In early 2022, the new expansion End of Dragons for Guild Wars 2 will be released. There are still a few months to go, and in a new roadmap, you can see what will happen in the rest of 2021 and early 2022.
These are the highlights of the roadmap: For the last months of the year, Guild Wars 2 still has some interesting updates in store:
Beta events for the new elite specializations
The beta for the update to DirectX 11
The first beta for the alliances in WvW
Events for returnees and classic festivals like Halloween or Wintersday
You can view the complete roadmap here:
What is still to come before the release of End of Dragons.
What are the beta events about? In the coming months, there will be various beta events where players can test new features.
For the beta events for DirectX 11 and the alliances in WvW, general changes to the game will be tested that are supposed to be released aside from the new expansion:
The update to DirectX 11 is meant to improve performance and get more out of the engine
Events for returnees and festivals are meant to keep players engaged
What is included in the events? From August until the end of November, there will be a special event that is primarily aimed at newcomers and returnees. During this time, episodes of the Living World will be highlighted for a week.
In addition, they will be available for free again, so you won’t need to pay extra gems to unlock them. There will also be new achievements that allow you to unlock a first precursor for the upcoming legendary weapons in End of Dragons. These achievements will remain permanent, so you don’t have to log in specifically during that week if you already have the episodes.
Additionally, this year will still see the annual events Festival of Winds, Halloween, and Wintersday. Each event brings special achievements and activities that players can enjoy. However, there are only slight changes compared to previous years.
Moreover, there are various events that offer bonuses for specific game content such as PvP or WvW:
WvW bonus event: September 21 to October 1
WvW bonus event: October 1 to October 8
PvP league season 29: October 12 to October 19
WvW bonus event: November 5 to November 12
WvW bonus event: December 10 to December 17
What do you think about the updates that will be released before the launch of End of Dragons? Will you try the annual events and the various betas or pause the game until the new expansion is released?
Destiny 2 starts today Season 15 – “Season of the Lost”. A roadmap has not yet been shown, but the trailer and some details have already been confirmed by developer Bungie. MeinMMO shows you details.
What’s going on in Destiny 2? The space action adventure Destiny 2 is entering its next round and starts today Season 15 – Season of the Lost. Along with the next major expansion “The Witch Queen”, the developers at Bungie revealed the trailer and parts of the content for the new season. More about the new expansion can be found in our live ticker with all the info in overview.
Bungie explained in the showcase stream that Season 15 serves as the prologue for the major expansion “The Witch Queen”. Although there is currently no roadmap, the developers already revealed some things you can expect with the new season during the stream and through the trailer:
What’s available at launch
Seasonal story starts in the Dreaming City – in Season 15, you prepare for the arrival of the Witch King
Activity for 6 players: Astral Alignment – Offers automatic player matchmaking for PvE battles for new weapons and gear
Weekly activity: Shattered Realm – Continues the story, the scenario reminds of the “Broken Throne.”
A rocket launcher as a ritual weapon for the season
New artifact for the season
New season pass with 100 levels and one free and one premium track
Increase of the light level to 1,330
Exotic quest “Agers Scepter”
Season pass weapon “Lorentz Driver”
Crossplay between platforms is now active
What’s coming later in the season
With the start of the first Trials of Osiris on September 9, the “BattlEye” anti-cheat system will go live
In December, there will be an event for the 30th anniversary of Halo, with new content and a paid anniversary pack
The anniversary brings a free activity and weapons for everyone, but also a pack with exotics and a dungeon
If you want to get an overview of the changes yourself, check out the website for the Season of the Lost (English via bungie.net).
Here you will also find an overview of the rewards and content for players with or without a season pass:
Bungie showed in what is probably the most important stream for Destiny 2 in 2020, how the shooter MMO will continue in the near future. However, there is still no complete overview of the content for the new season.
What is your first impression of the content plan for the coming months? Are you looking forward to the time until the major expansion “The Witch Queen” or do you have concerns that Season 15 could become a drag?
This is an AI-powered translation. Some inaccuracies might exist.
In Destiny 2 today, on August 24, Season 15 kicks off. Before that, Bungie’s action MMO will receive a new update. Update 3.3.0 will be released for all platforms, including PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X /S, as well as PC and Google Stadia. Traditionally, this also comes with maintenance and server downtime. Find out all the important details about today’s maintenance process and the patch notes here.
Update 7:19 PM: Previously, before the release of the update, Bungie warned on Twitter that there might be queues at the start of the new season.
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That’s currently the case. So it might very well be that after downloading (and copying) the update, you will have to wait quite a while before you can get started. By the way, the servers are currently running at least stably.
What’s happening today in Destiny 2? Today is an important day for Destiny 2.
On one hand, Season 15 – the Season of the Lost starts today. Guardians are still waiting for the official reveal of the new season, which has not yet happened. On the other hand, in a live stream, the next major expansion for Destiny 2 – “The Witch Queen” will be revealed today. The presentation is expected to begin at 6:00 PM German time, with the pre-show starting an hour earlier, at 5:00 PM.
It is currently expected that the new Season 15 will also be revealed during the stream – possibly during the pre-show (or at least in that time frame). By the way, we will provide a live ticker for the stream here on MeinMMO:
As always, you will find all the information around the new season shortly after it becomes known on our page.
However, to ensure that you can dive into the fresh content today (hopefully) on time at 7:00 PM, there is still maintenance including update and server downtime.
The update is now live and is 4,573 MB large on PS5. Here are the most important details about today’s process.
