiant is sunsetting in June 2025, that doesn’t mean we’re not getting any new content. Today, the last seasonal content drop for the free-to-play shooter is out, and console gamers will see it as XDefiant update 1.000.032.
The developers tag this patch as Y1S3 and this brings three new factions into the game. There are also new maps, with some planned for later seasons but released today. There’s also the Prestige system available starting today, and just a ton more.
XDefiant’s Final Patch for Seasonal Content Now Live as Update Version 1.000.032
Hiding in plain sight through the centuries, the Assassins have waged a clandestine war against their ancient enemies, the Templars, to safeguard human freedom. Assassins combine rigorous combat training, unconventional weaponry, and a sixth sense to track and take out their targets. Their signature Hidden Blade is a one-hit melee elimination.
The Assassins receive combat guidance from Rebecca Crane, the technical genius who developed the Animus 2.0, an advanced model of the machine that lets Assassins relive genetic memories. She guided some of the Order’s most well-known Assassins, including Desmond Miles. With Crane’s assistance, the Assassins work in the dark to serve the light, combating oppression with lethal force.
New Faction: Wolves
Ex-special forces gone rogue, Wolves employ an arsenal of Skell Tech drones for both offense and defense. The Wolves trait allows the pack to be a sight unseen, undetected by AI abilities and devices. Their Legion drone acts like a homing proximity mine, while the Stolas is effectively a mobile turret. And their ultra, Drone Swarm, is the last word on area denial.
New Faction: Blood Dragon
Super-deadly cyber commandos from a dark future where cyborgs and mutants collide. Use your cyberstrength, throw deadly shuriken, strike with your shock punch, or use the Killstar laser to deal massive damage.
Fixes and Changes:
Cleaners
Fixed a couple of glitches with the Cleaners’ Incinerator Drone when Hijacked by a DedSec player:
The Drone no longer explodes next to the player who Hijacked it.
The Drone now leaves a complete fire trail back to its point of origin.
Echelon
No longer have a 50% reduction in flash grenade duration debuff
Phantoms
AEGIS – Addressed issue with shots not registering at point blank range.
Blitz – Increased movement speed to truly “Blitz” your opponent.
DedSec
Spiderbots 2.0 – We got the message. Spiderbots, DedSec’s infuriatingly face-adjacent electro-minions, are now less in your face and more of an area-of-effect threat. When activated, Spiderbots will now dutifully follow their deploying player for 30 seconds, emitting an electromagnetic pulse that disrupts all enemy equipment within a 10-meter radius. And with that, the era of Spiderbot facehugging comes to a close.
Highwaymen
M79
Fixed an issue that would lock the skill when activating right after a weapon swap
This should now have damage dealt while on different elevations
Improved handling and reload speed
Cooldown reduced to 40s
Buzzsaw Launcher
Increased ammo count
Addressed issue with damage inconsistency
Maps
New S3 Maps
Mykonos (Arena): Experience the island of Mykonos like the ancient Greeks did, except with more rooftop firefights, in this new map for Season 3. Your itinerary includes sprinting by market stalls, seeking roof access for the high ground, and jumping across boat decks in high-risk flanking maneuvers.
El Barrio (Arena)
Jorvik (Linear)
Animus Anomaly (Tactical): Ancient worlds collide in Animus Anomaly, a new corridor-style map for Season 3. Hunker down among Viking castles, flank around the waterways of ancient Greece, or go out with a boom in the new Defuse tactical variant of BOMB!.
New Future Maps – These maps were scheduled for later seasons but were too much fun not to release!
Arena
Carlyle’s Lab
Enchanted Forest
Killstar Temple
Razia’s Realm
Skell City
West End
Linear
Skell Complex
Esperanza
Himalaya
Fixes and Changes:
Adjustments were done to invisible collision and areas where players were able to jump to places that are out of bounds for the map.
Adjustments to some maps where scrap turrets were also being placed where they’re not supposed to be.
DUMBO has decked the halls to be more festive for the holidays
Players can no longer climb and leap their way into what was supposed to be an inaccessible area of some maps, where they were using El Remedio to heal allies and doing other sneaky exploits.
Many maps have undergone improvements to mantling which should now be fixed in several map locations that previously were not.
Map voting improvements
Game Modes
New Modes:
Defuse
This season sees the debut of Defuse, a tactical and slower-paced version of BOMB!. Teams take turns planting and defending bomb sites, yet all players only have one life. Defuse is designed for play on a new “corridor” type map, in this case the Animus Anomaly created exclusively for this category.
Vs Bots
There’s now a Vs Bots option where you can face off against varying levels of computers. You’ll even earn XP by battling bots. Although at a slower pace with human enemies.
Lum Hunt
Catch them if you can, Lums (beings of pure energy possessing of a mindbogglingly sunny disposition) have been placed around the Enchanted Forest map in this variant of Hot Shot. Also available in Private Matches.
Tilt
Now available in our Linear playlists, this mode is a simultaneous battle over who can push around Carlos the most, poor robot.
Turbo XD
Super jump your way to victory in this gravity defying mode.
New Party Modes Playlist
From one shot kill, to headshots only, and even no skills allowed, there’s a little something for everyone in this playlist. With no one here to make names for them, we wish you the very best of luck to figure them out.
Fixes and Changes:
Team balancing overhaul to ensure the fairest matches.
BOMB!
Several quality-of-life improvements to BOMB! spectator cam.
Planting and Defusing behavior improved not to conflict with other game features like looking at the scoreboard.
Private Match
Fixed an issue where the lobby menu would become blank after another player accepts a private match party invite.
Now allows you to select the server you wish to play on.
Ranked
Ranked BOMB!
With Ability Restrictions still in place, we took it 1 step further and you will only be allowed to use your ability once per life.
Round timer changed in Ranked BOMB! from 2 mins to 1min 30s, plant and defuse times adjusted, and Round 11 will go to highest scoring team.
Top 500 Leaderboard
Season 3 sees the debut of the Top 500 leaderboard, which showcases the top 500 players globally each season as they progress through the ranks until the season’s end. These top players are displayed in descending order of total Rank Points earned in the current season. Highlighting a player on the Leaderboard displays the following stats:
Current rank insignia and RP total.
Win/Loss: Player’s ratio of wins to losses.
Kill/Death: Player’s ratio of kills to deaths.
Average Score/Minute: Player’s average score per minute.
MVPs: Number of times the player earned MVP.
Ranked Emblem in HUD
Proudly display your ranked tier right on your heads-up display for all to see.
New Ranked Rewards
New S3 specific Ranked Rewards are available (to everyone).
Fixes and Changes:
Matchmaking ranges have been disabled and join in progress has been enabled so that matches are easier to find.
Reduced the forfeit timer duration from 20s to 5s.
Players are no longer pulled out of active Ranked game sessions after accepting the Party invite for a Private Match.
Added a new menu experience, now players will be able to search for games and jump back to the Ranked menu tab to view rewards, info, and the top 500 leaderboard.
Removed Domination and CTF from Ranked playlists.
Weapons
Assault
FAMAS – The FAMAS is a burst-fire rifle like the M16A4 but with faster ADS time, movement, and rate of fire. It is slower to reload, however, and inflicts less hurt per shot.
G36K
Sub-Machine Gun
M1928
Light Machine Gun
MG5 – Despite its shorter range and lower ammo capacity than other belt-fed LMGs, the MG5 with its higher rate of fire makes it a powerful and versatile option for those who can master its challenging recoil.
Marksman
M1A – An agile warhorse built for medium-range battles, the M1A offers a speedy rate of fire but deals less per-shot damage compared to other marksman rifles.
Sniper Rifle
SRS
Pistol
Diceros
Fixes and Changes:
Sawed-off Shotgun Balance Adjustment
The range and damage potential of the Sawed-Off Shotgun have been adjusted to better focus it on its intended role as a short-range kill-finisher and prevent it from killing full-health opponents with a single shot.
Short Range reduced from 8m -> 6m
Medium Range reduced from 12m -> 10m
Short Range Damage reduced from 12 -> 11
Bullets Per Round reduced from 12 -> 9
Tweaked smoke grenade effects so that some components of cosmetic skins will no longer be visible through the smoke, while also improving the size, shape, and transparency of the smoke particles and radius of effect.
Adjusted the camera shake so that now it is based on distance to explosion. Removed friendly explosion camera shake.
Attachments
Tapered Barrel
Introduced the Tapered Barrel, an attachment for most weapons that increases handling speed but reduces damage. Here are the pluses and minuses:
Pros:
25 percent boost to sprint-out time
15 percent ADS speed increase
5 percent movement speed increase
Cons:
20 percent short-range damage decrease
20 percent medium-range damage decrease
10 percent ADS walking speed decrease
In other words, this barrel will help you scoot around the map at a zippier pace, but you’ll likely need to land more shots than normal to get kills.
New Reticle Customization
New for Season 3: Customized reticules. Players can unlock new reticule shapes and adjust their colors (a helpful feature for players with colorblindness). Custom reticules will be tied to individual loadouts.
Fixes and Changes:
Fixed a graphical glitch that let players see parts of their weapon barrel through the Reflex and Holographic sights.
Fixed a lagging magazine when player reloads weapons.
Fixed floating when using left-handed skills and reloads.
Fixed a scope crosshair missing when player ADS in spectating mode.
Several skins have had their sights adjusted to match the base weapon being used.
Various visual improvements
Progression
Prestige System!
Introducing Prestige, an optional new progression system that rewards long-haul dedication with flashy cosmetics and extravagant emblems that showcase your experience to other players. Available to anyone who has completed their Base Challenges, Prestige resets player progress in exchange for an eye-catching Prestige Emblem. All starter and owned weaponry are locked – except the M4, M9, and frag grenade – but can be earned as players earn XP and Prestige Tokens to access their original gear plus new weapons until they complete the current Prestige Tier and acquire the next eye-catching emblem. Players can opt out of Prestige at any time and recover their weapons, or they can commit to unlocking the final Prestige Emblem, the ultimate display of dedication.
