Pokémon GO: We asked Niantic about the “bad” boxes and broken events – This is the answer

Franzi Korittke Franzi Korittke Reading time 3 minutes

In recent weeks, the developers of Pokémon GO have faced harsh criticism repeatedly. We at MeinMMO have therefore asked them for a statement and show you how Niantic is dealing with this backlash.

What issue is there with Pokémon GO? For weeks now, Pokémon GO has been under criticism from trainers. The reason for this is the numerous changes in the game, some of which were made without further announcements.

These include, among other things, the removal of the adventure box and weekly box, but also the secret changes to the contents of the other boxes in the in-game shop. A lack of communication from the developers is also repeatedly criticized. For example, the YouTuber Spieletrend gave a harsh assessment on this.

But how do the developers stand on the players’ reactions and their changes? We wanted to know more from MeinMMO and asked Niantic.

“We strive to provide all players with the best gaming experience”

What did we want to know? In our inquiry to Niantic, we primarily addressed the topics that are repeatedly criticized in the reddit community and other social networks. We particularly focused on the changes to the boxes and the associated lack of communication.

But we also addressed other issues in the game, such as missing event stickers or the delayed activation of content, and asked for a corresponding statement.

What has Niantic responded? Unfortunately, we did not receive precise answers to MeinMMO’s specific questions regarding the (secret) changes to the boxes, around the developer diary, and the broken events.

However, the developers assured us that they strive to share important information with the global community. Due to the numerous good things happening in the game, however, it is necessary to weigh carefully which content is included in the updates.

They continue to be committed to providing all players with the best possible gaming experience. In order to hold the best event launches in the future, the insights gained are an integral part of their active discussion. Specifically, we were told the following:

We will always strive to share important information with our valued community of trainers worldwide. With so many updates and good things happening in and around the game, we naturally have to decide every day what to include in these updates.

We are committed to providing all players, no matter where in the world they are, with the best gaming experience and will continue to take this responsibility very seriously. We take the lessons we’ve learned and actively discuss how best to use the insights for future event launches.

Niantic

Why does the changes cause so much criticism?

Poor Boxes: Looking at footage of the older boxes, such as the adventure box or hyperbox, one quickly realizes that they were primarily geared towards raids and hatching eggs. Players could purchase corresponding items such as incubators or raid passes for relatively few coins.

Especially the remote raid passes are very popular among players, as they allow participation in raids in other regions of the world from afar. However, players now have to pay a lot for such items. Niantic increased the costs for remote raid passes a few months ago and ultimately removed them from the weekly boxes.

Pokémon-GO-Hyperbox
Comparison Hyperbox in September 2019 (left) and in September 2022 (right)

Lack of communication: However, the changes to the boxes are not the only reason for the harsh criticism, as the lack of communication from the developers is also a recurring topic. Trainers have been demanding at least transparent communication for a long time.

In 2021, the community wrote an open letter to the developers regarding the removal of various corona bonuses and called for a boycott under the campaign #HearUsNiantic.

Finally, Niantic publicly responded to the reactions of the trainers. They reverted the controversial PokéStop changes and assured better communication. However, according to many players, there is hardly any sign of that anymore.

Even the regular updates as part of the so-called “developer diary,” which Niantic introduced as a result of the HearUsNiantic campaign last year and was supposed to provide monthly updates, are becoming increasingly rare.

Whether Niantic will actually take the players’ criticism to heart and make future communication more transparent, and whether the boxes will return, remains to be seen for now. However, if there are new updates on this, you can find out on MeinMMO.

More about Pokémon GO:

What’s your opinion on Niantic’s statement? Did you wish for more concrete answers from the developers? Or do you think the community’s criticism is unjustified? Let us know here on MeinMMO in the comments and exchange ideas with other trainers.

In the coming days, it will get spooky in Pokémon GO. We will show you all the new monsters, shinies, and bonuses for the Halloween event 2022.

This is an AI-powered translation. Some inaccuracies might exist.

CoD Modern Warfare 2 shows the most important multiplayer content – weapons, operator, maps & modes

Maik Schneider Maik Schneider Reading time 4 minutes

Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 2 will be released on October 28. In a blog post, the developers have now published further details about the content for the release. While not all details are available yet, we are collecting what we already know about the release content here for you on MeinMMO.

Slowly but surely, it is starting: The release of Modern Warfare 2 is just around the corner. From October 20, the first pre-orders can rock the campaign, before the official release is on October 28.

For many players, the multiplayer mode is the focus. That’s why we are collecting the multiplayer content that you can expect at the launch in the game. With a click, you can go to the information you are looking for:

We don’t know all the details yet and can’t list all the weapons or maps. However, what is already known can be found here. To get you in the mood for the multiplayer mode, CoD has already released a celebrity trailer:

Start video
Modern Warfare 2 brings trailer with star power – but ‘Squad Up’ fails with many players

CoD MW2: Release Content – Over 50 weapons

What is already known? There will be over 50 unique weapons at launch, spread across 33 weapon platforms. These platforms will partially replace the traditional system with weapon levels.

You unlock these platforms through your account level and then must play these weapons to unlock further weapons. Up to 6 weapons can be unlocked per platform. They then share some important attachments. Details on the new gunsmith can be found here.

From the beta of MW2, we already know the M4 platform, featuring classics like the M4 or the burst-fire rifle M16, and the Lachmann platform, which includes the MP5.

CoD is already showing how many weapons of each class are in the game:

  • 10 assault rifles
  • 4 battle rifles (single-shot)
  • 7 submachine guns
  • 4 shotguns
  • 6 LMGs
  • 6 DMRs
  • 3 snipers
  • combat shield
  • 5 pistols
  • 4 launchers
  • one melee weapon

Many of the weapons will be discovered in the campaign. You can actually play them much earlier than the multiplayer. All the information about the release dates of MW2 can be found here:

More on the topic
CoD Modern Warfare 2 actually has 3 release dates – When will the campaign, multiplayer & Warzone 2.0 come out?
von Maik Schneider

CoD MW2: Release Content – 25 operators

What is already known? With CoD MW2, the factions return to Call of Duty. So you will always need to select 2 operators for your matches – depending on which side you are fighting on, you will have a different operator.

7 will be available to you at launch, while 18 can be unlocked through challenges in multiplayer and the campaign.

The two factions at launch are named Specgru and Kortac. Here are the operators of Specgru:

And here are the operators of Kortac:

These are the 23 operators in the game with their own backstory. The remaining 2 operators are the Mil-Sim operators – nameless soldiers who will receive many skins over time that look more generic, such as a police uniform.

The “Oni” operator of Kortac is currently reserved for PlayStation. The operator is part of the digital pre-order of MW2 but is only available for players on PS4 and PS5.

More on the topic
CoD Modern Warfare 2: Everything about the campaign – Missions, Rewards & Early Access
von Maik Schneider

CoD MW2: Release Content – Modes and maps

What is already known? Currently, we only know the specific number of modes at launch: 10 modes for the normal maps and 2 modes for the large maps of Ground War. Due to the beta phase, we can already roughly say which modes will be in the game:

  • Normal modes
    • Search & Destroy
    • Team Deathmatch
    • Free-for-All
    • Domination
    • Hardpoint
    • Third-Person Mode
    • Knock-Out
    • Hostage Rescue
  • Ground War
    • Ground War (Capture Positions)
    • Invasion (TDM Rules)

Currently, it is also possible that the modes from the beta could change. However, experience from recent years has shown that the contents of the beta are also directly available in the full game.

For the maps, we can already list some from the beta:

  • 6vs6 maps
    • Valderas Museum
    • Breenbergh Hotel
    • Farm 18
    • Mercado Las Almas
  • Ground War maps
    • Sarrif Bay
    • Sa’Id

Additionally, it has been confirmed that the map “Marina Bay Grand Prix” will be included at launch. It takes place on a Formula 1 racetrack.

Many maps actually take place in 2 specific areas of the world: In Al Mazrah, the later Warzone map, and in Las Almas, Mexico.

How many 6vs6 maps CoD MW2 delivers at launch cannot be said for sure yet. CoD MW 2019 had the lowest number of release maps to date, launching with only 6 6vs6 maps. Cold War had 8, Vanguard a strong 14.

All already known or leaked maps have been collected for you in the following article:

More on the topic
CoD MW2: All Maps for Multiplayer 2022 Overview
von Christos Tsogos

CoD MW2: Release Content – Co-op mode “Spec-Ops”

What is already known? In the co-op mode, CoD MW2 returns to its roots. You will be served a duo mode, and often the players’ tasks in a mission will differ.