Today there is maintenance again – After that, Season 15 will start
Maintenance on August 24 – Schedule and Server Downtime
These times are important today:
Maintenance starts at 5:00 PM German time
At 5:45 PM, the Destiny 2 servers will go offline, all players will be removed from their respective activities, and you won’t be able to log in
At 7:00 PM, the servers should come back online and update 3.3.0 will then be available
Once you have downloaded (and copied) the update, you can log back into Destiny 2 and dive straight into the new content
If everything goes according to plan, maintenance should end around 9:00 PM
However, keep in mind: Until the end of maintenance at 9:00 PM, there may be login issues and queues.
If you cannot download the update right at 7:00 PM – don’t panic. This is completely normal for Bungie, updates often arrive a few minutes later. Just have a little patience.
The story of Season 15 is likely to be really exciting with Mara Sov and Osiris – But some changes also sound intriguing
What changes in Destiny 2 with Update 3.3.0 on August 24?
This is what we know so far: Although Season 15 has not yet been officially presented, Bungie has already provided generous insights into the many changes that will await players from 7:00 PM today. Here are the most important things:
Keep in mind that this is not a complete listing of all upcoming changes. That will happen in the form of the official patch notes.
Patch Notes for Update 3.3.0 in Destiny 2
This is what the patch notes say: Currently, patch notes for the new update are not available in English. They are expected to be released later this evening. Until then, we will embed the original English changelog for you here:
How about you? Are you looking forward to the new season and will you be there right at the start? Or has Destiny 2 no longer captured your interest – new season or not? Let us know in the comments.
The MMORPG Neverwinter launched its latest expansion Jewel of the North on August 24 for Xbox and PlayStation. It introduces a new class, the Bard, who does exactly what you expect from a Bard: entertain teammates. In the “free performance mode,” you can actually play whatever you like as a Bard, and surrounding players may (or must) experience it.
What is Jewel of the North? The free expansion for the MMORPG Neverwinter was already released in July for PC. Now you can finally play your favorite songs on PlayStation 4 and Xbox One, as the expansion has also been available on consoles since August 24.
Jewel of the North brought the Bard class into the game along with the associated performance modes, which can only be activated as a Bard.
What can the Bard do? The Bard in Neverwinter is inspired by the archetype from the 5th Edition of Dungeons & Dragons. As a Bard, you are a daring hero who can combine melee with magic. You play music to strengthen and heal allies or to confuse your opponents with your songs.
Exclusively as a Bard, you also have access to the new performance mode, in which you can play various songs. They not only sound good, but can also damage your opponents. However, the real highlight of the Bard in Neverwinter is the free performance mode.
The Bard in action
Jewel of the North turns you into a medieval rockstar
What is the free performance mode? In this mode, you can unleash your inner musician because with the instrument of your choice, you can play whatever you want in free performance. You not only have access to the eight basic notes but can also choose accidentals and octaves, that is, different “versions” of the basic notes, which vary in height and depth, among other characteristics.
This gives you complete freedom to play well-known songs or, of course, create entirely new compositions and show them to other players at any time when you are not fighting. You can literally be a medieval rockstar and present your pieces to an enthusiastic audience.
The MMORPG Guild Wars 2 has a similar concept when it comes to its instruments. Music guilds can regularly gather hundreds of players for their performances. The free performance mode in Neverwinter feels even more refined and makes us excited about what will be possible with it.
Salim Grant, Senior Designer of Neverwinter and heavily involved in the free performance mode, says:
With the Bard’s free performance mode, we want to enable a lot of creativity and musical enjoyment for players; just like playing Ocarina in Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time. […] The performance mode was specifically designed for players who want to unleash their inner Bard and entertain their allied adventurers. With the Bard, we primarily wanted to allow as much customization as possible for Dungeons & Dragons players, so they can become the Bard they’ve always wanted to be.
The free performance mode in Neverwinter
How does the mode work? As long as you are not in combat as a Bard, you can activate the mode at any time. On PC, you can do this with the F12 key; on consoles, it works with the L1 trigger and R3. Once in the mode, you can now freely play ahead. You change octaves on PC with the arrow keys and on consoles with the trigger keys.
The community gets musical
How are players reacting? The Bard, especially the free performance mode, is gratefully received by fans. Players share their creations on reddit, essentially distributing sheet music so that all Bards can play their favorite songs (via reddit.com).
Among the players’ songs are classics like “Happy Birthday” as well as titles from “Pirates of the Caribbean” or “Game of Thrones.” But it wouldn’t be the Internet if it ended there. The famous song “Never gonna give you up” by Rick Astley (the “Rick Roll Song”) has also made its musical way into Neverwinter, just like the Twitch insider “Darude Sandstorm.”
In this video, one of the PC Bards plays the “Coffee Dance” by Vicetone & Tony Igy:
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The community celebrates its rockstars: Among the videos of practicing Bards, the player base enjoys the artists.
SundanceWolf writes (via YouTube): “I love this stuff! Really good work.”
Lars Harsch writes (via YouTube): “Awesome! Please, more music!”
User Ivan is also thrilled (via YouTube): “Oh man, don’t tell me you play all that with numbers and arrow keys? Epic!”
What do you think of the feature? Have you already tried the mode on PC or are you now diving onto the consoles to pick up the instruments? If you haven’t played Neverwinter yet, are you now interested? Feel free to leave us a comment.
Dying Light 2 has provided an insight into its combat system with a new gameplay trailer. One mechanic is particularly in focus and makes the combat, especially against humans, more dynamic. Previously, there was a small teaser for the beautiful visuals of the survival game using the new ray tracing technology (RTX).
What was shown? During the Xbox stream at gamescom 2021, the development team of Dying Light 2 showcased a gameplay video of the combat system and the gameplay of the game. It shows how the protagonist parkours through the city, jumping from wall to wall or swinging into windows using ropes.