Badges!
Badges are part of a mysterious new challenge-based progression system where players earn Badges for performing impressive feats and engaging with the game in creative ways. All Badge challenges have hidden requirements, encouraging players to go online and engage with the XDefiant community. Badges can also evolve, requiring players to complete the challenge a second or third time but with more challenging requirements for success.
Faction Mastery!
Allows players to level up characters, earn prestigious rewards, and track their progression within the game
Pristine Weapon Mastery Skin
A new Pristine Weapon Mastery skin is unlocked at weapon level 50 as an early reward to encourage players to pursue Weapon Mastery. These new Pristine skins are like unmarred, fresh-from-the-factory versions of these weapons. Pristine skins are retroactively applied to any weapons that have already reached level 50.
Daily Rewards and Credits
Players can now earn various rewards just for logging into the game. Bigger rewards are granted every 5th and 10th login. The days do not have to be consecutive.
Credits are a brand new in-game currency. Use Credits to buy cosmetics from previous seasons, giving you the opportunity to get any skins you may have missed back then, but you have everything now, so that’s nice
Fixes and Changes:
Some Challenges, particularly those related to faction characters, weren’t progressing on the main menu, but now they are.
Audio
Battle announcer lines have been tweaked for their frequency of play:
Lines announcing death streaks (or dying multiple times without killing an enemy) will trigger less often (now players need to die five times rather than three, and the death streaks will only trigger during the second half of a match).
Lines related to suffering from fire damage (from the Purifier, (Firebomb, Incendiary Drone–really anything involving the Cleaners) will trigger less frequently.
Phantoms – Blitz – Now has sounds for blocking a melee attack and for attacking others with a Blitz Shield.
GSK – Hardhat – Audio improved for impact confirm headshot
Highwaymen – M79 – Now has sounds for hit confirm and impact confirm with the M79.
Other various audio improvements.
Miscellaneous
New Assassin’s video on the main menu
New Career Stats page
New Store Layout
New Weapon Inspect
Input-based matchmaking is now disabled by default for faster matchmaking times.
Fixed various crashes and errors
That’s about it. This should be the last patch for the game, barring anything gets broken that needs to be fixed.
It’s been a fun ride, XDefiant! Hopefully, the devs bounce back stronger than ever from this and release a new game that blows our socks off.
Two weeks ago, Ubisoft released the Y9S4 patch, bringing full crossplay to Rainbow Six Siege. If you’re a console player and you primarily want to match up against other console players, Ubisoft has made a little reset to make things a wee bit easier.
Rainbow Six Siege update 2.91 on PS4/XB1, which appears as download version 1.000.096 on PS5/XSX, is a hotfix with a short list of changes made.
Rainbow Six Siege’s Update 2.91 Resets Console Default Setting for Crossplay
The default crossplay setting will be reset to “Consoles Preferred” for the majority of console players.
Grim – Kawan Hive Launcher
Grim will have the correct amount of ammo for the Kawan Hive Launcher (5).
AI Text Chat Moderation
A bug was recently fixed which caused messages to be removed (UI only, no impact) if too many were sent in a row. Thanks for letting us know about the tweaks that we need to make. Player collaboration is of high importance for us.
Just the other day, the Freeze for All Permafrost event kicked off for all players, bringing a new game mode, cosmetics, and more. Check out the event details below for those who haven’t logged in recently.
Rainbow Six Siege Freeze for All Permafrost Event Details
Schedule: Dec. 17 to January 6, 2025
New icy game mode: Eight players face off on a modded, winterized version of the Hereford Base map called The Arctic Workshop. It’s all the fast-paced, arcade action of a free-for-all deathmatch, but with an added twist to help you speed your way to victory. Fallen enemies drop Frozen Souls; collect them for bonus points to be the first player to earn 40 points, or to rack up the most points at the end of the eight minute timer. As a new addition from last year’s event, you’ll have infinite respawns, giving you the chance to get revenge on the Operator who downed you, and making sure you’ll be part of every action-packed second.
Players will be able to unlock free rewards throughout the event, and there is a also a free cosmetic Collection pack given away to players simply by just logging in during the event.
Will we get one more patch before the year is done? Chances are, this is the last one before January rolls in, but if we do get one, we’ll let our readers know.
Following the Winter Wonder patch for Astro Bot that’s supposed to cap off the year for Team Asobi, the studio released Astro Bot update 1.011 today, and it’s a super small download clocking in at less than 100MB. This unannounced update should bring in fixes and nothing new in terms of content.
Astro Bot Gets Mysterious Update 1.011 on December 18
Team Asobi has not said anything about today’s patch just yet, and chances are, we won’t hear anything about it if recent patch for fixes are anything to go by. We’re looking for new bug fixes, and once we spot any, we’ll update the article with the info.
If anyone notices something that got changed, leave a comment below and let us know. Even the community is stumped as to what got added/fixed, and we’re guessing it’s some minor bug that somehow surfaced with the Winter Wonder update.
Will we see more Astro Bot content from Team Asobi in 2025? I wouldn’t count it out given the game did win The Game Awards’ highly-coveted Game of the Year award.
Based on the last credit mentions of characters set to appear in Astro Bot, we have already received everything listed there. Of course, there is a chance the devs changed it, so the credits won’t spoil any new conte,t and time will tell if that’s the case.
Epic Games is about to bring the holiday festivities into Fortnite with the launch of update 4.51 available for download now on all platforms! This is for the v33.11 patch, which brings Winterfest 2024 to the game alongside other items.
There’s a lot to take in, so jump right in the known issues, datamined content and more below. For the latest on the game’s server status for today, head on here.
Fortnite Update 4.51 Brings Winterfest 2024
Epic Games has not shared the official patch notes for this update yet, but we will update this post as soon as we can when more details arrive. In the meantime, we have posted the game’s known issues and datamined content.
Here are the known issues from the game’s Trello Board.
Known Issues:
General Top Issues
Low-resolution textures on Nintendo Switch
Nintendo Switch players encountering storage space issues
PC Crash With Hardware Ray Tracing
Incorrect Emote order in the Emote Wheel.
Players cannot close the emote wheel without selecting an emote
Unable to change the style of Outfits with customizable elements.
Built-In Emotes do not play in Creative / UEFN Experiences.
Jam Emotes may not function properly in Team Rumble and might not work in Battle Royale after a Team Rumble match.
Splitscreen Issue when player 2 logs out.
Battle Royale/Reload/OG Top Issues
Daigo issuing incorrect Duel rewards.
Players may get stuck in “Toggle Walk” mode at times.
Players are pushed at high speed when jumping while underneath stairs.
Void Oni Mask teleport may fail if the player is swimming.
Can’t edit structures while a DBNO (knocked) player is nearby.
Some Outfits may change their rarity when scrolling in the Locker.
Players may float briefly after using Typhoon Blade’s Cyclone Slash upon exiting a vehicle.
Ballistic Top Issues
Battle Royale Building UI may appear in Spectate Mode.
UI may disappear from the top of the screen after spamming the “Inventory” and “Buy” buttons on keyboard.
Weapon may switch to the left side of the screen after joining an ongoing match.
Players who join after the Buy Phase may not obtain a Flex Gadget.
Walking is not silent.
Combat Report might be inaccurate.
Player’s character may drop the items and disappear from the post-match screen after exiting the game.
A grey bubble texture may appear when affected by a Flashbang grenade.
LEGO Fortnite Top Issues
Inconsistent pop-up warning when activating the Item Spawner and Free Crafting settings.
Logging out of Lego Fortnite Odyssey with an equipped Totem of the Immortal, causes the Totem to disappear from player inventory
A prompt to flip a vehicle no longer appears when a vehicle is flipped.
Floor items may not be placed on the second floor.
Unable to place Decor or Furniture items in Houses or Lots.
When claiming a Lot, the “Back” and “Close” buttons may not appear if Text Chat is open.
Tricksters may not be able to place the Banana Peel prank.
Legendary Forge is not unlocking
The Backpack icon is not present on the Map or Compass if it’s dropped too far from the respawn point or in a cave.
The Storm King’s Portal may not be reactivated once the Storm King is defeated.
In dungeons, the Thunder Lord boss may teleport inside rocks.
Storm King’s health bar may display incorrectly.
Invisible collision in Phase 1 after being eliminated in Phase 2 of the Storm King fight.
Enemies’ health bars may not appear at times.
Stuck when exiting the Crusher.
Players may get stuck in a cannon if its damaged or falls into water while operating it.
Consumable buff timers can be overwritten when eating another consumable with a buff
Villagers exploring with players may destroy structures while trying to harvest.
Bottom of HUD can disappear after using macrobinoculars.
There is no indication of which direction some furniture is being placed
The Swag Shot emote is not correctly translating on the Chalk Board
Cleared areas in the Rebel Outpost don’t complete
Rocket Racing Top Issues
[Switch] Non Party Leaders may experience matchmaking errors when attempting to queue for Casual mode while in a party.
Locker’s Vehicles – SUV/Truck and Sports Cars sections changes to a different background color when navigating through the cosmetics options
Vehicle appears blurry at start of race
Players may observe extremely bright lights.
Fortnite Festival Top Issues
Audio Stuttering On Switch After Extended Play
Jam Stage Mixers – Players need to equip Jam Tracks before hopping into the Jam Stage to access songs and start making music.
Player 2, 3 or 4 unable to take control as Player 1.
Jam Track preview continues to play outside the Music Library.
Some players may be stuck on the “Choose a Song” HUD and are unable to ready up.
Save the World Top Issues
Placing a Trap on a building, upgrading the building, then leaving the zone – causes the Trap and the materials used to disappear.
Wall Traps can be destroyed by Husks.
Structures cannot be edited and Traps cannot be placed on structures that B.A.S.E or depleted Traps were previously on.