As an example, the developers mentioned a mission where one player carries out their mission on the ground while the second player helps with supporting fire from the air.

At launch, 3 missions will be available, with players on the later Warzone map Al Mazrah:

  • Low Profile
    • Stealth mission where you gather reconnaissance data
  • Denied Area
    • Vehicle mission where you need to destroy something
  • Defender: Mt. Zaya
    • Horde mission where more enemies come with each wave

As with the multiplayer mode, more missions for Spec-Ops will be added over time.

More about Call of Duty on MeinMMO:

As soon as there is new information about the release content, we will update the information. The first content drop will come on November 16, and Season 1 will start. New maps, modes, and weapons will already be added here.

On December 14, the mid-season will start with more content – including the new PvE raids and some legendary maps. Here, the first remakes of old maps could already come into play.

Let us know in the comments which old map you think the developers should bring directly and what else you think of the release content.

If you would like to read more about the new CoD content this year, check out our big info article on Warzone 2.0: CoD Warzone 2.0 will be a whole new Battle Royale – release, map, and DMZ mode

This is an AI-powered translation. Some inaccuracies might exist.
Source(s):
  1. Call of Duty

WoW: Just before the launch, Blizzard makes the Dracthyr even faster

Cortyn Cortyn Reading time 2 minutes

The new class in World of Warcraft has become even better. Blizzard has made considerable adjustments to their racial abilities.

The Evokers are a new race-class combo in World of Warcraft, which you can play soon. However, just before the end of the beta, Blizzard has made some changes to this class that make it even cooler. The flying ability of the Evokers has been adjusted again and is now almost as good as dragon riding.

What is the problem? For the Evokers, “dragon riding” is in direct competition with their racial ability “Soar”. This is essentially a watered-down version of dragon riding that can be used anywhere in the world but does not offer as significant advantages as the skill for all players.

This is a problem because especially in the new content – that is, on the Dragon Isles – the “Soar” ability is always significantly worse than dragon riding.

Start video
4 Minutes of Gameplay for Dragon Riding, the new feature in WoW Dragonflight

What has Blizzard changed? At launch, several dragon riding talents will also work for the racial ability of the Evokers. In other words: When you improve your dragon riding, the racial ability of the Evokers also improves simultaneously. The following changes will be made:

  • The maximum speed of the Evoker racial ability will increase to match the maximum of the dragon riding ability.
  • Several talents drastically reduce the cooldown of the Evoker racial ability, down to a minimum of one minute.
  • The winds of the isles will also affect the Evoker racial ability after unlocks.

However, please note that these buffs only work on the Dragon Isles. Outside the isles, in the rest of World of Warcraft, the racial ability retains its old functionality. Since all other characters cannot use dragon riding here anyway, the “weakened” Soar is still a significant advantage.

More about World of Warcraft can be found here on MeinMMO:

Why has Blizzard changed this? The criticism from the WoW community regarding the Evokers’ racial ability was quite loud. It was frequently mentioned in the forums that “Soar” may seem interesting on paper but is hardly used in practice on the Dragon Isles. On the Dragon Isles, dragon riding is significantly faster and more efficient for all players than the Evokers’ racial ability.

It didn’t feel right that this ability was useless particularly in the new areas.

Thus, the Evokers have become significantly more interesting just before launch, and soon you will be able to glide through the skies with them.

Are you looking forward to the Evokers? Or are you still not able to get used to the scaled, new heroes?

This is an AI-powered translation. Some inaccuracies might exist.
Source(s):
  1. us.forums.blizzard.com/

Destiny 2: King’s Fall – How to master the final raid challenge ‘Hands off’

Britta ♤ BeAngel Britta ♤ BeAngel Reading time 2 minutes

This week, the first “Kingsfall” will be bustling in Destiny 2. This title is the award for players who have successfully completed all Kingsfall raid challenges in recent weeks. But the challenges are good for more than just that. Anyone who wants some more top loot should know about them. MeinMMO explains how they work.

Currently, the last challenge in Bungie’s latest legacy raid “Kingsfall” is active. Those who master it have not only a title in sight. In the basic version of the raid, players receive an additional loot chest for completing one of the raid challenges, allowing them to receive double rewards. So, more of the prestigious weapons and armor for everyone.

What is a raid challenge? The so-called challenges in the raids of Destiny 2 are additional tasks that players can tackle in the PvE endgame.

Specifically, the challenges restrict your normal, accustomed play style in a special way. Depending on which challenge is currently active, you have to coordinate differently to master it in the end.

Every week a different challenge is active, and it usually only takes place in a specific raid encounter or phase. MeinMMO will inform you on Tuesdays in the weekly Weekly Reset about which challenge it is and where it takes place.

In the raid “Kingsfall”, there are a total of five such encounters – the jumping passages are excluded from the challenges. They rotate weekly, but not in random order.

kingsfall-raid-destiny2-kingsfall-season18-challenge-fingerweg-oryx-hand
For the last challenge, you must pass Oryx, the raid boss from Kingsfall.

How to succeed in the challenge: “Hands off”

Where does the challenge take place? For the

This is an AI-powered translation. Some inaccuracies might exist.

New setting in FIFA 23 helps you not to play offside – Here’s how to activate it

Julian Schröder Julian Schröder Reading time 2 minutes

In FIFA 23 there is a new and extremely useful setting that shows you when your players are offside. We will tell you how to activate the setting and also what the current problem with it is.

The offside rule can be quite annoying. You play a dream pass over 30 meters and your striker is only a few centimeters ahead of the last opposing defender, so the virtual linesman knows no mercy. He raises his flag and you can forget the attack.

However, a new setting in FIFA 23 now helps you prevent such frustrating offside situations.

More about FIFA 23 on MeinMMO:

What is this setting? In FIFA 23, there is a new setting that is probably aimed more at FIFA newcomers: The offside display. When you turn this on, a flag icon appears over your players’ heads as soon as they are offside.

A useful hint that quickly signals to you not to press the pass button.

Here you can see what it looks like in the game:

Here are 2 players offside.

How to activate the handy offside help

Activating the new offside help is quite simple. Here’s how to do it:

  1. Start a game, regardless of the mode.
  2. Press pause.
  3. Go to “Trainer”.
  4. Turn on the “FIFA Trainer”.
  5. Activate “Offside Display” at the bottom.
  6. Go back to the match.

However, the new offside help has a problem: Players have to activate the setting every time they play. Whenever you close FIFA 23, the game does not save the setting. So if you want to play with the offside display, you always have to remember to pause the game and adjust the settings again.

In the Subreddit for FIFA, however, some players claim that saving the offside display in the main menu of FIFA 23 helps. Others, however, advise against it, as the game does not save the setting there either. Please let us know in the comments what works for you.

If you are still looking for a strong formation for your team, then take a look here:

This is an AI-powered translation. Some inaccuracies might exist.

Find Your Next Game – Tech: An Overview of October 19th

Benedikt Schlotmann Benedikt Schlotmann Reading time 2 minutes

As in the past year, GamePro, GameStar, and MeinMMO present a packed theme week focusing on technology and hardware.

What is it about? Starting Monday, October 17, we will focus together with GameStar and GamePro for a week until October 23 on everything that falls under the category of technology.

On MeinMMO, you can expect articles and reports about PC gaming, PS5, and Xbox, as well as various gadgets that we have been able to try out for you. On GameStar and GamePro, you will find reports on current graphics cards, cloud gaming, and TV technology.

If you are only interested in games, not much will change for you: FYNG Tech is an additional offer for tech enthusiasts, but also newcomers, which expands but does not determine our daily reporting.

On MeinMMO, you will continue to find all the news about your favorite games, Twitch streamers, and other news from the gaming sector.

You can find all highlights on MeinMMO, GameStar, and GamePro here

Livestream from October 19 to 21

You will not only be able to expect fresh content on the websites of GamePro, GameStar, and Mein-MMO, but our joint Twitch channel Monsters and Explosions will also be heavily involved. There, you will be informed daily from October 19 to 21 at 6 PM for five hours about current and future developments regarding technology and hardware.

Here you can follow Monsters and Explosions on Twitch:

Our Tech Program on Monsters and Explosions

What can you expect in the livestream? We have assembled a schedule for you with what we have planned for MAX and when you can expect which topics:

The highlights on the websites of GamePro, GameStar, and MeinMMO

What content can you expect on the websites? If you prefer reading instead of watching, you will find numerous articles on current tech and hardware topics on the pages of GameStar, GamePro, and MeinMMO.

To ensure you don’t miss any of them and also know what is happening on our partner pages, we have summarized all articles for you both on GameStar Tech and here in the article.