In the combat itself, melee weapons are mainly seen: improvised brass knuckles made from bicycle chains, axes, and machetes. Your character seems to have a certain level of superpowers as you can jump higher and strike so hard that enemies nearby simply fall over.
The “Vault” mechanic is especially emphasized in the video. You can unbalance opponents with parries and then use them to push off from them and throw them to the ground or attack other enemies in the group. This is said to be particularly useful in combat against humans, who appear more frequently in Dying Light 2.
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This is what Dying Light 2 looks like: The new teaser shows a tour through the world of Dying Light 2. You can see the world, various NPC positions, abandoned cities, and also some of the zombies you will encounter.
The special thing about ray tracing is the lighting and the shadows. Ray tracing is roughly responsible for calculating light in the game and enhances it. This means: with RTX you have prettier reflections and more realistic shadows, which particularly improves the visual detail.
The devs explain that the shadows behave “identically to reality” – further away they are slightly blurred, closer to the ground they are razor sharp. We have embedded the video here for you:
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The short RTX teaser was already shown before the appearance at gamescom. The video repeatedly shows comparisons of the game with ray tracing on and without the new technology. However, there is no gameplay with action such as close combat or the only firearm. This came later.
When will Dying Light 2 be released? After a long silence, the developers spoke up again in early 2021 and announced in May that Dying Light 2 will be released on December 7. Dying Light 2 will be available for PC, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X|S.
The second part takes place 15 years after the events of Dying Light and impresses with action, parkour elements, and, as seen above, cinematic graphics. Additionally, you can also play Dying Light 2 in co-op.
The Xbox event of gamescom 2021 starts on August 24. Find out here where you can watch and which multiplayer games might be featured in the presentation.
About this event: As part of gamescom 2021, Microsoft announced an event where new information about upcoming Xbox games will be presented. Before things officially kick off with Opening Night Live on August 25, the Xbox stream will give you a sneak peek.
Important information at a glance:
When does the event start: The stream begins on August 24 at 19:00 CEST.
Where will it be streamed? You can watch the stream on Twitch, YouTube, and Facebook
How long will the stream last? The duration is 90 minutes, so the stream will end at 20:30 CEST.
Microsoft will also offer sign language in the stream for viewers with hearing impairments.
Finally a release date for Halo Infinite?
Multiplayer games: For many multiplayer fans, the upcoming shooter Halo Infinite is of great interest. A few weeks ago, the developer 343 Industries conducted a tech preview, and a beta test is also planned before the release.
However, Halo Infinite still does not have a fixed release date. The game is supposed to be released in 2021, and the release window is getting tight. In addition, Halo Infinite has already been delayed to give developers more time for improvements and polish. Fans hope that the release will be officially announced soon, and the gamescom stream is a good opportunity for that. Therefore, hope for a release date is not unfounded.
Also, Forza Horizon 5, which has already impressed at the E3 with its stunning graphics, will be part of the Xbox event. Racing game fans can look forward to new information.
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Dying Light 2, the survival horror game with coop elements, has also announced its presence at the Xbox event this evening. In a tweet from August 24, the official Twitter account of the game announced that there will be a little surprise in the Xbox stream.
This will not happen: In a tweet, Aaron Greenberg also announced that there will be no new reveals. So you shouldn’t hope that Microsoft will announce completely new games for their platforms. He further tempered fans’ expectations, stating that they should not expect massive surprises.
What are your expectations for the Xbox stream this evening? Let us know in the comments.
In a live stream, the next major expansion – “The Witch Queen” – will be presented today. MeinMMO is covering this Destiny 2 reveal for you here in a live ticker.
What is Witch Queen all about? The Witch Queen will be the next and – if we disregard the DLCs Curse of Osiris and Warmind – the 4th major expansion for Destiny 2. Following Beyond Light from 2020, this addon also embodies the now second of 3 interconnected annual expansions, with which Bungie plans to continue Destiny 2 at least until 2022.
Originally, Witch Queen was supposed to be released in autumn 2021, but the effects of the global Corona pandemic forced Bungie to delay this expansion to “early 2022”. A more specific release date is still pending – just like official details aside from the name and the titular main antagonist Savathûn, the Witch Queen herself. However, that should finally change today.
All Important Info About the Witch Queen Reveal
What is planned for today? This evening, Bungie wants to provide some concrete information about the Witch Queen expansion during a two-hour live stream.
Seven years of Destiny have brought us to this point – on the threshold of an adventure like we have never experienced before. Be there to learn what lies ahead. Will you confront the truth?
With these words Bungie gets the Guardians excited for today’s event and has already provided a brief teaser that you can check out here:
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The stream consists of a pre-show and a main event.
Today at 7:00 PM, after a new update, Season 15 – the Season of the Lost will also begin. However, the new season has not yet been officially presented. It is expected that Bungie will also do this as part of the live stream – possibly in the pre-show (or at least during this time window).
When does the pre-show start? The pre-show starts at 5:00 PM German time.
When does the showcase start? The main event then starts an hour later at 6:00 PM German time.
How can you follow the whole thing? You can watch the reveal stream on the following official channels of Bungie or Destiny 2:
The Destiny 2 Showcase and Pre-Show in the Live Ticker
Traditionally, we accompany such major Destiny reveals here at MeinMMO with a ticker – also today. From 4:45 PM onward, we will provide you live with the latest info and the most important details from the stream. Feel free to join us and discuss with us and other readers of MeinMMO in the comment section.
Update, 7:00 PM: If you want to watch the whole show again – here it is in full length with English subtitles:
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We say goodbye today at this point. Have fun with the new content and good loot, Guardians. See you starside!