Pressing the button to open the “Mission Activation Vote” UI may not work as intended.
Tornadoes may destroy Traps in Wargames or Endurance runs.
Husks may phase through built floor/ceiling sections from ramps.
Stuck in first-person camera view after playing a Ballistic match.
Mission Alerts may reset incorrectly.
Fortnite Mobile Top Issues
Stamina Bar Location Change
The screen may flicker on certain Android devices.
Unable to pick up ammo or items while using a Medkit/Shield Potion.
Fortnite v3,11 Datamined Content:
SKIBIDI TOILET x FORTNITE COMING TOMORROW 😭
• Plungerman Skin (1,500 VB) & BUNDLE (2,200 VB)
• Skibidi Toilet Back Bling (600 VB)
• Plungerman’s Plunger Pickaxe (800 VB)
• Info by @SpushFNBRpic.twitter.com/UoV3GqLWrq
Epic Games has released Fortnite update 1.000.162 for version 33.11 today. This update brings the big Winterfest Event to the game as well as the annoying Skibidi Toilet collab! Check out more details down below.
Winterfest Event Comes to Fortnite Update 1.000.162
Epic Games has not shared the official patch notes for this update yet, but we will update this post as soon as we can when more details arrive. In the meantime, we have posted the game’s known issues and datamined content.
Here are the known issues from the game’s Trello Board.
Known Issues:
General Top Issues
Low-resolution textures on Nintendo Switch
Nintendo Switch players encountering storage space issues
PC Crash With Hardware Ray Tracing
Incorrect Emote order in the Emote Wheel.
Players cannot close the emote wheel without selecting an emote
Unable to change the style of Outfits with customizable elements.
Built-In Emotes do not play in Creative / UEFN Experiences.
Jam Emotes may not function properly in Team Rumble and might not work in Battle Royale after a Team Rumble match.
Splitscreen Issue when player 2 logs out.
Battle Royale/Reload/OG Top Issues
Daigo issuing incorrect Duel rewards.
Players may get stuck in “Toggle Walk” mode at times.
Players are pushed at high speed when jumping while underneath stairs.
Void Oni Mask teleport may fail if the player is swimming.
Can’t edit structures while a DBNO (knocked) player is nearby.
Some Outfits may change their rarity when scrolling in the Locker.
Players may float briefly after using Typhoon Blade’s Cyclone Slash upon exiting a vehicle.
Ballistic Top Issues
Battle Royale Building UI may appear in Spectate Mode.
UI may disappear from the top of the screen after spamming the “Inventory” and “Buy” buttons on keyboard.
Weapon may switch to the left side of the screen after joining an ongoing match.
Players who join after the Buy Phase may not obtain a Flex Gadget.
Walking is not silent.
Combat Report might be inaccurate.
Player’s character may drop the items and disappear from the post-match screen after exiting the game.
A grey bubble texture may appear when affected by a Flashbang grenade.
LEGO Fortnite Top Issues
Inconsistent pop-up warning when activating the Item Spawner and Free Crafting settings.
Logging out of Lego Fortnite Odyssey with an equipped Totem of the Immortal, causes the Totem to disappear from player inventory
A prompt to flip a vehicle no longer appears when a vehicle is flipped.
Floor items may not be placed on the second floor.
Unable to place Decor or Furniture items in Houses or Lots.
When claiming a Lot, the “Back” and “Close” buttons may not appear if Text Chat is open.
Tricksters may not be able to place the Banana Peel prank.
Legendary Forge is not unlocking
The Backpack icon is not present on the Map or Compass if it’s dropped too far from the respawn point or in a cave.
The Storm King’s Portal may not be reactivated once the Storm King is defeated.
In dungeons, the Thunder Lord boss may teleport inside rocks.
Storm King’s health bar may display incorrectly.
Invisible collision in Phase 1 after being eliminated in Phase 2 of the Storm King fight.
Enemies’ health bars may not appear at times.
Stuck when exiting the Crusher.
Players may get stuck in a cannon if its damaged or falls into water while operating it.
Consumable buff timers can be overwritten when eating another consumable with a buff
Villagers exploring with players may destroy structures while trying to harvest.
Bottom of HUD can disappear after using macrobinoculars.
There is no indication of which direction some furniture is being placed
The Swag Shot emote is not correctly translating on the Chalk Board
Cleared areas in the Rebel Outpost don’t complete
Rocket Racing Top Issues
[Switch] Non Party Leaders may experience matchmaking errors when attempting to queue for Casual mode while in a party.
Locker’s Vehicles – SUV/Truck and Sports Cars sections changes to a different background color when navigating through the cosmetics options
Vehicle appears blurry at start of race
Players may observe extremely bright lights.
Fortnite Festival Top Issues
Audio Stuttering On Switch After Extended Play
Jam Stage Mixers – Players need to equip Jam Tracks before hopping into the Jam Stage to access songs and start making music.
Player 2, 3 or 4 unable to take control as Player 1.
Jam Track preview continues to play outside the Music Library.
Some players may be stuck on the “Choose a Song” HUD and are unable to ready up.
Save the World Top Issues
Placing a Trap on a building, upgrading the building, then leaving the zone – causes the Trap and the materials used to disappear.
Wall Traps can be destroyed by Husks.
Structures cannot be edited and Traps cannot be placed on structures that B.A.S.E or depleted Traps were previously on.
Pressing the button to open the “Mission Activation Vote” UI may not work as intended.
Tornadoes may destroy Traps in Wargames or Endurance runs.
Husks may phase through built floor/ceiling sections from ramps.
Stuck in first-person camera view after playing a Ballistic match.
Mission Alerts may reset incorrectly.
Fortnite Mobile Top Issues
Stamina Bar Location Change
The screen may flicker on certain Android devices.
Unable to pick up ammo or items while using a Medkit/Shield Potion.
Fortnite v3,11 Datamined Content:
SKIBIDI TOILET x FORTNITE COMING TOMORROW 😭
• Plungerman Skin (1,500 VB) & BUNDLE (2,200 VB)
• Skibidi Toilet Back Bling (600 VB)
• Plungerman’s Plunger Pickaxe (800 VB)
• Info by @SpushFNBRpic.twitter.com/UoV3GqLWrq
Epic Games has taken the Fortnite servers down, and compared to past maintenance outages, this one is happening much later. Players will be able to download patch v33.11 during the downtime, which is expected to last at least a few hours.
Fortnite Servers Undergoes Maintenance for a New Patch
The downtime starts at 7 am ET/4 am PT, and should last for a few hours. While Epic Games has not specified how long it’ll be before the servers are back up again, we’re estimating it will take at least 2-3 hours; if past maintenance periods are anything to go by.
Regarding the patch, we expect a few bug fixes to be included alongside the new content. We do know this will bring the Fortnite winter event to players, as Epic Games announced this on social media:
Patch 5.1.0 for The Finals has been released today, and this brings a holiday event called Snowball Blitz. This is update 1.000.066 (PS4 version 1.04), and several balance changes have also been made on top of the addition of the new event. Read on for the patch notes below.
The Finals Update 1.000.066 Adds Snowball Blitz and More
’TIS THE SEASON
We’re sliding into the holiday season with a brand new holiday event: Snowball Blitz!
Get your mittens on contestants, it’s going to be frosty in Snowy Monaco! You’ll be taking part in a good ol’ fashioned Snowball Fight! Team up for a head-to-head snow brawl in this 5v5 TDM-style fight for victory. The first team to reach 30K wins and the only way to earn cash is through eliminations!
Everyone goes in with a fixed loadout, but the weapon of choice for every build is snowballs! Rewards are on the line, so join the skirmish and complete your contracts to earn all the spoils of wintery wartime! Snowball Blitz will be around for the next two weeks!
Let’s keep this fight clean and fun: no rocks, no ice, no telling mom, and don’t aim for the eyes!
We’ve also got some bug fixes and balances coming your way this week! Most notably, we’ve removed the Lockbolt Launcher’s ability to latch onto objectives, for now. We’ve had a lot of fun this week launching the Cashbox into outer space and dragging the Cashout Station through the streets of Bernal, but we think this functionality might be a bit too OP. We’ll send it back to Santa’s workshop and see if he can fix it up.
Not festive enough for you? Check out this week’s Store:
Balance Changes
Gadgets
Lockbolt
Disabled the ability for the Lockbolt to attach to objectives, such as the Cashbox and Cashout Station
Dev Note: We love how creative you’ve already gotten with using the Lockbolt since it launched, but we feel some of the use cases discovered are a little too impactful when it comes to game mode pacing and defending objectives. As a result, we’re temporarily disabling the Lockbolt’s ability to latch on to objectives, while we spend some time to make sure they behave more appropriately when attached. Hopefully, we can turn this functionality back on later in the season, that is our plan at least.
Specializations
Cloaking Device
Decreased the max duration of invisibility when fully stationary from 133s to 27s
Content and Bug Fixes
Audio
General
Fixed an issue where Dede would sometimes not choose the correct voice lines
Re-enabled the missing “click” sound when selecting the matchmaking button
Jukebox
Fixed an issue where the jukebox would not always continue to the new track if the current track ended when going into a map load
Characters
Fixed an issue where some contestants’ heads could occasionally become invisible
Clubs
Fixed an issue where the member list would be unsorted when you first enter the Club screen
Fixed an issue that allowed players to send or join Club party requests while matchmaking or waiting in a private lobby
Added functionality that makes the Club requests/invites list scrollable
Added Club tags in leaderboards
Contracts
Fixed an issue with the ‘Play 2 Rounds of Quick Cash’ contract not progressing correctly
PS4
Fixed an issue where players could appear in a T-pose at the start of the round on PlayStation 4
Gadgets
Lockbolt
Fixed an issue where the Gravity Vortex and Anti-Gravity Cube could break the chains connecting players to the Lockbolt, freeing them early
Game Modes
Fixed an issue where Cashout Stations would sometimes not accept Cashboxes and where the second Vault would sometimes fail to appear
Fixed an issue where the respawn timer could sometimes show the wrong numbers
Fixed an issue where the HUD would occasionally disappear after reconnecting
Gifting
Added gifting for bundles and single items inside bundles Dev Note: We have noticed that some bundles are not showing up as giftable within the outfit customization screen. We’re looking into a fix for this.