October 17:

October 18

October 19

More news about hardware: Do you want to read more about tech and hardware? Then check out our colleagues at GameStar Tech. Here you will find all info about FYNG Tech and other exciting news around graphics cards, technology, and much more:

GameStar Tech – Everything you need to know about tech and hardware

This is an AI-powered translation. Some inaccuracies might exist.

WoW player hunts a rare mount for 12 years – finally finds it, but in the wrong game

Marius Mach Marius Mach Reading time 3 minutes

In World of Warcraft, there are many players who have made it their mission to collect as many mounts or transmogs as possible. However, acquiring particularly rare mounts requires a lot of patience and perseverance. One player tried for 12 years without success, to obtain a certain mount in WoW – but he finally succeeded, though in WotLK Classic.

Which mount is it? The “Reins of the Headless Horseman” (via wowhead) is a particularly rare mount that you can obtain in both modern WoW and WoW Classic. However, there is a major catch.

The mount is only available for a few days each year during the Hallow’s End event – the in-game Halloween event. Additionally, the mount has an extremely low drop chance of only 0.25-0.3 percent.

There are now websites that help with mount farming, but a drop still requires a lot of luck.

More from the community: 2 players are kicked from the group in WotLK Classic before they can loot – still winning every item

Why is it the “wrong” game? A player has now had bad luck with luck, as after 12 years of farming, he finally got his desired mount (via reddit). Unfortunately, it was in WoW Classic. The collection there does not transfer to “Retail” WoW.

On reddit, the community congratulates the lucky mount owner, with many praising his perseverance. Other players report that they have themselves tried over 2,000 times to get the mount.

There is often a lot of passion in this hobby, and the emotions are correspondingly high. One player screamed with joy when he received his desired mount after 4 years.

More about rare mounts in World of Warcraft:

Start video
6 of the rarest mounts in WoW – Do you own them?

The best strategy to obtain the rare mount

How do you get the mount in WotLK Classic? If you want to defeat the Headless Horseman in WotLK, you must go to the graveyard of the Scarlet Monastery in Tirisfal, which is haunted by ghosts. During Hallow’s End, you will find a jack-o’-lantern there. This holds a quest for you that allows you to summon the Headless Horseman. The boss himself is not particularly difficult and can be easily defeated by groups with little gear.

However, you should note that you can only summon this boss once per character per day. This means that you have a maximum of 5 chances for the rare drop per character. Make sure that none of your group members have already completed the quest.

More about WoW Classic:

How do you get the mount in modern WoW? To defeat the Headless Horseman in modern WoW, you must first sign up for the event in the group finder. Once a group has been found for you, you will be directly transported to the dungeon. The fight against the Headless Horseman is largely identical to the version in WoW Classic and presents hardly any challenge in modern WoW as well.

Per character, you can participate in this event once a day. However, in modern WoW, you have a significant advantage: Your mounts are bound to your account. Therefore, it doesn’t matter on which of your characters you complete the event. If you complete the event with multiple characters, you also have multiple chances to get the mount.

Here you can find all the details about the event in WoW:

More on the topic
WoW: The Headless Horseman at the Hallow’s End – This is how you start the fight, this is the loot
von Cortyn

Have you already caught the Headless Horseman’s horse? Or do you find yourself going to the Scarlet Monastery daily until Hallow’s End is over? Feel free to let us know in the comments!

The Hallow’s End and other events are popular activities for players who have reached the maximum level to get some variety. Here you can find more tips:

WoW WotLK Classic: Level 80 – what’s next? Guide with tips for fresh 80s

This is an AI-powered translation. Some inaccuracies might exist.
Source(s):
  1. reddit.com

The lead designer of Fallout 76 has died – fans say: “He made the game good”

Benedict Grothaus Benedict Grothaus Reading time 2 minutes

On October 15, 2022, Eric “Ferret” Baudoin, the lead designer of Fallout 76 and many other games, passed away. Every RPG fan probably knows at least one of his quests. Fans mourn the loss, seeing a piece of their childhood fade with him.

Who is the lead designer? Ferret Baudoin, whose real name is actually Eric, had been employed at Bethesda as a senior designer since 2012. There, he recently worked as the lead designer for Fallout 76 and on the upcoming Starfield.

His responsibilities primarily included designing quests that tell the story in role-playing games. He took over the tasks for Fallout 76 mainly after the launch, and his work is particularly praised by players in the Wastelanders update, which is considered a major turning point for the game.

“He worked on so many games I grew up with”

Baudoin had previously worked at BioWare, Obsidian, Black Isle Studios, and Cyberlore. Some of his most notable works include story and quest designs for:

  • Fallout 4
  • Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic 2
  • Dragon Age: Origins
  • Dragon Age II
  • Dragon Age: Inquisition
  • Neverwinter Nights 2

The response among fans of the games is enormous. Particularly, Baudoin’s work on Fallout 76 is seen as the reason why the game was ultimately considered good despite initially extremely negative feedback.

Many players grew up with games like Dragon Age. His former colleagues also mourn him. From the former project lead of Fallout 76, Jeff Gardiner, it’s said on Twitter:

I am heartbroken. Ferret Baudoin took on the role of lead designer for Fallout 76 with Wastelanders. An eternal optimist and a good friend. We had lunch together multiple times since I left Bethesda. He will be greatly missed.

Jeff Gardiner, former project lead

Baudoin was the only person Gardiner knew who had played more role-playing games than he himself.

Kenneth Vigue, with whom Baudoin worked on the charity organization “Fallout For Hope,” shared on reddit that Baudoin died due to complications from a cancer surgery. His death came unexpectedly.

Baudoin’s death led to a fundraiser for his survivors. Through BuyMeACoffee, fans can donate money to enable the deceased designer’s children to attend college. Those who are not comfortable with direct donations but still wish to help can also, according to Vigue, donate in Baudoin’s name to the American Cancer Society.

Vigue and Fallout For Hope are currently planning a tribute video for Baudoin, organizing memorials in Fallout 76, and want to hold an obituary at the cosplay event for the 25th anniversary of Fallout on October 22.

This is an AI-powered translation. Some inaccuracies might exist.

ESO: Witch Festival 2022 – How to Secure Double XP and Other Spooky Rewards

MiezeMelli MiezeMelli Reading time 5 minutes

In the MMORPG The Elder Scrolls Online, the annual Witchfest event is coming up. It starts on October 20, 2022. MyMMO reveals all the details about this year’s Witchfest and how to get your rewards.

When is the Witchfest event? It starts on October 20, 2022, at 4:00 PM CEST and runs until Tuesday, November 2, at 3:00 PM CET. So, remember the time change!

What is the Witchfest? It’s a Halloween event in ESO. It is one of the events that also has a 100% experience bonus. So, if you have any unfinished characters, you should take advantage of the last days. The experience bonus can also be combined with potions and scrolls.

Learn more in our guide on how to gain a massive amount of experience (XP) in a short time.

How to participate in the Witchfest

First, you need to purchase the Crowcaller in the Crown Store. This item can be found in the “Holiday” category or in the showcase. Once you use it, you unlock the quest “Trade of the Witchmother.” After you complete this quest, you will receive a memento: the Witchmother’s Pipe.

If you completed the quest last year, you can simply reuse your memento. You do not have to repeat the quest. It’s best to place the memento in your quick access during the event. You can access it through your inventory (I) by clicking on the quick access icon.

There you can now add some items that you can use directly with a key (default setting: Q).

When you use your memento, you will receive a 100% experience bonus for 2 hours. Additionally, the Witchmother’s Cauldron will appear. When you use this, you transform into a spooky skeleton. If you do not like this appearance, you can of course deactivate it right away.

How do I deactivate the Witchfest transformation?

Open your character menu (C) and scroll down to the bottom. There you will see the effects affecting you. If you click on the transformation effect, it will disappear.