Update, 6:45 PM: If you want to pre-order Witch Queen – it’s already possible in the PS Store. In the MS Store and on Steam, it apparently hasn’t been unlocked yet at this time.
Update, 6:28 PM: That’s it, the stream is now over.
Update, 6:22 PM: There will be a new matchmaking activity for 6 players in December for Bungie’s 30th anniversary (free for all). Additionally, a new paid Anniversary Pack (via Bungie) will be available for purchase. It contains the following:
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And now comes a big surprise: The new Exotic from the pack is a real legend – Gjallarhorn is back! And it appeared that the entrance to the new dungeon would be in the old loot cave in the Cosmodrome.
Additionally, other Bungie games like Halo will be celebrated in Destiny 2.
Update, 6:18 PM: Cross-play goes live today. The Light subclasses will be updated every season – starting with Void.
Aspects, fragments, and more.
Beginning with Void, Light subclasses will be updated every Season in Destiny 2 Year 5. pic.twitter.com/umrf1rBsN8
Update, 6:17 PM: Numerous changes are coming for Trials of Osiris. Matchmaking (Solo Queue), loot will no longer only be available at the end (not just after X matches). What many will be pleased to hear: a new anti-cheat system is also coming:
Update, 6:13 PM: Season 15 will be the prologue for Witch Queen. The saga surrounding Light and Darkness will apparently NOT conclude as was previously planned with the Lightfall expansion, but with The Final Shape. Destiny 2 will continue even further. And then even more…
The Light and Darkness saga will come to a dramatic conclusion in Destiny 2: The Final Shape.
Update, 6:10 PM: The campaign for Witch Queen will have a harder difficulty – similar to Nightfall. Enemies will be especially tough there.
Update, 6:08 PM: With Witch Queen, a cool new feature will come: weapon crafting. Players will be able to craft numerous weapons themselves – including mods, shaders, and perks. Witch Queen is just the beginning.
Discover the new weapon crafting system to forge new weapons and level them up with customizable perks, stats, and more. pic.twitter.com/xZQwn9cVle
Update, 6:05 PM: There is a first look at the new game world. Guardians will apparently receive new melee weapons, and the Warlock was seen with a type of spear.
Master the Glaive, a new weapon archetype.
Perform powerful melee combos, fire projectiles, and deploy a powerful energy shield. pic.twitter.com/4T6GepoDHY
Update, 6:04 PM: One of the new locations is Savathûn’s Throne World.
Savathûn’s Throne World
Savathûn leads a kind of army of Hive Guardians who also use the Light of the Traveler and have ghosts. There was apparently also a kind of super seen, used by the Hive Guardians’ enemies. They can apparently be completely killed if you destroy their ghosts.
Update, 6:02 PM: The showcase has finally started – there is a trailer for Witch Queen! Release Date is February 22, 2022.
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Update, 5:57 PM: Alright, 3 more minutes. It’s about to start (hopefully properly).
Update, 5:50 PM: If you just joined – from the official side, you have missed nothing; there has been no significant info yet. In 10 minutes, however, the main event will start. It should finally provide concrete details then.
Update, 5:40 PM: Attention, spoiler alert. Here are a few first (rough) official details about Witch Queen – also from the Australian PSN Store:
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Update, 5:28 PM: Currently, there are 2 major leaks circulating about Witch Queen, which include a lot of thick spoilers regarding the next major expansion and the general direction and future of Destiny 2. We, like many content creators, have decided not to share this information here.
However, the first official images have been leaked in the Australian PSN Store, which will likely be going live with us soon. You can check them out here. Please note – the prices are listed in Australian dollars and not in USD:
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Update, 5:17 PM: Regarding the new season: Community Manager of Bungie, dmg04, just announced on Twitter that we should expect queue times this evening at the start of the new season. However, the team will do everything possible to ensure the launch goes as smoothly as possible.
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Currently, there’s nothing really new in the stream – a recap of the last Destiny years with fan reactions, videos, artworks and tweets is running.
Update, 5:02 PM: Some community artworks of Destiny are being shown – accompanied by nostalgic Destiny music. There are some reactions to read, some proudly display their Destiny collections.
Update, 5:00 PM: It’s starting. In the pre-show, Bungie wants to look back at the past Destiny years. Whether something will actually come regarding the new season is questionable.
Start, 4:45 PM: Good morning, everyone. 15 more minutes, then the pre-show will start.
Are you excited for the new season and especially the next major expansion? Or has the Destiny train already left for you – no matter what Destiny 2 still has to offer? Could a successful addon possibly bring you back to pull out your Guardian gear?
Call of Duty: Vanguard was introduced a few days ago, but even when evaluating the trailer, it becomes clear: Not everyone is excited about the new World War CoD, and this is reflected in your opinions.
What is it about? It has been 6 days since the announcement of Call of Duty: Vanguard, and we finally know the setting, which is set in World War II. More information is also known, including the return of the gunsmith and a release with a total of 20 multiplayer maps.
We wanted to know what you, the MeinMMO community, think about Call of Duty: Vanguard and its premise, and whether you will buy the shooter. Here are your answers:
How did you vote? The survey on the purchase willingness of Call of Duty: Vanguard ended on August 24. A total of 961 readers from the community voted, and each person was allowed to cast only one vote. The result is as follows:
Will you buy Call of Duty: Vanguard?
Yes, I’m looking forward to it: 24.32 %
Probably yes: 15.49 %
I don’t know yet: 16.21
Probably not: 19.64 %
No, definitely not: 24.32 %
The results show that the CoD community is divided on what they think of the latest installment of the shooter series. The final rating shows a slight tendency towards “not buying”.