Maps
General
Fixed an issue that caused large amounts of smoke to appear on maps
Updated and polished the highlighted players hologram image
Fixed various issues where the images of players featured on a billboard could be clipped or stretched
Bernal
Fixed issue where the VAIIYA Suspended Structure wouldn’t fall even when enough hooks were destroyed
Fixed issue where the lights in the DISSUN Suspended Structure were too bright around smoke/fog
Adjusted the height of the planters in Small Park (DISSUN) sector for smoother traversal
Fixed an issue where the corkscrew platform in the Theater sector could desync
Fixed an issue where a wall of the dome on top of the Chapel was missing collision
Fixed gaps between railings blocking bullets
Fixed various issues with ‘level of detail’ assets around the map
Practice Range
Fixed a collision issue allowing contestants to escape the practice area
Sights & Optics
Fixed an issue where the size of crosshairs in red dot and holographic sights would not be respected for certain aspect ratios and FOV settings
Stability & Performance
Fixed a crash that could occur on PlayStation 5 when loading into a round
UI
Fixed an issue where players could become unable to respond to any pings
Added a backplate to the chat in the main menu to make it easier to read
VFX
Added VFX to prop destruction for multiple objects on Bernal
Reworked tree destruction on Bernal
Our readers will be informed once a newer update is out for the game soon.
Arrowhead Game Studios has released Helldivers update 1.002.003 for PC and PS5 players yet again this week following yesterday’s patch. The main purpose of today’s patch is to fix the game’s connection and matchmaking issues. Read on for the full and official patch notes down below.
Matchmaking Issues Fixed in Helldivers 2 Update 1.002.003
Overview
Crash Fixes
Matchmaking & connection improvements
Miscellaneous fixes
Fixes
Matchmaking & Connection Issues:
Matchmaking improvements to reduce wait times.
Addressed an issue which forced disconnections in specific gameplay conditions during Illuminate missions
Crash Fixes and Soft-locks:
Fix for a 100% crash affecting a subset of players within range of Illuminate towers during Ion Storms
Miscellaneous fixes
Fix Siege Ready armor passive not affecting ammo pools on initial dives when joining an ongoing mission.
When a newer Helldivers 2 update is released, we will be sure to let our readers know about the latest details.
For those playing Marvel Rivals who are thinking of playing on more than one platform, chances are you want your skins, items, and level to carry over, right? While that’s not possible now, it should be in the future, as NetEase has confirmed that Marvel Rivals cross-progression is being developed, though there are hurdles to it, and isn’t as easy as flicking a switch.
This was confirmed by Marvel Rivals Creative Director Guangyun “Guangguang” Chen in an interview with Dot Esports.
Marvel Rivals Cross-Progression Feature Is Being Worked on by NetEase
“Cross-progression involves a lot of platform-specific rules, we’re still looking at it and how to solve it, Once the team is ready, once we’ve figured it out, we’ll be sharing to everyone and players will be the first to know.”
While that bit of Marvel Rivals news is good news, some might be disappointed to know that role queue, which locks a team’s composition to ensure a balance of damage dealers, tanks, and healers, isn’t in the cards right now.
Chen also confirmed this and explained the reasoning behind not implementing it in the hero shooter.
Marve Rivals Role Queue Not Considered Right Now by NetEase
Right now, we’re not considering a role queue..The team’s goal is to offer a wider variety of team composition through team-up skills and their own designs, to let people play their Marvel superheroes rather than limiting players to choosing a role.”
Chen also notes that in their data, things are looking fine, though they are monitoring it, and things could be different on the competitive side of things.
“From the data we’re seeing in our back end, things are going pretty solid.. We want people to have a Marvel experience where they’re free to select what they want. [Since the closed beta test] things have been rational and within expectations.
While some might favor a role queue to make sure every team isn’t just full of Duelists (damage dealers), I do understand where NetEase is coming from. Having said that, it is a pain to play the game sometimes given you are “forced” to play as a Strategist (healer) since no one else will. This is my predicament now, as about 90 percent of my games has me playing the healer, lest we just give up and everyone plays as a damage dealing hero.
Should Marvel Rivals follow Overwatch’s footsteps, enforce a role queue, and then have a separate open role playlist? Leave a comment below and let us know.
While EA has confirmed that BioWare is developing a new Mass Effect game, it looks like another studio might beat them to the punch when it comes to bringing gamers an epic sci-fi RPG.
Enter Archetype Games. Headed by Former BioWare developers James Ohlen and Chad Robertson, the game’s game is titled Exodus, and the gameplay reveal released recently will seem a little familiar to Mass Effect fans.
Exodus Gameplay Debut Indicates It Might Fill That Sci-Fi RPG Void Left by Mass Effect
Gamers will play as Jun, who Archetype describes as a mix of Indiana Jones and Dune’s Paul Atriedes. Same as with Mass Effect, you’ll be able to customize your character, be it a male or female, and the game will feature companions, which I’m assuming you’ll be able to romance.
Game Structure: There are structured quests as well as areas you can explore around in, similar to KOTOR, Mass Effect, Dragon Age Origins. You decide the manner in which you do quests
You go on quests to retrieve Celestial technology, and depending on what you decide to do with that tech (help your society, advance militarily, etc), the game world can change drastically
Some choices you make with the Celestial tech can open up entirely different weapons and technology
A large cast of companions joins you, and you bring two along with you on quests like Mass Effect
Romances confirmed to be in the game
Some companions “will be at each other’s throats”, and you’ll have to side with some over others
Some companions can change “radically” depending on choices you make, for example through time dilation: leaving companions behind may change them, age them, etc by the time you come back
The overall aesthetic and gameplay first look really has that Mass Effect flavor, though I’m not complaining about that. Its combat also seems more dynamic and much more fast-paced compared to Mass Effect — at least from what’s shown.
No release date has been given, but it’s confirmed to be releasing on PS5, Xbox Series X|S and PC. As a big Mass Effect fan, I cannot wait to learn more about this game.
Ahead of tonight’s release, players can now download Zenless Zone Zero update 1.400.001, adding loads of new content, including the next story chapter, new agents, features, and much more! Here’s a breakdown of the highlights, along with the maintenance schedule.
Zenless Zone Zero Update 1.400.001 Brings New TV Mode, PS5 Pro Support, Chapter 5, and more.
Update: Patch notes are now live!
[New Content]
1. New Characters
● S-Rank Agent: Hoshimi Miyabi (Anomaly – Frost)
Hoshimi Miyabi has a unique Frost attribute and an independent Attribute Anomaly Buildup gauge. She can increase all squad members’ Anomaly Buildup Rate to quickly apply Attribute Anomalies on enemies. By triggering Disorder with the other squad members, she obtains Fallen Frost points. She then draws her blade and unleashes a powerful slash ahead, dealing massive DMG.
Asaba Harumasa is a ranged DPS character with a strong burst potential. In combat, when using certain skills, Harumasa can activate Electro Quivers to fire Ha-Oto no Ya that will tag the enemies with X-Marked. He then enters the Awakened state, rushing forward to the enemy and executing a powerful slash that deals Electric DMG.
2. New W-Engines
● S-Rank W-Engine: Hailstorm Shrine (Anomaly)
*The limited S-Rank W-Engine Hailstorm Shrine (Anomaly) can be unlocked by Signal Searching on the Dissonant Sonata channel.
● S-Rank W-Engine: Zanshin Herb Case (Attack)
*The limited S-Rank W-Engine Zanshin Herb Case (Attack) can be unlocked by Signal Searching on the Dazzling Choir channel.
● A-Rank W-Engine: Marcato Desire (Attack)
*Can be obtained via the limited-time event “Into That Pale Wasteland” in Version 1.4.
3. New Bangboo
● S-Rank Bangboo: Agent Gulliver
Can be obtained via An Outstanding Partner channel.
● A-Rank Bangboo: Brawlerboo
Can be obtained by increasing License Level in Hollow Zero: Lost Void.
4. New Story
● Main Story Chapter 5: A Storm of Falling Stars
Strike down the schemes threatening New Eridu like a bolt of lightning.
Availability: Permanently available after Version 1.4 goes live.
Requirements: Complete Main Story Chapter 4 “Tour de Inferno” and Special Episode “Virtual Revenge.”
● Asaba Harumasa’s Agent Story: A Name Written in Water
“That is the scar left by his healed wound.”
Availability: Permanently available after 2024/12/30 12:00:00 (server time)
Requirements: Complete Main Story “Leisurely Lull: Goldfinch’s Escape” (available after completing Main Story Chapter 5).
※ You can experience this content in advance via the “Advance Screening” function.
● Agent Trust Events
New Trust Events for Hoshimi Miyabi, Soukaku, and Asaba Harumasa.
Availability: Permanently available after Version 1.4 goes live.
How to Unlock: Obtain the corresponding Agents and complete the required Stories (Please see Workbench > Partner Archive)
※ Starting from Version 1.4, the Invitation Events for newly added Agents will be upgraded to Quality Time Invites. Invitation Events for existing Agents will be upgraded in future versions.
● The Agent Story “A Name Written in Water” is partially included in Agent Asaba Harumasa’s Trust Events, and Proxies can choose whether to experience it.
● Adds Quality Time Events
After Version 1.4 goes live, the Quality Time Events for Agents will be available:
Wish Events: Completing a Wish Event for the first time increases the Agent’s Trust and grants Polychromes and other rewards.
Fun Events: Experience and collect the Agent’s Fun Events during Quality Time to earn rewards.