These rewards are available at the Witchfest

Besides the experience bonus, you will also receive loot skulls. These are rewards from leaders. It doesn’t matter which leader. There is loot:

  • Vault bosses
  • Bosses of a public dungeon
  • Dungeon bosses
  • Bosses in trials
  • World bosses

You can recognize the leaders / bosses by the skull symbol marked on your map. With these add-ons, you can also make bosses visible on the map that you wouldn’t otherwise see:

Overview of special Witchfest rewards

ESO - Hourglass of Alkosh
This year at the Witchfest, there is the first fragment for the Hourglass of Alkosh. This allows you to adjust the time of day in your home.
RewardsSource
Loot skullsLeaders / bosses
Dremora loot skull1st boss per day
Up to 2 event tickets per day1st loot skull per day
Experience bonus (100%)Witchmother’s Pipe
Witch-tamed bear dog (companion)10 fragments:
Bone dust pigment
Bone dust pigmentDremora loot skull (chance)
plentiful chest
Runebox: Memento “Grim Haunting” NEWDremora loot skull (chance)
plentiful chest
Event ticket merchant (Impresario)
Runebox: Style Page “Witchmother’s Servant”
(armor style) NEW		Dremora loot skull (chance)
plentiful chest
Event ticket merchant (Impresario)
Witchfest scribesDremora loot skull (chance)
Costume style pages:
Glenmoril Wyrd (armor)
Glenmoril Wyrd (weapons) from Glenmoril treasure maps
Dancer of the Grave (weapons)		Dremora loot skull (chance)
plentiful chest
Chapter: Crafting style of the DremoraDremora loot skull (chance)
Style book: Crafting style of the Dremoraplentiful chest
Transient Change Stone (companion):
Daedric Firestone
Runestone-etched Hammer
Glowing Bloodgrass Root		Event ticket merchant (Impresario)
1st fragment: Sanctified Hourglass of Alkosh NEW
Glassblower tools with engraving		Event ticket merchant (Impresario)
Witch grab bag:
Collectibles from previous years		Event ticket merchant (Impresario)
Guild recommendations for companionsEvent ticket merchant (Impresario)
Group repair materialsEvent ticket merchant (Impresario)
Furniture items:
Ruby fly flicker
Conical nets
Probe, Ersatzgehirn
Pumpkin grin lantern, Ouroboros
vampiric lamp, large with azure light
vampiric street lamp, single-armed with azure light		Event ticket merchant (Impresario)
Feathers (growing Indrik)Nenulauure (Indrik merchant)
Indrik berries:
Pure snow
Purple		Nenulauure (Indrik merchant)
Frostlight Indrik (companion)Nenulauure (Indrik merchant)
Rose thorn Indrik (companion)Nenulauure (Indrik merchant)

Additionally, you will also receive smaller rewards from normal loot skulls:

  • Recipes for Witchfest (Provisioner)
  • Furniture and furnishing plans for Witchfest
  • Alchemy reagents
  • Style materials for Dremora & Pumpkin Grin
  • Witchfest-themed treasures

If you’re interested in more about ESO, you might also find this appealing:

How to get many rewards during the event

Take down as many bosses as possible

To maximize your rewards, you need to collect as many loot skulls as possible. You need to defeat as many bosses as you can. Once per day, you can get up to 7 golden loot skulls.

You earn these 7 golden skulls by defeating each of the following bosses:

  1. Last boss of an arena (Maelstrom, Vateshran, Dragonstar arena, and Blackrose Prison)
  2. One boss from anchors, geysers, and storm events or dragons
  3. A vault boss
  4. The final boss of a dungeon
  5. Boss in a public dungeon, in the Imperial City, or a quest boss
  6. Last boss of a trial
  7. A world boss

With the first golden loot skull, you will also receive the event tickets for that day. If you still need event tickets to exchange for a specific item at the event ticket merchant, you can also purchase more event tickets in the Crown Store (250 crowns each).

However, be aware that you can only hold 12 event tickets at a time. Redeem these first before buying or gathering more. You can earn up to 28 event tickets during the event.

Combine the skull hunt with daily quests

You can easily combine the skull hunt with the daily quests from the following areas:

  • Rift (base game)
  • Wrothgar (Orsinium)
  • Vvardenfell (Morrowind)
  • Clockwork City
  • Summerset
  • Murkmire
  • Northern Elsweyr (Elsweyr)
  • Southern Elsweyr (Dragonhold)
  • Western Skyrim (Greymoor)
  • Reik (Markarth)
  • Blackwood
  • Deadlands
  • High Isle

Additionally, you can share these daily quests within your group and complete several at once.

Also, the daily dungeon quests for the Undaunted or the Guilds are suitable for this. If you generally have no interest in PvE and prefer to be in PvP, you can also pick up the daily quests there and occasionally beat a boss.

What’s most important is to farm where you enjoy it. Otherwise, it can quickly become monotonous.

Trade items in your community or guild

Of course, you might get some rewards twice. But that’s no problem. You can simply trade with other players. Many others are probably in the same situation.

Check the guild traders

If you really don’t have time to play until the event ends, visit the guild traders. Currently, you can find many of the rewards at low prices.

An additional daily quest awaits you at the Witchfest

As last year, there will be the daily quest “Plucking the Raven.” You will receive the quest from the Witchmother Taerma. You will find her at both Olvive’s Brewery and with the Impresario. To complete the quest, you must find 50 cursed feathers in loot skulls.

The reward for this quest is a Dremora loot skull of the crowborn horror. You have a small chance to find a plentiful chest there. This contains particularly interesting and valuable rewards.

How’s your collecting going during the Witchfest? Have you experienced it before, or is this your first time? Let us know in the comments. To stay updated on all ESO events and not miss anything, check out this article: ESO Event ticker – So you can claim your rewards by the end of 2022.

This post will be continuously updated to keep you informed in the future.

This is an AI-powered translation. Some inaccuracies might exist.

Players in an ancient MMORPG have become too strong over the years – Now they are being nerfed

Marie Friske Marie Friske Reading time 3 minutes

Tibia is one of the classic MMORPGs. This year, the game turns 25 years old. Some players have apparently become exceedingly strong over the long time and have achieved levels in the four-digit range. A nerf is now intended to remedy this.

Which MMORPG is it? The game is Tibia, one of the oldest MMORPGs ever. It comes from the game studio CipSoft and was released in 1997. At the beginning of 2022, the game celebrated its 25th anniversary.

The game boomed in 2020 so much that the employees received a significant pay raise.

Even though the game is somewhat older, it still has loyal fans today. Apparently, players have been actively playing Tibia for many years, becoming so strong that a nerf is needed to reduce the scaling of the values “damage” and “healing” per level.

Here you see the trailer for an MMORPG that combines Tibia and Ultima Online:

Start video
New old-school MMORPG mixes Tibia and Ultima Online – Lets you manage the entire world

“Many already have characters over level 1000”

What does the nerf of the players look like? The nerf refers to the “damage” and “healing” of a character. The influence of levels on these two values will be reduced.

There is a new scaling regarding how much the values of damage and healing increase when higher levels are reached:

  • Up to level 500: no change, damage and healing +1 every 5 levels
  • Levels 501-1100: damage and healing +1 every 6 levels
  • Levels 1101-1800: damage and healing +1 every 7 levels
  • Levels 1801-2600: damage and healing +1 every 8 levels
  • Levels 2601-3500: damage and healing +1 every 9 levels
  • Above level 3500 it continues with the same logic (steps of 500, 600, 700, etc.)

Why are the players getting nerfed? According to the community manager of Tibia, the speed at which characters level up has accelerated, resulting in: “Many already have characters over level 1000” (via tibia.com).

The problem: Even at these extremely high levels, the character values of “damage” and “healing” continue to increase – every 5 levels by a value of 1.

The previous scaling of the values no longer works this way since players simply have too strong characters too quickly.

Furthermore, the game makers want to shift the focus of Tibia more towards equipment and skills.

This change also applies retroactively. This means: For characters over level 500, the damage and healing will now be lower depending on the current level than before the nerf.

In the end, the community managers of the game studio write: “We know this is a significant step, but it is necessary for the balance of the game, especially since the upcoming ‘Skill Wheel’ will make characters overall stronger than they were before tomorrow’s adjustment” (tibia.com).

More about MMORPGs can be found here:

What is the ‘Skill Wheel’? The ‘Skill Wheel’ is intended to be added as a new feature in the winter update for the game. A sneak peek from Tibia provides information about it:

This feature will allow the player further specialization of their character based on individual preferences and play style. The character receives points with each level, which can then be used to unlock further advantages.

Among the advantages are small changes, such as an “increase in total hit points”, but also stronger effects like access to a new spell.

What do you think about the player nerf in Tibia? Feel free to write it to us in the comments.

Here you will find an interview from MeinMMO with Stephan Vogler, one of the founders of the game studio behind Tibia.

This is an AI-powered translation. Some inaccuracies might exist.
Source(s):
  1. www.tibia.com/

AIs create fantastic images, now this could come for music – The people from CoD hold the patent for it

Benedikt Schlotmann Benedikt Schlotmann Reading time 2 minutes

Activision Blizzard, the company behind Call of Duty (CoD) and WoW, has secured the rights to a special patent. The focus is primarily on enhancing user experience. An AI is supposed to be responsible for this. But how exactly is this supposed to work?