In total, 44 % have expressed a rather negative opinion about buying Vanguard, while 40 % are positive. 16 % of you are not quite sure if the new Call of Duty is worth purchasing—at least at release. The comments you have typed about Call of Duty: Vanguard in the past weeks provide additional insights into your decision.
More than half not convinced – What fails for you in CoD: Vanguard?
Where does the rejection come from? Not only does the MeinMMO community believe that Call of Duty: Vanguard is not a must-buy. The reaction of the YouTube community to the first trailer also shows rejection. The reputation of Call of Duty has taken a nosedive in recent years. Especially Modern Warfare 2019 was able to win many old and new fans — now the facade is crumbling.
On YouTube, the Vanguard trailer has around 15.34 % negative ratings and is therefore even rated worse than the WW2 trailer (10.4 % negative ratings). For Modern Warfare 2019, there are only 3.32 % thumbs down. For many of you, it should be clear where the greater rejection of this year’s Call of Duty comes from.
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Looking at the comments below the poll, one thing becomes very clear: The setting isn’t blowing you away. And that, despite the fact that the last CoD set in World War II was released in 2017. After that, excursions into the Cold War and modern times followed. You clearly prefer these settings.
I also find the setting poorly chosen and rather uninteresting for me. I would rather buy it for leveling weapons for Warzone and the campaign.
Dady DE
For undecided minds, the setting is also at least a small thorn in the side:
Well, I’m not looking forward to the WW2 setting. Back in CoD: WW2 I simply missed the heavy skins, but otherwise it was really good. We haven’t even seen the multiplayer trailer yet. I think at the latest by then, I’ll know whether I want to buy it or not.
Desten96
Players who have decided to buy Call of Duty: Vanguard still view the setting critically:
I’ve been playing CoD since part 1, so I will also play Vanguard. Even though the setting comes across more intensely in 2021 than before, the hunt for Nazi Zombies in eternal ice, moon, etc. will surely be cool, I would have preferred a different location. Steampunk, SciFi, war against IS featured by Wiki Leaks, WW3 2035
Threepwood
Gameplay is what matters most
Others among you do not mind the setting at all or believe that the gameplay of Call of Duty is more important than the setting. Some are even particularly looking forward to the World War scenario, just like our author Maik Schneider. A reason for many of you to buy CoD: Vanguard is the weapon building system reminiscent of Modern Warfare, the movement, and the gunplay:
Finally a WW2 CoD with decent graphics and probably good gameplay since it is based on Modern Warfare 2019. How long did we have to wait for this? I hope it will be as good as advertised.
Volkeracho
For me, gameplay is more important than the setting. And since Vanguard is again aligned with MW gameplay, I’m looking forward to the release.
Huhu_2345
You’re out of line and wish for Infinite Warfare 2
Overall, Call of Duty: Infinite Warfare is considered one of the worst installments in the series (via PlayCentral.de). It has too much sci-fi, too fast movement, and too much shine. The criticism back then was clear, and even the reveal trailer (via YouTube.com) flew far below Activision’s expectations with almost 4 million thumbs down.
Nevertheless, some of you wish for more experimentation from the developers; just like with Infinite Warfare. But what do you have to say in your defense?
In my opinion, World War shooters are simply worn out. I’m always for the developers trying something new, see Infinite Warfare. It had so many good approaches but was just hated to death because of the setting.
Kartoffel Salat
Definitely not. The WW2 scenario is just so worn out; I would actually prefer an Infinite Warfare 2 now since when you play it today, it’s not as bad as it seemed back then. Damn, the way the story is done in Infinite Warfare, I actually find really good. It just came out at the wrong time.
How impressive the advantages of team play in Dead by Daylight are, is shown by a team that perfectly counters the killer – and has a lot of fun doing it.
In Dead by Daylight, team play is essential for the survivors to live up to their name and survive. Most players probably know that surviving together with communication via voice chat is simply better than going solo – even if that adds to the thrill for some players.
But the amazing feats possible only through communication were showcased by a team on the Dead by Daylight subreddit, astonishing the community.
What is there to see? The match is already in the last phase – all generators have been repaired and only the exit gates need to be opened. The Trapper, however, has been prepared and has set both exit gates with bear traps. Whoever wants to open the gate must disarm the trap first. However, this triggers a loud warning signal that would immediately alert the killer and reveal the survivors’ position.
However, the survivors have learned a nasty (or clever) trick and open the gate nonetheless, without alerting the killer. This was only possible with perfect team play.
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How does it work? Disarming a bear trap takes a few seconds. Only once this is fully completed does it give off a loud alarm signal for the killer. What many players might not know: Even while the bear trap is in the “disarming” state, another survivor can step on it.
The team exploits this by repeatedly starting the disarming process of the bear trap and then canceling it before it finishes. In that brief moment, a second survivor steps on the trap and opens the gate – a little bit each time.
Since disarming a trap only takes a few seconds, there is only a very small window of time in which the other person can safely step on the trap.
More news about Dead by Daylight on MeinMMO can be found here:
Is it intended? It’s rather questionable whether a bear trap should be considered disarmed for other survivors even though it hasn’t actually been disarmed yet. However, it is also a fact that this behavior of the traps has existed in the game for years and allowed survivors to help each other through traps without triggering them. That this mechanic can also be used to fully open a gate has not been shown before.
No matter how one feels about it – the mere fact that this worked without triggering the trap is quite exciting and allows for a deserved escape for the survivors.
Have you also accomplished such impressive cooperative feats in Dead by Daylight?
This is an AI-powered translation. Some inaccuracies might exist.
The controversial former Twitch streamer Dr Disrespect was surprisingly banned in 2020, and the reasons remain unclear. However, it seems that the streamer now knows about the circumstances and does not want to accept this. In a recent stream, he stated that he is suing Twitch hard and that a lot of money is at stake.