Quality Time Spots: Enjoy arcade games with your Agents at the Arcade. More stores will be available for Quality Time activities in future updates.
Invite your Agents to stroll through New Eridu — take selfies, visit popular shops, and create unique memories together!
Availability: Permanently available after Version 1.4 goes live.
Requirements: Obtain the corresponding Agent and raise their Trust level to “Friendly.”
*Agent Soldier 11’s Quality Time Events will be added in future versions along with her Trust Events.
5. New Areas
● Port Elpis: Available in Main Story Chapter 5 “A Storm of Falling Stars” after Version 1.4 goes live.
A once-bustling port, now largely consumed by the Hollow.
Torchlit Lighthouse stands in the darkness, yet it guides the upper layers. The port walkway meanders through, with lost souls wandering in the labyrinth of containers, searching for the rescue number that’s long been torn off.
● Reverb Arena: Available after Version 1.4 goes live. Reach Main Story Chapter 1 – Intermission and complete Agent Story “Mole in the Hole (I)” to unlock.
Renovated from an old tunnel, Reverb Arena serves as a hub for gatherings of all sorts.
It’s a hotspot for music lovers, idol group fans, Ethereal researchers, Intelligent Construct enthusiasts, and, of course, Bangboo.
● H.S.O.S. 6 Office: Available after completing Main Story Chapter 5 “A Storm of Falling Stars” and acquiring Miyabi’s token.
HAND Headquarters’ accessible zones have been adjusted following Miyabi’s authorization.
H.S.O.S. 6 Office is located in HAND Headquarters and is the main office area of Hollow Special Operations Section 6.
6. New Events
● Special Visitor
Invite Asaba Harumasa to your squad now and claim upgrade supplies to level up your Agent from Lv. 1 to Lv. 40!
“I don’t need to clock in if I’m on field duty… How about I become your personal liaison?”
Event Duration: After Version 1.4 goes live – 2025/03/12 05:59 (UTC+8)
Requirements: Reach Inter-Knot Lv. 8 and unlock the Event feature in the Main Story Prologue – Intermission.
● All-New Program
Log in for a total of 7 days to earn Encrypted Master Tape ×10!
Event Duration: After Version 1.4 goes live – 2025/01/21 03:59 (server time)
Requirements: Reach Inter-Knot Lv. 8 and unlock the Event feature in the Main Story Prologue – Intermission.
● Into That Pale Wasteland
The dangers of cursed lands
shall fall before this blade.
Event Duration: Available throughout Version 1.4 (for the exact start time, please stay tuned for the upcoming event announcements).
Requirements: Reach Inter-Knot Lv. 23 and Main Story Chapter 2 – Intermission.
※ For the best experience, it is recommended to complete Main Story Chapter 5 “A Storm of Falling Stars” before participating in this event.
※ Once time is up, the “Into That Pale Wasteland” event will be documented in Ridu Chronicles. Proxies can continue playing event content in Ridu Chronicles.
● Where the Stars Shine Bright
Curious about the youngest Void Hunter in New Eridu and her unstoppable team?
The HIA & Section 6 special promo starts today — stay tuned!
Requirements: Begin Main Story Chapter 2 – Intermission and unlock Routine Cleanup.
7. New Gameplay
● Hollow Zero: Lost Void
Explore the Lost Void to experience diverse Gear and Resonia effects, enhance Agent combat abilities, and experiment with different playstyles to defeat enemies and earn rare rewards.
Availability: Permanently available after Version 1.4 goes live
Requirements: Complete the Agent Story “Mole in the Hole (I)” to unlock the “Lost Void” series of commissions.
※ After Version 1.4 update, the Investigation Points obtainable each week from Hollow Zero: Withered Domain will no longer be limited.
※ From 2024/12/16 04:00 (server time) to 2024/12/23 04:00 (server time), Investigation Points and Shadow Crystal Data obtained from Hollow Zero will count towards the week’s Bounty Commissions. Starting from 2024/12/23 04:00, Hollow Zero: Withered Domain Bounty Commissions will no longer be updated, and only Shadow Crystal Data will be counted towards Hollow Zero: Lost Void Bounty Commissions.
● Deadly Assault
The new permanent gameplay mode “Deadly Assault” will soon be available.
Challenge powerful enemies to earn Polychrome, Investigation Merits, Dennies, and more rewards!
Event Duration: Permanently available after 2024/12/20 04:00 (server time). The first refresh is set for 2025/01/10 04:00 (server time), with subsequent refreshes occurring every two weeks on Fridays at 04:00 (server time).
Requirements: Reach Inter-Knot Lv. 40 and unlock Shiyu Defense.
● Adds Challenging Mode to The Mystery of Arpeggio Fault
After the Version 1.4 update, Proxies can choose between Normal Mode and Challenging Mode when entering The Mystery of Arpeggio Fault stages. In Challenging Mode, Crimson Silk acquisition increases by 50%, Agents cannot be recruited, Tech Tree effect trigger rates are halved, and enemy stats are slightly enhanced.
Proxies can select their preferred difficulty level for the challenge.
8. New Systems
● Adds “Special Training Plan” system for Agents Proxies can access it via the Agent interface to:
1. View detailed upgrade plans for Agents, calculate upgrade materials, and quickly navigate to the Agent upgrade or material acquisition screens.
2. Set upgrade plans individually for Agents, skills, and Drive Discs. The set targets will be displayed in their respective modules.
3. Batch set upgrade plans.
4. Designate an Agent as the “Training Target,” after which the required materials in the HIA Club, Routine Cleanup, Notorious Hunt, music store, and Compendium screens will be marked for easier identification.
● Adds an Agent Combat Readiness system, allowing Proxies to view recommended upgrade paths for Agents and quickly navigate to their upgrade screens.
● The Inter-Knot now includes a “Journey” system, enabling Proxies to review their progress in Main Story chapters, unlocking functions, and commissions. Reach specific nodes to claim the corresponding chapter rewards.
9. Other New Content
1. New Content
● Adds new enemies: Tyrfing (Infested), Alpeca (Infested), Special Sacrifice Entity, Shatterbug, Autonomous Assault Unit – Typhon Destroyer, and Notorious – Marionette.
● Adds a “Monster Duet” challenge to Routine Cleanup, where the new series of Drive Discs, “Branch & Blade Song” and “Astral Voice” can be obtained.
● Adds “Special Sacrifice Entity” challenge to Notorious Hunt.
● Adds new challenge “Thracian” to Expert Challenge.
● “Hamster Cage Pass” is available for exchange at the NPC Casper’s Association Supplies store in Scott Outpost.
● Adds new TV shows: Coffee Mate, Nihility, and Lumina Square Ad.
● Adds a “Manage Resources” function to the mobile version that allows Proxies to delete or download story-related resources via Options > Other.
● Adds new Inter-Knot style avatars.
● Adds new dynamic wallpapers for Agents Hoshimi Miyabi, Soukaku, and Asaba Harumasa. Unlock these dynamic wallpapers by obtaining the respective Agents and increasing their Trust to certain levels.
● Adds new achievements, including some hidden ones, for: A Ridu Journey, Phaethon’s Story, Agent Story, Agent Trust, When Opportunities Converge, Hollow Zero, Combat Techniques, Enemy Target, Combat Achievements, Hollow Exploration Guide, and Zero Key.
● Adds two new achievements, “I’m Shiyu” to Shiyu Defense and “Sweep the Battlefield” to Deadly Assault. Unlocking them grants custom achievement avatars.
● Adds a new trophy set to the PS5™ and PS5™ Pro platforms: “ZZZ: A Storm of Falling Stars” and “ZZZ: Special Challenge Group”
● Adds new selectable Agents for the “Character Selection” feature. Proxies can now switch between all the Agents obtained to freely move around the city.
● Adds a new item, Victoria Housekeeping Coupon, which can be obtained by raising the License Level in Hollow Zero: Lost Void and completing Bounty Commissions. After completing Routine Cleanup stages, Proxies can use Victoria Housekeeping Coupons to directly claim Drive Disc rewards for the corresponding difficulty level.
● Adds street corner random encounters to HAND Headquarters.
● Adds new battle stages and event maps.
● Adds a new themed map, “Melinoe,” available in the “Into That Pale Wasteland” event.
● Adds new missions to “Ridu Weekly” (the total number of weekly missions remains unchanged). Proxies can view the week’s missions after Ridu Weekly is refreshed every Monday at 04:00 (server time).
● After progressing the main plot in Chapter 5: A Storm of Falling Stars, Officer Mewmew will arrive at Port Elpis. Chat with Officer Mewmew to get Mewmew’s Port Elpis Notes, and complete Mewmew challenges to earn each corresponding medal. Challenges consist of City side missions, Bangboo repairs, finding mini cargo trucks, and earning commemorative coins.
● A “Very Low” option for FX Quality has been added to the PC client Options.
● If Proxies manually adjusted the FX Quality setting on the PC client before the Version 1.4 update, the setting will be reset to its default after the update.
● The PC, PS5™, and PS5™ Pro versions now feature scratch effects when Agents attack enemies. For the PC version, enable this effect by selecting “High” for “FX Quality” in Options.
2. Shiyu Defense
Critical Node
▶ Rules Adjustments
● Starting with the Version 1.4 update, Critical Node will refresh biweekly on Fridays at 04:00 (server time). The next refresh is scheduled for January 3, 2025, at 04:00 (server time).
● Adds a Quick Sweep function to Critical Node: Achieving an S rating on the Fourth Frontier or higher in Critical Node will automatically grant an S rating and all rewards for the first three Frontiers in the next season. If you achieve an S rating on the Third Frontier this time, you can skip the first two Frontiers in the next season and start directly from the Third Frontier.
※ The Quick Sweep function will only unlock the corresponding Frontiers in the current season of Critical Node based on the Proxy’s most recent Frontier Challenge record.
※ Currently, this function only applies to the first three frontiers.