A registered patent is intended to protect technical inventions or innovative products from undesirable imitation. Many of them do not necessarily make it to a final product, but some patents have at least made it in a stripped-down form to the PS5.

Now a patent from Activision Blizzard has been discovered that is supposed to bring a special improvement for players. It is about the soundtrack that you must hear in the game – unless you have already turned off the music beforehand.

If you leave your music on, you can find good headset and headphone recommendations here:

More on the topic
The best gaming headsets you can buy in 2025
von Benedikt Schlotmann

AI is supposed to ensure that every gamer gets to hear individual music

What kind of patent is this? Activision Blizzard has registered a patent. The idea behind it is to create individual soundtracks for players using machine learning. Each player is supposed to end up hearing a soundtrack that is tailored to their individual situation.

What exactly is behind this? Activision Blizzard writes in the patent application about a “Dynamic generation and modulation of music based on game events, player profiles, and/or player reactions.”

This means: If you are fighting against a specific boss or are under intense pressure from the game, the AI can react to this and play you the appropriate music. In this way, it can emphasize your feelings or intensify emotions.

According to the patent, the software is supposed to analyze the “mood” of the location where the player is currently located in the game and then generate corresponding music. For gamers who turn off the music right at the beginning of the game, this patent may become less relevant. For all others, however, it means being able to immerse themselves even deeper into the game. In technical terms, this is called “immersion.”

When this AI technology will come is currently unknown

When is this technology supposed to come to the games? Since this is currently only a patent, it may take some time for its implementation. Manufacturers often register patents and then “take their time” with the implementation.

Other interesting patents: Not all patents excite gamers. For example, Sony introduced a patent that caused a lot of excitement. Here, the option was presented for viewers to determine who should participate in a match and who should be kicked:

A new patent from Sony would turn PS4 and PS5 into a paradise for trolls

This is an AI-powered translation. Some inaccuracies might exist.
Source(s):
  1. www.gamespot.com

Streamer threatens to rape someone – Twitch bans him permanently at first, but now he is more successful than ever

Schuhmann Schuhmann Reading time 3 minutes

The streamer erobb221 was just banned from Twitch for a month. Actually, his ban was supposed to be permanent. But now he is more successful than ever. The brother of LoL streamer Tyler1 gets a contract with Team SoloMid. TSM is the largest e-sports team in the USA for League of Legends.

Who is erobb221?

  • The 26-year-old is a Twitch streamer with about 414,000 followers. He has nearly 4,000 viewers on average.
  • He mostly hangs out in Just Chatting, but also plays games like Elden Ring or Minecraft.
  • Erobb221 is the younger brother of Tyler1, one of the biggest streamers on Twitch, who plays League of Legends around the clock. Tyler1 is known for portraying a character: a macho streamer who believes he is the greatest and only communicates with the outside world while shouting and cursing.
Start video
How the Worst Troll from Twitch Became the Face of League of Legends

Twitch streamer threatened to beat someone up at TwitchCon

What was he banned for? Erobb was banned from Twitch on September 8 for a month. This was unfortunate because he was heavily involved in the “Shit Camp” event by QTCinderella and could not participate: anyone who is banned from Twitch cannot take part on Twitch – not even on others’ channels.

The streamer stated: He was banned because he threatened to beat up a viewer at TwitchCon (via twitter). Generally, a threat of violence results in a permanent ban on Twitch, as also noted by the German streamer Flying Uwe.

As was later revealed, Erobb’s Twitch ban was actually supposed to be permanent, but he successfully appealed and reduced his ban to 1 month. The ban expired on October 15.

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This is his success now: The e-sports organization TSM signed him on October 17 as a streamer.

 In the announcement, TSM makes many references to Tyler1, whom many TSM fans know from LoL:

  • TSM claims to have signed the “biggest ALPHA” on Twitch, but then does not introduce Erobb, but his brother Tyler1.
  • Both Tyler1 and Erobb are described as muscular 2-meter-tall men – with steel necks that can stop an ice giant with their bare fists.
  • When it turns out that TSM is not getting Tyler1 but his brother, Tyler1 reacts with his usual anger. He stands in front of his brother and asks if this twig is supposed to be 2 meters tall.
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What is the gag? Tyler1 claims to be 2 meters tall, but is actually only 1.68 m tall. A joke that many chuckled at, especially when photos surfaced showing Tyler1 standing next to a woman who was 1.82 m tall and wearing high heels.

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However, Tyler1 claimed: That’s deceptive; of course, he is 2 meters tall. The photo was simply taken from an unflattering angle – besides, he was surely standing in a pit.

His brother erobb is about 1.75m: That both are introduced by TSM as 2-meter alpha males is thus – like much else – meant ironically.

This is an interesting parallel: Apparently, there is a tendency towards “ups and downs” in the family:

  • For Erobb, a permanent Twitch ban and a contract with an organization were only a month apart
  • Tyler1 was banned from LoL for years, but has now even become the face of the MOBA – that’s an incredible story as well
More on the topic
LoL yields to the insane demand of a Twitch streamer, changes official profile picture
von Schuhmann

How is the announcement received? TSM states: They have signed the “stronger and more attractive brother of Tyler1. That is generally very well received by people. There are many positive comments, even from experts on how to create attention – such as YouTuber Ludwig.

The tweet has already received 1.2 million views and 74,340 likes.

TSM has been in an image and performance crisis for several months now. Such things help a lot.

LoL: The most glorious team in the USA completely messes up 2022 – a low point in 11 years

This is an AI-powered translation. Some inaccuracies might exist.

Overwatch 2: Kiriko is now playable in ranked – „She is good, but the people who play her are not“

Cortyn Cortyn Reading time 3 minutes

The latest hero from Overwatch 2, Kiriko, is now playable in competitive mode. What she can do and what you need to be careful of, we reveal here.

It has been nearly two weeks since the launch of Overwatch 2, and the grace period for the newest hero Kiriko has now ended. She has been released from her “fun hell” and can now play with the real heroes – in competitive mode.

How can you play Kiriko? If you want to play Kiriko in competitive mode, you must first unlock her. This has already happened automatically if you owned the original version of Overwatch (1). Alternatively, you need to level up the Battle Pass to level 55, and then you will receive Kiriko for free.

If you haven’t started playing Overwatch 2 yet: Unlocking through the Battle Pass takes about 40-50 hours of gameplay, although it goes a bit faster if you efficiently complete daily and weekly challenges.

Overwatch Kiriko in Battle Pass
Kiriko unlocks at level 55 of the Battle Pass as a free reward.

What can Kiriko do? Kiriko is a support character and thus a healer. Like many heroes, she needs solid targeting skills to be played efficiently. Her healing charms (primary fire) reach the target only if you accurately aim at friendly allies.

However, Kiriko can also deal solid damage. Her kunai do 40 damage on a normal hit and triple that on a headshot – a whopping 120 damage points.

Her Suzu grants nearby allies invincibility for one second and removes all negative effects on the target. The Suzu also has a slight “knockback,” so it can push enemies off a cliff.

Start video
Overwatch 2: Der animierte Kurzfilm zur Fuchs-Heldin Kiriko

Kiriko can teleport to allies, even through walls. This allows her to always escape, attack, and support the hero who needs healing.

As an ultimate ability, she conjures a blue area where allies can move faster and attack and reload significantly quicker. Cooldowns of abilities also drastically recharge in this area, making the ultimate the perfect space to lead the team to victory.

Lastly, like Genji and Hanzo, Kiriko can climb walls and reach places that are inaccessible to other heroes.

More news about Overwatch can be found here:

This is what the community says: In the Overwatch 2 community, the “ranked release” of Kiriko is already being passionately discussed. Most seem to agree that Kiriko is a very strong character with many cool abilities – but it still takes a lot of practice to really utilize them effectively. As stated in the Overwatch subreddit:

  • “Her kit is good, but the people playing her are bad. So she’s okay.”
  • “She is the first hero since Ashe who doesn’t feel broken at launch.”
  • “Kiriko is a perfect example of ‘can do everything but nothing perfectly.’ She can deal quite respectable healing and damage, but unless you get a lot of kills or your teammates are bad, Kiriko will be outperformed by DPS characters and often outshined by the other healer.”

What is your opinion on Kiriko? Are you already dominating the battlefield with the healer? Or is the character more of a disappointment?

Lastly, like Genji and Hanzo, Kiriko can climb walls and reach places that are inaccessible to other heroes.