What did the Doc say? In a stream on YouTube, the rowdy streamer and character Dr Disrespect recently shared some interesting new facts about his permanent ban on Twitch in 2020. The reasons are still officially unknown, but in the stream, the Doc indicated that he is indeed aware of the reasons, and has been for months.
This is also the reason why they are now suing Twitch “damn hard”. What exactly the lawsuit entails and how far the proceedings have come, or whether it is just an announcement of legal action, the Doc has not yet stated.
Who is this Dr Disrespect anyway? The rowdy macho with the porn mustache, mirrored sunglasses, and mullet is actually named Guy Beahm and used to be a community manager and map designer for Call of Duty. In his role as the “Doc”, he plays a toxic macho who acts like a bully and serves as a parody of gamer clichés. Due to his controversial nature he has frequently been in trouble.
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Doc’s Twitch ban has likely caused a lot of damage
Why does he want to sue Twitch? The exact reasons for the lawsuit, as well as the reasons for the Twitch ban, the Doc does not want to reveal yet. However, he hints that it involves claims for damages.
Dr Disrespect was incredibly successful on Twitch. He had secured the coveted Twitch partner status for several years and was once considered the “face of Twitch”. He had a total of 4.45 million followers and on average over 21,000 people watched him.
Thus, a significant amount of money from subscriptions and donations had accumulated, which of course first disappeared when he was suddenly banned from the platform. Meanwhile, the Doc himself stated that his earnings have been reduced to a quarter.
Although the Doc quickly found a new home on YouTube, he no longer has an exclusive contract there. Therefore, the ban has likely caused him significant financial damage, and his reputation in the business may have suffered. After all, it remains officially unclear to this day what exactly happened back then.
What happened back then? In June 2020, Dr Disrespect was permanently banned from Twitch – surprisingly for outsiders. Initially, it was thought to be a PR stunt, and even the Doc’s own statements were not particularly helpful.
Later, a rather plausible rumor emerged that basically stated that the Doc had tried to fool Twitch when the Twitch stars Ninja and shroud switched to the new streaming service Mixer, by inventing an enticing offer from Mixer.
However, since Mixer went under shortly thereafter, Twitch supposedly caught wind of the deceitful attempt quite quickly, and this attempt at deception is rumored to be the reason why they no longer wanted to work with the Doc. The whole story surrounding the rumor about the Doc’s ban can be read here.
If the Doc’s lawsuit against Twitch is really heard, we might finally learn what really happened back then.
This is an AI-powered translation. Some inaccuracies might exist.
In Pokémon GO, the Spotlight Hour with Raffel takes place today, August 24, 2021. We from MeinMMO have looked into whether this event is worth it and what bonus you can expect.
What is a Spotlight Hour? For trainers in Pokémon GO, a short event called Spotlight Hour takes place every Tuesday. During this time, one Pokémon is in the spotlight and spawns more frequently in the wild. Additionally, you can expect a weekly changing bonus.
Today you can look forward to the Pokémon Raffel during the Spotlight Hour. Furthermore, you can expect double candy for sending Pokémon.
Spotlight Hour with Raffel – Start Time and Bonus
When does it start? The Spotlight Hour starts today, August 24, 2021, at 6:00 PM local time. The event lasts exactly one hour and ends at 7:00 PM.
This is today’s bonus: As in every week, the Spotlight Hour brings you an additional bonus in addition to the Pokémon during the event. Today, you can look forward to double candy when sending Pokémon.
Of course, numerous Raffel will also appear on your map in-game. If you want to increase the spawn count even more to catch as many specimens as possible, you can also use incense and/or a lure module. These will also attract the monsters.
Are there Shiny Raffel? No, Shiny Raffel is currently not available to be caught in the game.
Is the Spotlight Hour with Raffel worth it?
The normal Pokémon Raffel has only been available in the game for a few days. It originates from the Galar region and fits into the current Sword and Shield theme as part of the 3rd Hyperbonus event. With 50 candies, you can also evolve Raffel into Schlaraffel.
Raffel (left) and Schlaraffel (right)
How strong will it be? According to the overview from PvPoke, Raffel tends to have poor stats in attack, stamina, and defense (via pvpoke.com). It is therefore quite uninteresting for raids and the PvP League. This is different for its evolution Schlaraffel.
This monster has good stamina. The attack and defense stats are only average. However, it is still very well suited for the Ultra League according to PvPoke (via pvpoke.com).
Who is it worth it for? Since Raffel is still completely new in the game, you should use the Spotlight Hour if you still need a Raffel or Schlaraffel for your Pokédex. If you want a strong Schlaraffel for the Ultra League, you should also take this opportunity. For shiny hunters, however, today’s event is rather not that interesting.
Are you participating in the Spotlight Hour with Raffel today? Or have you already managed to catch a strong specimen and prefer to skip today? Let us know your thoughts here, on MeinMMO, in the comments.
Some gaming monitors offer the option to display a crosshair. However, some players do not like this because they consider it cheating. Others, however, believe that only beginners benefit from it and in the long run, it doesn’t really matter.
Hardcore shooters like Escape from Tarkov are known to be particularly difficult. This is partly because these games omit popular aids, such as the crosshair. In reality, these aids are also not conveniently displayed in the regular view.
For some time now, there have been gaming monitors that offer the option to display a crosshair as assistance directly on the monitor. Therefore, this feature is not completely new.
For many gamers, the advantages of this feature are obvious:
You can activate a crosshair in games that normally don’t have one and gain assistance and thus an advantage over other players who don’t have this feature.
Since this is an integration in your gaming monitor, anti-cheat programs and similar will not complain about its use.