▶ After the Version 1.4 update, the current Critical Node buff details are listed below:
Phase 1:
Increases Agents’ Electric and Ice Anomaly Buildup Rate by 25%.
When enemies enter an Attribute Anomaly state, all squad members’ CRIT DMG is increased by 20%, and Attribute Anomaly DMG is increased by 20%, stacking up to 3 stacks, lasting 30s. The duration of each stack is calculated separately.
Phase 2:
Agents’ Electric and Ice DMG dealt is increased by 20%.
When attacking enemies in an Attribute Anomaly state, the Agent’s CRIT Rate is increased by 20%, and CRIT DMG is increased by 40%.
Phase 3:
Increases Agents’ Anomaly Buildup Rate by 25%.
When a Support Agent uses EX Special Attack, Chain Attack, or Ultimate, all squad members’ ATK is increased by 15%, and Anomaly Proficiency is increased by 20, lasting for 20s, stacking up to 2 stacks. The duration of each stack is calculated separately.
*Due to recording schedule arrangements, some of the new content in Version 1.4 currently lacks English voiceovers. We sincerely apologize for any inconvenience caused.
[Adjustments & Optimizations]
1. Agents
● Adjusts the Agents’ display for certain angles: When viewed from specific angles, the Agent will appear faded.
● Optimizes the 3D model and special effects for Agent Hoshimi Miyabi.
● Optimizes the video animations in the Agent Story UI menu.
● Optimizes the model precision for Tsukishiro Yanagi, Hoshimi Miyabi, Asaba Harumasa, Soukaku, Caesar, Lighter, Burnice, Belle, and Wise in the PC version of the game. When the “High-Precision Character Animation” option is enabled in Options > Graphics, more detailed Agent models will be displayed in the Agent screen, during free city exploration when switching Agents through the “Character Selection” feature, and during story playback.
● Optimizes the model precision for Tsukishiro Yanagi, Hoshimi Miyabi, Asaba Harumasa, Soukaku, Caesar, Lighter, Burnice, Belle, and Wise on the PS5™ and PS5™ Pro versions of the game. More detailed Agent models will be displayed in the Agent screen, during free city exploration when switching Agents via the “Character Selection” feature, during story playback, and in combat.
2. Enemies
● Optimizes the lighting effects for certain enemies.
3. Systems
● Optimizes the Decibels mechanics. After the Version 1.4 update, the Decibels Agents obtained will be calculated individually with the following adjustments:
1) Increases the Decibels gained from hitting enemies or other actions, while reducing the Decibels obtained from applying Attribute Anomaly and Disorder effects to normal and elite enemies. A portion of the Decibels obtained from hitting enemies will be transferred to other squad members.
2) The Assist Points restored when an Agent uses an Ultimate have been reduced from 3 to 1 point.
3) When an Agent uses an Ultimate, besides enemy actions, buff timers, and stage timers, the actions of other Agents and allied units will be paused until the Ultimate animation ends.
4) Adjusts the order of the “Skill Upgrade Suggestions” for certain Agents.
5) The effect range of some Decibels-related Resonia will now only apply to a single Agent. Detailed adjustments can be checked in-game.
6) The W-Engine Slice of Time’s “restores energy” effect will remain only effective for the equipper, while the “gains additional Decibels” effect will only apply to the Agent who activates the skill.
● Optimizes the Trust system:
1) Adds a quick jump to the Partner Archive on the DM interface.
2) Adds a quick jump button, “Go Invite,” to the Agent screen of the Partner Archive.
3) Optimizes the requirements for Trust level increase events. Once the conditions are met, Proxies can trigger the event directly on Inter-Knot when sending a DM invitation to the Agent, without waiting until the next day.
4) Adds a new daily mission, “Complete an Agent Invite event,” to the Compendium – Daily. Completing it will grant 200 Engagement points.
● Optimizes the interaction logic for W-Engine enhancement and Drive Disc upgrade. “Enhance” and “Overclocking” features for W-Engines are now integrated into the “Enhance” button in the lower-right corner. Tap “Enhance” to directly upgrade Drive Discs.
● Adjusts Main Commission content from Prologue to Chapter 3 for a better experience.
● Optimizes the W-Engine Channel interface by adding demonstration videos for W-Engine effects.
● Optimizes the “Character Details” viewing feature in some storyline and trial character interfaces.
● Casper’s Association Supplies store at Scott Outpost now offers a new item, “Hidden Treasure,” for exchange and Reserved Relic is removed. If you have unused Reserved Relics, you can choose the new selectable reward “Sycophant’s Refinement.” When exchanging Hidden Treasure using Z-Merits, Proxies can directly select and exchange the desired Precious Relic (Core Skill enhancement materials).
● Optimizes the travel and teleporter functions. Some store teleport points now have a selectable option, “Open the Function interface directly (first time each day).” When enabled, the corresponding store interface will automatically open upon the Proxy’s first teleport to the store each day.
● Ray Tracing is now supported on PS5™ and PS5™ Pro. The feature is enabled by default on PS5™ Pro and can be manually toggled in Options > Graphics for PS5™ (default: off).
● Optimizes the display order of rewards in challenges with double drops.
● Optimizes the display of stage details in Compendium – Tactics.
● Optimizes the layout of Compendium: Combat – Hollow Zero.
● Adds a quick jump to “Deadly Assault” in Compendium – Combat.
● Optimizes the red dot display logic for the Title system.
● Optimizes the Badge system with the new badge “Deadly Assault: Line Breaker,” which can be displayed upon unlocking “Deadly Assault.”
● Adds a lineup-saving feature to Critical Node. After deploying characters on the Select Squad screen, Proxies will have the option to save the current lineup before returning to the stage screen.
● Optimizes the combat experience in Combat Simulation by granting Agents a fixed amount of Energy at the start of each challenge.
● Optimizes the camera function. When the Proxy takes photos in the city, some NPCs within a certain angle will now look at the camera.
● The coffee shop content has been streamlined, reducing the variety of available coffees. After the Version 1.4 update, Novice Proxies can order Espresso, while Certified Proxies can order both Espresso and Tin Master Specials.
Espresso Effect: Restores 60 Battery Charge and grants the buff: Combat Simulation drops increased by 100% for 1 Enemy Card.
Tin Master Specials Effect: Restores 80 Battery Charge.
● Due to adjustments in the main storyline, after the Version 1.4 update, the achievement “Effective Utilization” can no longer be unlocked using the previous method. The requirements for this achievement have been adjusted.
Before: Push the box to the trigger switch in The Ultimate Collectibles.
After: Find the W-Engine in “The Ultimate Collectibles.”
4. Gameplay
● Adds an auto-save function to the arcade game “Bizarre Brigade.” If Proxies haven’t completed the previous round, you can choose to either “Load Save File” or “Abandon Save File” from the shop at the most recent rest point when re-entering the arcade game.
5. Others
● Optimizes certain in-game art assets across all platform clients, reducing the storage space required. On the PC client, the quality of some scene textures may slightly decrease.
● Optimizes the issue where vehicle license plates in the traffic flow on Lumina Square streets would repeat.
● Optimizes visuals of some scenes in the Simulated Battle Trial.
● Optimizes the projection effects for Wise, Belle, and Agents’ models.
● Optimizes the 3D models and art design for some NPCs.
● Adjusts the unlock requirements for Simulated Battle Trial:
Before: Reach Inter-Knot Lv. 36 and complete Main Story Chapter 3 “The Midnight Pursuit.”
After: Complete Main Story Chapter 3 “The Midnight Pursuit”.
[Issue Fixes]
1. Agents
● Fixes an issue where, under certain circumstances, Agent Tsukishiro Yanagi’s Mindscape Cinema “Know Thy Self, Know Thy Enemy” would incorrectly consume the “Clarity” effect.
● Fixes an issue where, when Agent Lighter performs a Shuffle Dodge after a Dodge Counter or Quick Assist, the hit count of his follow-up Basic Attack is abnormal.
● Fixes an issue where, when Agent Lighter dodges, if Basic Attack is not pressed during the Dodge or Dash, pressing it after the Dodge ends skips the 1st hit and directly performs the 2nd hit.
● Fixes an issue where when Agent Lighter has applied Collapse to a target, if Freeze is triggered on the same target, it does not pause the Collapse effect timer.
● Fixes an issue where Agent Rina does not correctly gain Decibels when attacking enemies with EX Special Attack, Ultimate, and other skills that interrupt enemy attacks through summoned creatures.
● Fixes an issue where the visual effects of Agent Ellen’s tail do not display correctly when she exits the Roaming state.
● Fixes an issue where Agent Lycaon’s skin tone does not display correctly under certain circumstances.
● Fixes an issue where when an Agent’s Anomaly Proficiency reaches 600, further increases to the stat are less effective than intended.
2. Bangboo
● Fixes an issue where the eyes of Exploreboo are abnormal.
● Fixes an issue where the eyes of Luckyboo sometimes do not display correctly.
● Fixes an issue where Bangboo cannot properly follow in front of the stairs in certain scenes.
3. Systems
● Fixes an issue where, in Controller Mode, button prompts on certain interfaces are abnormal.
● Fixes an issue where, in Controller Mode, switching screens in “Special Episode” does not function correctly.
● Fixes an issue where, in Controller Mode, the selection window does not function correctly when entering Partner Archive.
4. Gameplay
Fixes an issue in the arcade game “Bizarre Brigade” where the relic “Despair” has unusual effects.
Fixes an issue where Bangboo sound effects may be abnormal during the preparation phase of the Simulated Battle Trial.
5. Environments
Fixes an issue where abnormal models may appear in the air in certain scenes.
Fixes an issue where the walls in some scenes are abnormal on certain devices.
6. Others
Fixes an issue where the rendering of Agents, scenes, and other content may appear abnormal on some Android devices.
Fixes typos found in some in-game text.