More news about Overwatch can be found here:

This is what the community says: In the Overwatch 2 community, the “ranked release” of Kiriko is already being passionately discussed. Most seem to agree that Kiriko is a very strong character with many cool abilities – but it still takes a lot of practice to really utilize them effectively. As stated in the Overwatch subreddit:

  • “Her kit is good, but the people playing her are bad. So she’s okay.”
  • “She is the first hero since Ashe who doesn’t feel broken at launch.”
  • “Kiriko is a perfect example of ‘can do everything but nothing perfectly.’ She can deal quite respectable healing and damage, but unless you get a lot of kills or your teammates are bad, Kiriko will be outperformed by DPS characters and often outshined by the other healer.”

What is your opinion on Kiriko? Are you already dominating the battlefield with the healer? Or is the character more of a disappointment?

This is an AI-powered translation. Some inaccuracies might exist.
Source(s):
  1. reddit.com/r/overwatch/

The latest gaming table costs at least 3000 euros – manufacturer advertises luxury for gamers

Benedikt Schlotmann Benedikt Schlotmann Reading time 2 minutes

Wyrmwood is known among gamers for its high-quality furniture, and the prices are correspondingly high. The latest model is a modular gaming table for 3000 euros.

Furniture has now become part of a gamer’s workspace. Besides chairs and adequate lighting, tables are also essential. Well-known companies like Ikea are developing furniture for gamers.

Now, the company Wyrmwood has presented a new gaming table. For that, you have to pay at least 3000 euros.

More on the topic
New gaming desk wants to solve all your desk problems at once
von Benedikt Schlotmann

You can pre-order the gaming table for 3000 euros

What kind of table is it? The model is called Modular Gaming Table and was successfully funded on Kickstarter back then with nearly 9 million US dollars. 

Since Tuesday, October 18, 2022, you can order the table on Kickstarter. The device actually costs “only” 1,750 euros, but you have to “buy” into the waiting line. To be part of the first wave of furniture, you must be willing to pay 3000 euros.

The high price does not seem to deter gamers from supporting or buying. As of now (October 19), the table has 736 backers. The table is scheduled to be shipped from May 2023.

The offer on Kickstarter
More on the topic
New gadget is supposed to take care of your most important gaming tool: your hands
von Benedikt Schlotmann

What can the gaming table do? The Modular Desk is available in Standard (152.4 x 76.2 cm) and XL (198.12″ x 91.44 cm”) sizes, both in fixed height and as a motorized sit-stand desk with built-in memory, which can store three different heights. Additionally, the accessories include

  • a robust cable management solution
  • customizable storage options
  • magnetic attachments for cups, mugs, headphones, and game controllers.
  • Moreover, there are several options for mounts for microphones and lighting.

Why is it so expensive? Co-founder Ed Maranville explains in a conversation with Polygon that there are various reasons for the high price: You have to pay around 200 employees’ salaries and the whole thing is therefore sustainable.

Other companies try to solve gamers’ problems with a cheaper product. For example, a model from another company costs “only” 400 euros:

For 400 €, a company solves the huge problems you have at your desk when PC gaming

This is an AI-powered translation. Some inaccuracies might exist.

Studio behind Bayonetta defends itself against the allegations – Apparently offered the speaker much more money

Benedict Grothaus Benedict Grothaus Reading time 2 minutes

In the dispute over the new Bayonetta 3, new information has come to light. Allegedly, the former voice actress Hellena Taylor was offered $15,000. However, she supposedly demanded more, it is said.

This is the situation:

  • Hellena Taylor has been the voice of the famous witch Bayonetta in the namesake game series by Platinum Games.
  • Upon the release of Bayonetta 3, Taylor calls for a boycott, because she was allegedly only offered $4,000 for the whole game.
  • As a report from Bloomberg now explains, the payment was actually over 3 times greater. At least $15,000 was allegedly offered to Taylor. More than she had earned from the game so far.

Where does the info come from? Journalist and industry insider Jason Schreier received information about the deal from alleged employees of Platinum Games. The employees are said to have had insight into the negotiations.

According to them, Taylor was offered not $4,000, but between $3,000 and $4,000 for each of 5 recording sessions. Her total pay would thus range from $15,000 to $20,000.

The employees wish to remain anonymous as they claim to not be authorized to speak about the deal.

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Taylor allegedly demanded six-figure sums

The negotiations are said to have stalled when Taylor demanded a six-figure sum along with royalties as payment. Bayonetta creators Platinum Games then reached out to the new voice actress Jennifer Hale, who ultimately accepted.

Taylor commented to the news portal VideoGameChronicle in private messages. It was stated there that claims she was offered more than $4,000 are “categorically false” and the offer of $15,000 is “a complete lie and an absolute joke.”

Taylor wants to now leave “the whole damn franchise” behind and maintains that she has spoken the truth in her videos.

More on the topic on MeinMMO:

The Vice President of Platinum Games, Hideki Kamiya, states that he finds the attitude of untruth “sad and regrettable” (via IGN). The new voice of Bayonetta, Jennifer Hale, does not comment directly on the issue due to her confidentiality agreement but says that her reputation speaks for itself. Hale is known as the voice of Ashe in Overwatch, Tanya in Mortal Kombat, and The Red Judge in the new Metal: Hellsinger.

By the way, a similar discussion has already occurred with the popular Borderlands:

Claptrap has a new voice in Borderlands 3 and the blame lies in a dispute over money

This is an AI-powered translation. Some inaccuracies might exist.
Source(s):
  1. VGC
  2. Bloomberg

GTA Online: How to find all pumpkins and secure large and daily money gifts

Christos Tsogos Christos Tsogos Reading time 3 minutes

Halloween is also starting to spread in GTA Online. And where there are events, there are also gifts and cool actions that gangsters can pursue. This year you have to search for pumpkins in Los Santos. We will show you all the locations on a pumpkin lantern map and what you will get for your efforts.

What are pumpkins in GTA Online? The multiplayer mode of GTA brings in summer, as well as in Halloween and at Christmas often cool events and actions that players can engage in. This year, gangsters from Los Santos can go on another scavenger hunt. Pumpkins have been distributed all over the map for players to collect.

Great daily cash gifts for little effort

What do you get for all pumpkins? For collecting the pumpkins, you will of course be well rewarded. These include:

  • With 10 collected pumpkins – The horror pumpkin mask + 50,000 GTA dollars as a daily bonus
  • With all 200 pumpkins – You will receive a special t-shirt with pumpkins on it

Additionally, whenever you pick up a pumpkin lantern, you will either get something sweet or sour. This means you will either receive a cool reward like extra GTA dollars or you will be penalized and be on a drug trip.

GTA-Online-Pumpkin
This is what a pumpkin looks like in the game while it waits for you

Where are the pumpkins located? You can find the pumpkins distributed all over the “Los Santos” map. We have created for you all the exact locations using the interactive map “gtalens.com“.

GTA-Online-All-Pumpkins
These are all the pumpkins in the city
GTA-Online-All-Pumpkins-2
These are all the pumpkins in the county
The complete map divided into two maps

However, note that all pumpkins are reset daily. You can only receive 200 random sweet or sour gifts. The important thing is mainly the daily bonus in GTA dollars that you receive when you have caught 10 random pumpkins.

More about GTA Online can be found here:

If you want the t-shirt, you should collect all 200 pumpkins in one day; otherwise, your progress will reset with the daily reset. Then you will have to start over.

If you have caught all the pumpkins in one day, you can catch 10 samples daily to receive the daily 50,000 GTA dollars. If you manage to do this until the end of the event, you will have accumulated a nice sum. But be careful, you only have time until the event ends. After that, your advantages and the still available rewards will disappear.

That was all the important information about the pumpkins. What do you think of such events from Rockstar? Do you find them cool and does it make GTA Online fun again? Let us know in the comments!

This is an AI-powered translation. Some inaccuracies might exist.
Source(s):
  1. rockstar.com

FIFA 23: Best Formation – Setup Tips from the Pro

Max Handwerk Max Handwerk Reading time 3 minutes

Are you looking for a strong formation in FIFA 23? Here you will find pro tips for the right lineup.

Finding the right formation in FIFA 23 is not that easy. Depending on your own playstyle, it may make sense to set up more defensive or offensive players, focus on the wings, or dribble through the middle.

Therefore, there isn’t “the one” best formation – you have to see what suits you best.

However, a few tips can make your decision-making easier. We consulted FIFA professional Henning Wilmbusse for guidance.