As this is a function of the monitor, help will also not be displayed during screen sharing and remains visible only to the user in front of the screen.
Furthermore, this function does not fall under third-party software, which is explicitly forbidden by many developers for their games. For example, aggressive measures are taken against it in CoD: Warzone. Here it seems the strategy against cheaters in the Warzone is finally working, but many remain skeptical about the success.
If you’re interested in more about this on MeinMMO, then check here:
When can this feature help? Many average players are not as disciplined or focused as professional players. The crosshair helps to direct the gaze to a central point that stays in memory. So, it is not an aimbot or other technical assistance.
A crosshair does not blend into the game world and focuses attention on the center where important actions occur. Especially beginners like to use such features to practice and prepare for competitive games.
Is this feature even allowed? Officially, you are allowed to use the crosshair function of your monitor. This function does not fall under so-called third-party software; it is a function of the hardware.
However, this does not mean that it is really advisable to use this function: Among other players, this function is highly controversial. Many players clearly see such aids as cheating and wish for a ban or another punishment for such individuals.
Gaming monitors like this one from ASUS can display a crosshair.
Crosshair feature is controversial – For some players, it’s cheating
These are the reactions: How controversial this actually harmless function is, is evident from a look into various gaming forums.
For example, a user writes on reddit (via reddit.com):
It is cheating in games like CS:GO, where some weapons like the AWP have no crosshair, making it easy to kill people without a sight. I do not recommend using it if you want to respect yourself.
In principle, it is considered a bit like cheating for FPS games, but it can also help you calibrate your monitor.
Many maintain the opinion that this technical gimmick provides an advantage. While not everyone can benefit from it, for some the small advantage is sufficient. As a contribution to equal opportunity or fair play, this feature is not considered (via reddit.com):
People use it [the feature]… apparently it gives them an advantage, even if it is just one in ten cases – Escape from Tarkov is a game without respawns. Sometimes that fraction of a second gives an adequate advantage over the opponent.
I repeat: I am not a fan of crosshairs in games, but I am a fan of fair play.
Especially the fact that this advantage can be hidden and is neither visible to other players nor detectable by the game makes the monitor feature so unfair. Some even go so far as to claim: Why ban third-party software when these monitors are allowed in games anyway (via forum.escapefromtarkov.com).
Are there other opinions? Yes, because other users do not understand the excitement. If you are bad at a game, this aim assist does not instantly make you a better player. A user writes (via forum.escapefromtarkov.com):
The number of people complaining about a monitor’s crosshair is hysterical!!! If you are bad at the game… it won’t make you better because they’re inaccurate… and if you’re good… you don’t need them anyway.
Especially beginners who like to use such tools would hardly be seen in competitive matches, as the skills of seasoned gamers would balance out the advantage.
In CoD Warzone is constantly ruined by cheaters, and the developers have long been accused of inaction. However, it seems that is not the case, as the latest hardware bans are finally showing results.
What is the situation in the game? Until now, the developers at Raven Software regularly consulted the Warzone community and banned the worst cheaters. However, they quickly created a new account and the cheating began all over again.
This, in turn, led to great frustration among fans, and prominent streamers like Nickmercs finally had enough and moved on to other games like Apex Legends.
What is the deal with the hardware bans? However, it seems that the developers were not as inactive as they had long been accused of, and they are working on anti-cheat measures. The latest wave of bans appears to directly issue hardware bans, affecting over 50,000 cheaters who can no longer create an account in the Warzone.
What is a hardware ban? In a regular ban, only the current account is suspended. In a hardware ban, however, certain data from the user’s hardware is read, and as long as this data is present, there is no way to create an account in the game in which the user was banned. Only replacing the relevant hardware or relatively complicated workarounds would allow for continued play, which already poses too great a hurdle for many cheaters.
Cheaters get permanently kicked from the game and even find it good
How successful are the new methods? The developers’ statement alone gives hope that the dire situation in the Warzone is finally improving. But true certainty only came from the circles of the victims, namely the cheater community, who likely cannot play anymore.
Several cheaters report in relevant channels that they have been caught. The well-known leaker and CoD expert Tom Henderson summarized a few reactions in a tweet.
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How does a hacker react? Another hacker, known on TikTok as rushman360, also confirms that he likely cannot get into the game anymore. All his accounts are banned, even those he has never played and has likely just created as a reserve.
Curiously, he even finds that good. He openly admits that he “hacked a little,” but that the current crackdown on hackers and cheaters is a good thing. Content creators can finally come back into the game.
However, the reformed ex-cheater does not explain why he participated in cheating despite this negative view.
What do the comments say? The fans’ comments on Twitter are still cautious, and many are not yet convinced. After all, hardware bans have existed for a long time, and with enough effort, they can be circumvented. However, others celebrate the salty tears of the poor hackers who can no longer cheat so easily. A selection of comments can be found here:
The Ramtim: “Good, they should be banned so hard that they stop gaming altogether!”
Dan Wheat: “They have imposed hardware bans before, but the cheat software can bypass those, so there is even less reason to stop hacking, as they can only play when using hacking software once they have a hardware ban.”
Infinite: “The game wouldn’t be in this state if they had hardware bans from the start.”
Is there more to come? The users’ concerns might dissipate if the new ban offensive is part of a larger operation against cheaters. After all, the developers have already announced further steps in this regard, and the hardware bans are possibly only part of a comprehensive anti-cheat measure.
This is an AI-powered translation. Some inaccuracies might exist.
The trainers of Pokémon GO are currently observing strange sky phenomena in the game. In addition to a night sky during the day, there are also strange rings visible. What do they mean? We at MeinMMO have looked into it and will explain it to you.