Adjusts, improves, and fixes the in-game text for some languages. These changes will not affect gameplay or functions.
Original Story:
While the official patch notes for Zenless Zone Zero version 1.4 aren’t expected to be live for a few hours, we know the major stuff that will be included, which you can read in the breakdown below.
New Main Story: Chapter 5
New Agents: Hoshimi Miyabi (Frost Anomaly agent) and Asaba Harumasa (Electric Attack Agent)
New Locations: Port Elpis and Reverb Arena.
New W-Engines: Hailstorm Shrine and Marcato Desire
New TV Mode Experience: Choose between the classic view or the new 3D exploration TV Mode experience.
PS5 Pro Support
General bug fixes and quality-of-life improvements.
And more!
We’ll update the information above with the full patch notes once they’ve been published.
Zenless Zone Zero Servers Down for Planned Maintenance
In preparation for version 1.4, Zenless Zone Zero’s servers have been taken down and won’t be back up until version 1.4’s launch time. They’ll be down for an estimated 5 hours. A breakdown of time zones (North America) can be found below.
December 17, 2024 at 2:00 PM PST – December 17, 2024 at 7:00 PM PST
December 17, 2024 at 4:00 PM CST – December 17, 2024 at 9:00 PM CST
December 17, 2024 at 5:00 PM EST – December 17, 2024 at 10:00 PM EST
Once the servers are back up, players will have access to 1.4 content, along with the standard apology gift (300 Polychromes) upon logging in.
A gamer at heart, James has been working for MP1st for the last decade to do exactly what he loves, writing about video games and having fun doing it. Growing up in the 90's gaming has been in his DNA since the days of NES. One day he hopes to develop his own game.
Xur and his wares may have left Destiny until Friday, but yet another new set of weekly activities and Eververse offerings is here to keep Guardians occupied. The new Destiny 2 weekly reset December 17, 2024 is now live, detailed below along with this week’s Eververse inventory.
Shielded Foes: You will face combatants with [Arc] Arc, [Solar] Solar, and [Void] Void shields.
Overcharged Weapons: Weapon overcharges from the Seasonal Artifact are active in this activity. Kinetic weapons do increased damage when your Super element matches an active surge.
Advanced Modifiers: Extra Shields
Champion Foes: You will face [Shield-Piercing] Barrier and [Stagger] Unstoppable Champions. Visit the Character or Mod Customization screen to view your active anti-Champion perks.
Solar Threat: 25% increase to incoming Solar damage.
Overcharged Rocket Launcher: 25% bonus to Rocket Launcher damage.
Arc Surge: 25% bonus to outgoing Arc damage.
Stasis Surge: 25% bonus to outgoing Stasis damage.
Galvanized: Combatants have more health and are more difficult to stun.
Nightfall: Expert
All previous modifiers
Expert Modifiers: Locked Loadout Extra Shields
Equipment Locked: You will not be able to change your equipment after this activity starts.
Randomized Banes: Combatants are granted random Banes.
Nightfall: Master
All previous modifiers
Master Modifiers: Extra Champions Locked Loadout Extra Shields
Oscillation: Dealing damage with Scout Rifles, Pulse Rifles, and Grenade Launchers gradually reduces their damage while increasing the damage of Submachine Guns and Shotguns, and vice versa. Other weapon types deal significantly less damage.
Nightfall: Grandmaster
All previous modifiers
Grandmaster Modifiers: Extinguish Limited Revives Contest Join In Progress Disabled Extra Champions Locked Loadout Extra Shields
Extinguish: If your fireteam falls in a Restricted Zone, everyone is returned to orbit.
Limited Revives: Limited fireteam revives. Gain additional revives by defeating Champions.
Chill Touch: Being hit by a melee attack slows you.
Working as a united fireteam, pursue Zavala through a violent storm and across the threshold of Darkness and Light.
Legacy Activities
Neomuna
Campaign Mission: Desperate Measures: Fight alongside your allies in a final stand against Calus, the Disciple.
Partition: Backdoor: Break into a Vex Mind’s stronghold and defeat it.
Vex Incursion Zone: Zephyr Concourse
Savathûn’s Throne World
Campaign Mission: The Cunning: Following a lead from Fynch, search the dark corners of Savathûn’s throne world for another clue to how she stole the Light.
Exo Challenge: Simulation: Survival: Simulated Skill-Set Training: Survive the harsh weather as you take down the Vex.
Moon:
Campaign Mission: Beyond
Wandering Nightmare: Nightmare of Xortal, Sworn of Crota (Sorrow’s Harbor)
Trove Guardian is in Archer’s Line
Dreaming City: Weak Curse
Petra is at The Strand.
Weekly Mission: Broken Courier – Respond to a distress call in the Strand.
Ascendant Challenge: Agonarch Abyss, Bay of Drowned Wishes
Blind Well: Scorn, Plagues: Sikariis & Varkuuriis
Miscellaneous
Ada-1’s Wares
Name
Description
Cost
Goldleaf
Equip this shader to change the color of your gear.
10000 Glimmer
Flowers of Io
Apply this shader to change the color of your gear.
10000 Glimmer
New Monarchy Allegiance
Apply this shader to change the color of your gear.
10000 Glimmer
Upgrade Module
A collection of universal components that can be used to infuse power between gear items. Can be purchased from the Gunsmith or acquired from special reward sources.
Modifications for your ship’s transmat systems, so you’ll always arrive in style.
Transmat Effect
450 Bright Dust
Weekly Bounties
Eva Levante, Charming Old Lady
Name
Description
Cost
Requirement
Reward
The Spirit of Giving
Deliver holiday treats to recipients all over the system.
1000 Glimmer
5 Gifts delivered
XP++ & Bright Dust & Random Ingredient & 30 Essence of Dawning & 40 Essence of Dawning & 10 Dawning Spirit
Snowball Fight
Defeat combatants with snowballs. Snowballs spawn when combatants are defeated with abilities or Dawning weapons.
1000 Glimmer
50 Targets
XP++ & Bright Dust & Random Ingredient & 30 Essence of Dawning & 40 Essence of Dawning & 10 Dawning Spirit
Petra Venj, The Dreaming City
Name
Description
Cost
Requirement
Reward
Ascendant Challenge
“The Awoken have long practiced the art of walking between worlds.” —Techeun Kalli
1500 Glimmer
1 Ascendant challenge completed
XP++ & Dark Fragment & Legendary Gear
Gateway Between Worlds
“The Blind Well can split wide the veins that run between realities.” —Techeun Sedia
40 Dark Fragment
10 Activity completions
XP++ & Offering to the Oracle
Eris Morn, Moon
Name
Description
Cost
Requirement
Reward
Slow-Wave Disruption
Complete waves of Altars of Sorrow in Sorrow’s Harbor.
1000 Glimmer
7 Waves completed
Hymn of Desecration
Lunar Spelunker
Loot chests in 3 of the Moon’s Lost Sectors.
1000 Glimmer
1 K1 Communion Lost Sector looted & 1 K1 Logistics Lost Sector looted & 1 K1 Crew Quarters Lost Sector looted
1 Firewall Data Fragment
Lectern of Enchantment, Moon
Name
Description
Cost
Requirement
Reward
Nightmare Hunter
Defeat Nightmares in Nightmare Hunts.
5 Phantasmal Fragment
100 Nightmares
XP++ & 1 Phantasmal Core
Nightmare Sojourner
Defeat Nightmares in Lost Sectors across the solar system. Nightmares defeated on the Moon only grant reduced progress.
5 Phantasmal Fragment
100 Nightmares
XP++ & 1 Phantasmal Core
Variks, Europa
Name
Description
Cost
Requirement
Reward
Courageous Expedition
On Europa, complete Lost Sectors, public events, and patrols.
1000 Glimmer
15 Progress
XP++
Divine Intervention
During the Empire Hunt “The Dark Priestess,” defeat Kridis and earn points by defeating combatants with precision final blows. Higher difficulties grant more efficient progress.
1000 Glimmer
50 [Headshot] Precision & 1 Kridis defeated
XP++
Shaw Han, Cosmodrome
Name
Description
Cost
Requirement
Reward
Public Disturbance
Complete public events on the Cosmodrome. Heroic public events grant the most efficient progress.
1000 Glimmer
3 Public events
XP++ & Glimmer
Full Spectrum
Defeat combatants on the Cosmodrome with Arc, Void, and Solar damage.
1000 Glimmer
25 [Arc] Arc & 25 [Void] Void & 25 [Solar] Solar
XP++ & Glimmer
Starhorse, Eternity
Name
Description
Cost
Requirement
Reward
Old-Fashioned Way
Complete the following objectives in a single run of Dares of Eternity. Objectives will reset if not completed when the activity ends. Defeat combatants with charged or uncharged melee abilities, defeat combatants with weapons equipped in the Kinetic slot, and complete the activity with an impressive score.
Complete the following objectives in a single run of Dares of Eternity. Objectives will reset if not completed when the activity ends. Defeat combatants with your Super, disintegrate combatants with high-damage elemental final blows, and complete the activity with an impressive score.
Complete the following objectives in a single run of Dares of Eternity on Expert difficulty. Objectives will reset if not completed when the activity ends. Pick up Orbs of Power, rapidly defeat combatants, and complete the activity with an incredible score.
11777 Glimmer
100 Orbs of Power & 125 Rapidly defeated & 1 300000 Points
In the Vex Incursion Zone, defeat combatants using Strand to obtain Shellcode Fragments. Open a Terminal Overload Key Chest to obtain a Polymorphic Engine.
1000 Glimmer
8 Shellcode Fragments & 1 Polymorphic Engine
XP++ & Polymorphic Shellcode
Seasonal Challenges
Name
Description
Objectives
Rewards
Overachiever
Complete bonus objectives in the Tomb of Elders.
24 Progress
Challenger XP++
Mod Collector
Unlock artifact mods.
12 Mods unlocked
Challenger XP++ & Bright Dust
Splat!