Henning Wilmbusse at the Grand Final of the VBL - Photo: Hansa Rostock
Henning Wilmbusse at the Grand Final of the VBL – Photo: Hansa Rostock
Henning Wilmbusse has been playing FIFA professionally for “Hansa eFootball” since 2020 after being discovered in a scouting tournament. Last season, he reached the Top 4 of the Virtual Bundesliga with the Rostock team. He also advanced to the Top 16 of the international eChampions League.

Tips for the best formations in FIFA 23

You should keep in mind: The FIFA 23 release was not long ago and strong tactics are still evolving. “In the coming weeks, things will change a bit more. Strong formations may crystallize in the next days and weeks,” Henning explains.

Therefore, the professional recommends players at the start of the season, especially three compact and versatile formations that give you many options. These are the following lineups:

The 4-4-2:

FIFA 23 Formation
A balanced formation.

A balanced formation that is well-suited for the start of the FIFA season. “You are stable in defense, but also have enough players for attacks in offense,” says Henning.

The 4-2-2-2:

FIFA 23 Formation
The 4-2-2-2 offers CAMs instead of LM/RM.

This formation aligns with an offensive playstyle. Here you can exert quick build-up and much pressure on the opponent. This is especially useful for players who want to stand high and attack aggressively.

The 4-2-3-1:

FIFA 23 Formation
The 4-2-3-1 offers many options in the middle.

This formation is recommended by Henning for a more defensive game, allowing you to counter the opponent effectively when necessary. “You stand more compact and only have one striker. This is very good if you want to manage and carry the game over time. There is hardly any way through if you do it well.”

More about FIFA 23 on MeinMMO:

Suggestions for player instructions: Here you should closely examine which playstyle you pursue. For defensive coverage with counterattack opportunities, Henning suggests:

  • Striker: Strengthen defense, “to stay compact in the back and be able to counter quickly forward,” according to Henning.
  • CM: Stay back during attacks, cover the middle.
  • Wingers: Strengthen defense for crosses into the box.
  • Full-backs: Stay back during attacks.

In Henning’s view, a well-organized defense is currently essential, because: “This year, defending has become more difficult. You have to do more yourself,” says Wilmbusse.

Last year, the auto blocks were weakened, and now the AI in defense intervenes even less than before: “Therefore, it’s even more worthwhile to stand defensively well.”

What about the five-man defense? If you want to make it solid and build a defensive fortress, a five-man defense lineup is also a good option.

Henning has noticed how difficult it is to break through as an opponent: “I’ve noticed that the five-man defense is very strong this year and I’ve played against it many times,” he reports: “There is hardly any way through.”

Which formation do you find to be the strongest in FIFA 23? Do you have a favorite? Let us know in the comments!

And here you can find strong players in Ultimate Team that won’t cost you too many coins.

This is an AI-powered translation. Some inaccuracies might exist.

I mocked it – Now the Nintendo Switch is my purchase of the year 2022

Benedikt Schlotmann Benedikt Schlotmann Reading time 5 minutes

The Nintendo Switch was released in March 2017 and is one of the most popular gaming consoles. MeinMMO editor Benedikt Schlotmann had nothing to do with the console for years – until he finally bought it himself and was surprised.

For those who want to game after work, there are plenty of options in 2022:

  • He grabs a controller and sits down at the PlayStation or Xbox.
  • Or he opts for the Steam Deck as a mobile alternative.
  • Alternatively, he stays at the PC and switches from work to gaming.
  • Another alternative would also be the Nintendo Switch.

Especially the last option, I laughed at for a long time. Because in my eyes, the Switch could never compete with the PC or PS5. At most, I watched my girlfriend catch dozens of pocket monsters in Pokémon: Shield or take care of her plants in a farming simulation. My girlfriend loves her Switch dearly and it is a constant companion in everyday life.

But since I bought the Switch myself, I see the handheld console in a completely different light. I would even call it my purchase of the year in 2022. You can read why in the following article.

Start video
The 7 Best Free Multiplayer Games for the Nintendo Switch 2022

The Switch is considered outdated and not very powerful in 2022

What was my issue with the Switch? The Switch has been criticized for a long time. The console is criticized for not having a bright enough screen and the controllers being more suited for children’s hands than for adult gamers.

The competition authority of the United Kingdom, the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA), referred to the Switch as a “family console” that cannot compete with PlayStation and Xbox. 

The biggest criticism from fans and buyers, however, is that the hardware installed in the Switch is already outdated. Many games offer weak performance or run poorly on the Switch.

That’s why there have long been demands for a new version and corresponding rumors about a Nintendo Switch Pro. Many hope that Nintendo will use a better chip from Nvidia in the future and bring all the cool features to the Switch that PC gamers with RTX graphics cards benefit from.

I could generally agree with the criticism. Why should I invest more than 300 euros in outdated technology when a new version will eventually come?

Buying a Switch completely changes my view of the console

In the summer, I then bought the Nintendo Switch OLED for myself. This was mainly due to a really good offer. At around 260 euros for the OLED version of the Switch, I could no longer say no.

My first game on the Switch was actually the Metroidvania “Hollow Knight” and thus not an exclusive Nintendo title. I had already spent some hours on the game on PC. And I was genuinely surprised at how well the game works on the Switch, despite previously complaining about the weak hardware.

My Switch with thumbstick attachments and a hard plastic case.

I jumped and fought my way through the green path, cursed multiple times about the tough trio of the Mantis Lords, eventually reached the beautiful City of Tears, and almost despaired at the Colosseum of Fools. But that was more due to my inability than the handheld. By now, I have spent more time in “Hollow Knight” on the Switch than in all the years before with the PC version.

The Nintendo Switch has achieved something here that even the PlayStation has never managed: I actually leave my computer off after work and sit down on the couch with the Switch.

It’s this “casual” approach that keeps me hooked on this little console, which I had previously completely underestimated. I miss neither current hardware nor high FPS numbers or high-end graphics with ray tracing.

Nintendo Switch Handson 02
The grips feel a bit too small for me, but they are sufficient for a few hours in the evening.

I also love the Switch because it offers me uncomplicated gaming. For that, I’m happy to forego next-gen graphics that my PC or PS5 could deliver. There are only a few exciting exclusives, and many exclusive titles for PS4/PS5 have also been released on Steam by Sony.

However, the Switch is not perfect in my eyes, and there are plenty of things that bother me:

  • I find the grips not haptic perfect and a bit too small for my hands. A colleague then recommended other grips for the Switch.
    Bluetooth and the online mode of Pokémon Sword do not get along, which is quite annoying, as I then always have to resort to wired headphones.
  • I have to do without Discord and other tools on the Switch, and only a few games offer a proper voice chat. And that is also severely restricted.
  • The Nintendo eShop has a terrible performance on the Switch and makes shopping absolutely no fun. The sorting function is also awful; Steam or the PS Store clearly have the edge there.

Not even the Steam Deck could dethrone my Switch

What about the Steam Deck? Since September 2022, I can finally reach for the Steam Deck as well. Compared to the Switch, the device from Valve seems way too big, and especially for somewhat demanding games, the battery drains very quickly. In the MMORPGs I tested on the Steam Deck, the casing also got very hot.

And if I want to connect the Steam Deck to the monitor anyway, I might as well start the PC, where I have significantly more comfort features.

Titelbild Steam Deck MMORPG The Old Republic 03
Games like Star Wars: The Old Republic I played on the Steam Deck – I was moderately enthusiastic.

After these experiences, I quickly returned to the Switch. Since then, I have been playing Hollow Knight here again or now also Pokémon Sword. Because everything is so easy on the Nintendo handheld:

  • On the Switch, the games I want to play run smoothly and stably.
  • Nintendo’s console does not stutter like the Steam Deck or feel as hot as a hot plate.
  • When I am on the go, the Switch has a much more comfortable size than the Steam Deck and fits significantly better in my travel luggage.

In fact, there is one game that I ultimately preferred to play on the Steam Deck instead of the Switch or PC, and that is the Pokémon clone Temtem. It is simply less bug-ridden than on the Switch.

Anyone who has grown as fond of their Switch as I have should definitely check out the following tips that have helped me a lot. Especially the tip on how you can unlock multiple save slots in certain games was worth its weight in gold:

11 tips and settings for the Nintendo Switch that you should definitely know

This is an AI-powered translation. Some inaccuracies might exist.

WoW: The Headless Horseman at the Hallow’s End – This is how you start the fight, this is the loot

Cortyn Cortyn Reading time 3 minutes

The Hallow’s End 2022 has started in World of Warcraft. The hunt for the Headless Horseman has begun – we will tell you how to sign up for the fight and find a group and what loot the Horseman drops.

