Since Thursday (Xbox) and Friday (PC, PS4), the Closed Beta of The Division has been running. Now it is over. We want to record our impressions and ask: What did you think of the beta?
Done, over and out! After a little extension from Ubisoft, the Closed Beta of The Division has come to an end. We want to pick out a few noteworthy aspects and ponder what future can be predicted for the upcoming MMO shooter. What insights can we gain from the beta?
New York, New York – Does the atmosphere convince?
Before we tackle objective insights, I want to begin with a very subjective aspect that plays an extraordinary role for me ‒ especially in games that want to provide long-lasting enjoyment: the atmosphere. How does the game greet you? What does it feel like to stroll through the apocalypse in New York?
While Destiny captivated me immediately with breathtaking intro and epic music, The Division was significantly more reserved ‒ in the beta, mind you! How the main game introduces you to the story remains to be seen.
First, we get to create a character. Well, “create” is not really the right word; let’s say you are allowed to randomly choose one. In the beta, detailed customizations are still locked. Therefore, a character is quickly selected, and you are thrown into the story rather carelessly.
At least the atmosphere, in my opinion, was convincing. The bleakness of the apocalypse stands in stark contrast to the Christmas street decorations. The mood is quite grim. You encounter stray dogs, corpses lie on the street ‒ everything is marked by decay and ruin. This post-apocalyptic setting has convinced me, yes.
I would also like to say a word about the graphics of the Closed Beta: the graphics are good, undoubtedly, and on all platforms. Whether you admire the lighting effects or want to count the snowflakes in a quiet moment, both are possible with the graphics. But I didn’t find it overwhelming overall. Especially when looking at the indistinct faces of the characters that show no expression, you think you have seen better. In brief, the graphics are decent but do not set new milestones.
On the next page: Our assessment of the gameplay and the story.