Get Sparrow final blows in Crucible, Vanguard, or Gambit playlist activities. Bonus progression is granted for dealing final blows to Guardians.
30 Sparrow Kills
Challenger XP++ & Bright Dust
Gotta Win Them All
Complete activities in Vanguard, Gambit, or Crucible playlists. Bonus progress is granted for completing Vanguard playlist activities at Advanced difficulty or higher, or for winning Gambit or Crucible matches.
30 Progress
Challenger XP++ & Bright Dust
Fleeting Glory
Complete Crucible matches in the Competitive playlist. Earn bonus progress for wins.
8 Progress
Challenger XP++ & Bright Dust
Kinetic Forces
Get final blows with Kinetic weapons. Bonus progress for defeating Guardians.
150 Kinetic weapon
Challenger XP++ & Bright Dust
Notable Armor Rolls
Only notable rolls (stat total >= 59 or single stat >= 26) are listed here.
Class
Name
Vendor
Type
MOB
RES
REC
DIS
INT
STR
Total
Cost
Fans of Destiny 2 can bookmark our Destiny page to stay up to date with all weekly refreshes and content updates.
While boxing fans just got the big 1.2 patch for Undisputed last week, Steel City Interactive has released another one today, which console gamers will see as Undisputed update 1.002.001, and this brings bug fixes.
Undisputed Career mode Crashing Resolved in Update 1.002.001
Steel City Interactive announced they’ve released a game update “to resolve a crash in career mode affecting players in the men’s Welterweight and Heavyweight divisions.”
The studio also acknowledged the issue preventing players from progressing weeks in career mode, and they are currently working on a fix, though no timetable has been set for it.
While last week’s patch was released alongside premium DLC, it also housed new content available for all players for free in the form of:
New Venues
Added Cambrian Hall. Located in the heart of England’s Capital and draped in rich boxing history, fighting at this venue is every prospect’s dream.
Added Atlantis, an underwater aquarium-like venue, located on the ocean bed. Can you keep your composure in the ring when you’re deep under water?
New Cosmetics
All players will receive an additional free outfit for Tyson Fury and Oleksandr Usyk – recreate their historic first fight in all its glory with their fight-accurate outfits.
For the complete list of fixes and additions for last week’s patch, head on over here.
As expected, given that we had maintenance server downtime today, Bungie released Destiny 2 update 3.47 (PS5/XSX version 1.042) for patch 8.1.5.2! Guardians can expect changes to weapons, armor, activities and more, and they are all outlined in the official patch notes.
Destiny 2’s Latest Update Released This December 17 Delivers a Multitude of Fixes
Activities
Seasonal
Tomb of Elders
Fixed an issue where players could join Contest of Elders after the final encounter had been completed.
Fixed an issue where one of the bonus chests during Contest of Elders would only reward Glimmer.
Fixed an issue where sometimes only five out of six explosive tanks would spawn during the Spider Tank encounter, resulting in a soft lock.
Onslaught: Salvation
Reduced the number of visual and sound effects in Cabal boss rooms.
Vanguard Ops
Fixed an issue where the Inverted Spire strike was disabled in the playlist.
Lost Sectors
Fixed an issue where weapons would not drop on certain days.
Raid and Dungeons
Crota’s End
Fixed an issue where the Master version of Crota’s End was not saving player checkpoints.
Salvation’s Edge
Fixed an issue where the Master version of Salvation’s Edge was not saving player checkpoints.
Vesper’s Host
Fixed an issue where the nuclear core could get stuck under the floor in the final encounter.
Fixed an issue where player’s Ghost could get stuck in a bad location when traversing between the second and third encounters.
Gameplay and Investment
Revenant Tonics
Legendary Tonics now 100% guarantee their specific reward.
Legendary Tonics now increase the chances of obtaining the specified gear from the activity they are made for.
For instance, Tonic of Vangate Point (Onslaught) will increase the chances of that weapon dropping from Onslaught: Salvation chests.
Increased the base duration of Tonics across the board.
Uncommon: 40 minutes
Rare: 60 minutes
Legendary: 80 minutes
Exotic Armor
Hunter
Fixed an issue where Knucklehead Radar was applying its target marking players instantly on hits.
It should now only mark players only when breaking their shield.
Functionality remains the same against combatants.
Weapons
Weapon perks
High Ground
Damage bonus against players has been fixed. Perk has been reenabled.
Increased the height differential required to activate High Ground’s damage bonus against players by 150% when using a Primary ammo weapon.
Let Bygones be Bygones…
Weapon crafting
Fixed an issue where trying to craft a Garden of Salvation weapon without its pattern unlocked would show an incorrect dialog.
Abilities
Titan
Sentinel Shield
Fixed a bug that was unintentionally multiplying Sentinel Shield damage.
Increased non-Champion PvE-combatant damage by 44%.
Increased Champion PvE-combatant damage by 15%.
Hunter
Spectral Blades
Increased non-Champion PvE combatant damage by 66%.
Increased Champion PvE combatant damage by 30%.
Power and Progression
Fixed an issue where the requirements for Guardian Rank 6 didn’t have the proper descriptions.
General
Corrected an issue that prevented Warlocks from purchasing the Lucent Night Bundle in the Eververse.
Updated Street Fighter finisher bundle inventory check to avoid instances of items being sent to the Postmaster.
Will this be the last Destiny 2 patch Bungie rolls out this year? We can’t say for sure, but if the devs do release one, we’ll be sure to let our readers know.
Vault Dwellers rejoice: Fallout 76’s Atomic Shop has been refreshed with a fresh selection of bundles and individual items! As usual, MP1st is here with the new Fallout 76 Atomic Shop weekly update today, December 17’s list of items for sale. Read on for this week’s best Atomic Shop offerings below.
New Fallout 76 Atomic Shop Weekly Update for December 17:
Notable Items This Week:
School House Bundle – 1800
Bundle: Comin’ to Town – 620
Under the Tree Bundle – 840
School House Kit – 700
School Furniture Set – 700
Chalkboard Secret Door – 700
Bulletin Board – 300
School House Wallpaper – 400
Cozy Winter Wasteland Photomode Frame – 250
Raid Runners Bundle – 2400
Santa’s Warriors Bundle – 1260
Christmas Sitting Room – 1050
Friends of the Wasteland Bundle – 1273
Thunderstorm Scientist Bundle – 1145
Snow Fighter Bundle – 820
Santatron Station
Free Supply Package (Level 2) – Free
Juggling – 200
What is the Fallout 76 Atomic Shop?
The Atomic Shop is an in-game store in Fallout 76 offering cosmetics, C.A.M.P. objects and more in exchange for a special currency called Atoms. Most purchases are unlocked account-wide, and may be accessed by any character on the account.
Some objects require an in-game plan to be learned in order to gain access, while other items are only unlocked for a single, specified character. All exclusive items are character-bound, and cannot be dropped or traded with other players. The Atomic Shop is accessible at any time from the main menu, as well as the pause screen after leaving Vault 76 for the first time.
That’s it for this week’s refresh. Is there anything in particular that interests you?
If not, there’s always next week, which we’ll have covered, so be sure to check again next Tuesday!
Machine Games has released the second patch for Indiana Jones and The Great Circle. This is full of fixes, visual improvements, and even platform-specific fixes. called Update 2 by the studio, the complete Indiana Jones and the Great Circle new update for December 17 is available below.
For the before and after images, just drag the button-like thing to see what got improved by Machine Games.
Indiana Jones and the Great Circle Update 2 Delivers a Treasure Trove of Improvements
General
Fixed an issue where users Game Slot may be reported as being damaged, or may appear to be completely missing, when no actual problem had occurred.
Gameplay
Fixed an issue where player may be unable to equip Indy’s whip.
Fixed an issue where a player may end up with Indy’s camera permanently equipped.
Fixed an issue where player may drop and lose their camera if they use the quick-equip (“key item”) prompt to equip their camera while they are inspecting another nearby pick-up item.
Graphics
Fix to prevent “Double vision” getting stuck on screen when Indy has almost drowned. To players who have already encountered this issue, repeating the near-drown should clear the issue.
Some further improvements to reduce “stutter” from duplicated frames during cutscenes.
Missions and quests – Please note this section contains some small spoilers
Fixed an issue where Gina may not approach the secret entrance to the Vatican Treasure Chamber, blocking the mission from progressing.
Fixed an issue where Gina may go to pick the lock to the exit from the Vatican Treasure Chamber as soon as you enter the room, meaning you may miss some very important story developments.
Fixed a big hole in the floor collision around the edge of the wall around the Ziggurat in Sukhothai that the player could fall through.
PC Specific fixes
Fixed an issue where Nvidia DLSS may cause performance problems when enabled.
Fixed an issue where Nvidia Frame Generation wasn’t activated properly if HDR is in use.
Fixed an issue where Nvidia Low Latency Mode could cause performance problems when used with Frame Generation.
Fixed an issue where global illumination may be completely disabled when playing with below minimum VRAM graphics cards.
Fixed an issue where Lighting may be over bright in interior spaces if Path Tracing (Full Ray Tracing) is set to Medium or High Quality.
Known Issue: Nvidia Frame Generation may be temporarily disabled if HDR is activated for the first time. To work around this issue, disable and then re-enable DLSS. This only needs to be done once.
Xbox Specific fixes
Improvements to Global Illumination on Xbox, to fix issues where shadowed areas had appeared brighter than expected.
Before and After Comparison
Not a bad patch, and this should be the last patch from Bethesda for 2024. If you’ve yet to play Indiana Jones and the Great Circle, go read our review of it here, where we state, “Putting its flaws aside, Indiana Jones and the Great Circle is a fantastic adventure that delivers everything fans have come to love about the franchise. It’s a thrilling ride filled with action, mystery, and unforgettable moments, capturing the very essence of what makes an Indiana Jones adventure so iconic.”