Once again, the spooky season has arrived in World of Warcraft and with it the event “Hallow’s End”. In addition to plenty of candy, masks for dressing up, and one or two quests, there is also a special fight against a new boss, the Headless Horseman. This one terrorizes the towns of the starting areas and deserves a good thrashing.

We will reveal how to reach this special boss and why you really need a lot of loot luck.

How do you reach the Headless Horseman? To get to the Headless Horseman, simply use the “Dungeon Finder” tool. There you can select “The Headless Horseman” from the drop-down menu. If you sign up as a DPS character, the wait time may take a few minutes; as a tank or healer, you will receive invitations almost immediately.

If your class can tank, it’s worth signing up as a tank here, as the fight is not particularly difficult and can easily be mastered by inexperienced tanks.

WoW Headless Horseman Dungeon Notification
You can conveniently reach the boss “Headless Horseman” via the Dungeon Finder.

By the way: At level 60, the fight is quite a joke and can be easily completed even if one or two players don’t participate. The fight shouldn’t last more than 60 seconds, allowing you to quickly join the fight with all characters.

Once inside the dungeon, you only need to walk a few meters until you see a large pumpkin on the left side. Click on it and select the dialogue option so your character summons the Horseman.

You need to defeat the Horseman a total of three times. Each time he drops his head, which you must attack before the Horseman reassembles. After attacking the head for the 3rd time, the boss dies and drops his loot for you.

WoW Headless Horseman Dungeon Summoning
This pumpkin is hard to miss. It summons the Headless Horseman.

Loot and Rewards from the Headless Horseman at Hallow’s End

What does the Headless Horseman drop? The Headless Horseman can have quite a bit of loot, but the most coveted item is likely “The Reins of the Horseman,” with which you obtain the Headless Horseman’s mount. It can be contained in the “Pumpkin Full of Loot,” which you can receive once per day and character.

The Horse of the Horseman is one of the most popular mounts in the game.

But beware! To have a chance at the mount, you must be at least at the “current content” character level. This means that your character must be at least level 50 to receive the correct reward box with a chance at the mount. If your character is lower, it can receive all other rewards but not the coveted Horseman’s horse.

More about WoW here:

Additionally, the Horseman has a few more rewards:

  • 4 different rings
  • The one-handed sword “The Dark Cutter of the Horseman,” which summons pumpkin soldiers
  • The plate helmet “The Scary Hood of the Horseman,” with which you can laugh like the Headless Horseman
  • The temporary mount “Magic Broom”
  • The battle pet “Spooky Pumpkin”
  • The cosmetic item “Spooky Helmet,” with which you wear a pumpkin helmet

Moreover, the reward box always contains some candies and occasionally masks that you need for further achievements, such as “Get Out of There”.

Have you already snagged the Headless Horseman’s horse? Or have you been desperately searching for it for years?

This is an AI-powered translation. Some inaccuracies might exist.

The new gunsmith of CoD Modern Warfare 2 is somewhat Pay2Win, but significantly reduces the level grind

Maik Schneider Maik Schneider Reading time 5 minutes

Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 2 has an overhauled ” gunsmith 2.0″ with interesting changes, while also orienting itself to the system of CoD MW 2019. MeinMMO presents you the new gunsmith and explains why there is also a pinch of Pay2Win involved.

The gunsmith of Call of Duty allows you to customize your weapons with unlocked attachments to suit your playstyle. The system is very popular, but it also separates casual players from hardcore grinders.

If you play a few hours every day, you unlock everything quickly. If you only dip in occasionally, you find yourself at a disadvantage. This changes a bit with Modern Warfare 2.

The new “gunsmith 2.0” supports attachments that can be attached to multiple weapons without further leveling. In addition, new “Vault Blueprints” can be purchased, making leveling a weapon almost completely unnecessary. We will explain the new gunsmith in detail.

The English video on the gunsmith 2.0 is embedded for you here:

Start video
CoD Modern Warfare 2: Gunsmith Trailer

CoD MW2: Gunsmith 2.0 – “Families” share attachments

How does the new gunsmith work? The weapons no longer have their own weapon levels, everything now works through the so-called “receivers”. They form a weapon platform consisting of several receivers and can share their attachments with each other.

Many new weapons are also unlocked through the receivers – there is a kind of level tree that you can work through.

In total, there are 9 attachment slots and you can activate 5 attachments simultaneously. Thus, Modern Warfare 2 takes back the attachment limit from CoD MW 2019. In CoD Vanguard, there were still 10 usable attachments for each weapon.

However, the receiver is not one of the 5 possible attachments – it has its own slot.

Some attachments from the first receiver can be directly attached to the new weapons you’ve unlocked within the receiver family. You must unlock the attachment slots for a new receiver and then directly use the attachments of the weapon platform.

This way, you will have a decent amount of attachments ready for customization as soon as you unlock the weapon / the weapon receiver. There will also be attachments that you can use directly for all weapons in the game. Unlock once and use for the entire arsenal.

cod modern warfare 2 gunsmith loadout screen
cod modern warfare 2 gunsmith weapons screen
cod modern warfare 2 gunsmith attachment screen

In the example video, you unlock the M16 receiver through the M4 receiver. The M16 can then use the attachments you have unlocked through the M4 receiver.

Within the receiver families, there are strong customization options. The assault rifles M4 and M16 share receivers with submachine guns, enabling interesting attachment combinations.

New receivers and receiver families will continue to be unlocked through your account level. However, instead of previously unlocking all release weapons through your account, you get a receiver through which several weapons can be unlocked.

However, not all weapons have a platform. Some come as standalone weapons with their own, individual attachments.

If you want to know when, how and where CoD MW2 starts, here are all the infos:

More on the topic
CoD Modern Warfare 2 actually has 3 release dates – When will the campaign, multiplayer & Warzone 2.0 come out?
von Maik Schneider

Summary CoD Gunsmith 2.0:

  • There are no more weapon levels, only receiver levels
  • You unlock receivers through your account level
  • Every weapon has a receiver
  • Many receivers are part of a weapon family
  • The families share many attachments
  • New weapons within a family can be unlocked through the receiver level
  • Some attachments are usable for almost all weapons in the game
  • Some weapons have no platform

With the system, you have to grind fewer weapons overall. Instead of leveling 70 levels just with the M4 for all attachments, you level weapon families simultaneously and end up with, for example, five finished weapons instead of just one.

A disadvantage is that you have to play weapons that you might not be interested in. Because to unlock all attachments of a weapon family, you also have to play through all receivers. To get all the attachments for the M4, points with a submachine gun receiver are also necessary.

CoD MW2: Vault weapons are a logical step but slightly Pay2Win

What is the deal with the Vault weapons? Another major innovation are “Vault Blueprints”. These are weapon skins that immediately push cosmetics for all attachments into your inventory.

The FJX Cinder Weapon Vault is part of the €100 “Vault Edition” of CoD MW2 and is the first skin package of its kind (€110 for consoles). The package will already be available in the beta.

cod modern warfare 2 weapon vault first skins

A look at the preview image reveals that the receivers of a weapon family are also part of the vault packages. If you own a vault package, you have all attachments for five weapons directly and don’t really need to level anymore.

The advantages: In the past, many weapons blueprints were partially useless because they only looked good if you also had the appropriate attachments in the right appearance on the weapon.

However, when you wanted to use the strongest weapon attachments, you could rarely use your complete favorite skin. If there are now packages where every attachment fits the set, the problem disappears.

Additionally, it caters to players who have little time to game. You quickly buy a package with all attachments and might directly have an assault rifle and a submachine gun with all attachments.

More on the topic
CoD Modern Warfare 2: System Requirements – Can Your PC Handle It?
von Patrick Freese

The disadvantages: There is a hint of Pay2Win through the gunsmith. Because the blueprints used to contain only very specific attachments, which were rarely “meta”, you can now instantly buy a complete weapon.

The Battle Pass discussion around Overwatch 2 shows how critically some players see such “temporal” advantages. While you can’t buy damage advantages or similar things, you can start with a clear advantage if, for example, the new weapon of a season is too strong.

While others are still leveling their receivers, you are already hunting at the highest level with the new best weapon.

Let us know your opinion on the new “Super Skin” packages:

On October 28th, the shooter will be released, and a week earlier the campaign will already go online. On MeinMMO, we will closely monitor developments around Modern Warfare 2, provide weapon service, and tell you stories from the community.

If you want to learn more about MW2, check out our large special on the shooter: All info about Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 2 – Release, Beta, Content, and Leaks

Also participate in the survey in the article and leave a comment with your opinion on the topic.

This is an AI-powered translation. Some inaccuracies might exist.
Source(s):
  1. Call of Duty