What happened? For a few days now, the sky in Pokémon GO has been darkened. It resembles a night sky, even though it is midday. Strange rings appear, which open and close like portals. Therefore, some trainers are puzzled and are asking for advice in social networks, such as our Pokémon GO Facebook group (via facebook.com).
This is what the portals in the sky mean
Anyone who regularly plays Pokémon GO will know that this is not the first time such a phenomenon has occurred in the game’s sky. On the second day of Go Fest 2021, a similar night sky was visible, also adorned with golden rings.
Golden rings in the sky
The reason for this representation in the game is the Pokémon Hoopa. The mysterious Pokémon is capable of opening portals with its rings and transporting things from one place to another. This is why it was responsible for the numerous legendary raids during Go Fest.
To first recruit Hoopa in the game, Niantic changed the sky that day and integrated Hoopa’s typical golden rings there. It was also included in the start screen in this context.
But why are there rings in the sky again? The 3rd part of the Hyperbonus in Pokémon GO, which you earned during Go Fest, is currently running. Seven cool new Pokémon from the Galar region have been introduced into the game. And once again, Hoopa is responsible for the events.
Niantic also showcased this in their trailer for the current event. Anyone who watched it surely noticed that the video of Pokémon GO also showed these rings in the sky. Due to this close connection between the ongoing event and Hoopa, Niantic has once again adjusted the sky accordingly.
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Even though Niantic has already recruited Hoopa through various means, such as the golden portals in the night sky, there has been no opportunity to catch this mysterious Pokémon so far. Some trainers have been speculating since Go Fest 2021 about when it will finally be released.
No official date has been confirmed yet, but many indications suggest that it won’t be long now. Dataminers have already found images of Hoopa in the game code. Since Niantic wants to bring back Ex-Raids, some trainers hope that they can encounter Hoopa there.
Whether and when that will happen remains to be seen. As soon as there is new information, you will find it here on MeinMMO.
What do you think of the visual changes in Pokémon GO? Does the night sky during the day bother you, or do you think it’s really cool? And when do you think there will be a release of Hoopa? Feel free to share your thoughts with us here on MeinMMO in the comments.
By the way: In September, you can expect Ottaro in the Community Day. We will show you when it takes place and what bonuses you can look forward to.
This is an AI-powered translation. Some inaccuracies might exist.
An old feature from WoW: Battle for Azeroth will soon be accessible to solo players. The island expeditions are returning.
Even though Patch 9.1.5 of World of Warcraft is not yet playable on the PTR, Blizzard is revealing piece by piece what the upcoming update will include. In addition to some new character customization options for Allied Races, another detail has now been revealed. One of the “big” features from Battle for Azeroth will also be made available to solo players.
What was said? In the European WoW forum, Community Manager Linxy spoke up. It was explained that Blizzard is working on making the island expeditions from Battle for Azeroth accessible to solo players.
The current plan is that with Patch 9.1.5, all characters can join island expeditions either alone, in pairs, or as usual in threes.
What does this bring? Even though island expeditions were a controversial feature in Battle for Azeroth as they represented a monotonous grind for artifact power, there were a number of players who liked island expeditions. Even now, island expeditions offer hundreds of different rewards that can be found nowhere else. These include special mounts as well as interesting transmog sets, numerous toys, and a whole lot for pet collectors.
Mounts like this parrot will soon be farmable solo.
All of this can soon be farmed solo, so one will no longer be dependent on a group.
When is it coming? There is currently no release date for Patch 9.1.5. However, the glory system provides a potential hint at this. Because until October 20, it is possible to reach new glory levels. Only then will all characters be “fully” and maximally developed. That would be a good date to release Patch 9.1.5 shortly thereafter.
More news about World of Warcraft on MeinMMO can be found here:
What does Blizzard intend with this? Being able to complete island expeditions solo is a wish that players had right from the start of Shadowlands. After all, there are numerous achievements, toys, mounts, and transmog that still look quite stylish.
Since Blizzard will mainly be making improvements with Patch 9.1.5 and needs to offer players some content as simply as possible to bridge the gap until 9.2, this is a good opportunity for island expeditions.
Will you catch up on the islands and earn all the rewards? Or can’t even ten Tauren get you back to the islands?
This is an AI-powered translation. Some inaccuracies might exist.
For FIFA 22, there will be an extensive soundtrack again, for which there is already some information available. We will show you which songs could make it into the game.
Every year, alongside gameplay and graphics, the soundtrack also plays an important role in FIFA. There will be a new soundtrack with numerous new songs in FIFA 22 as well. Some leaks from the closed beta of FIFA 22 are now revealing which songs that could be.
We will show you a list of the leaked songs from FIFA 22. However, you should keep in mind that EA has not officially confirmed any of these songs yet. Therefore, the information should be taken with caution.
Where do the leaks come from? The FIFA Twitter channel FUTZone (via Twitter) has published a first list of supposed songs for FIFA 22, which you can see here:
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When will the official soundtrack be released? It is still unknown when EA will release the official soundtrack for FIFA 22. In the past, EA has usually revealed the new FIFA songs just before the official release of the game. It may take until mid-September before we know all the songs from the soundtrack.
How important is the soundtrack to you in FIFA? Do you have favorite songs? Please let us know in the comments!
The upcoming MMORPG Lost Ark is breaking one record after another. Now, it is even ranked second among the most popular games in its home country of Korea, surpassing PUBG, which had held that spot for a long time. What makes it so successful?
What has happened? The Korean website Gamemeca has updated its monthly report, and a surprise was revealed. Lost Ark has passed FIFA and PUBG to take second place among the most popular online games in South Korea.
Thus, it is no longer just the most popular MMORPG in the homeland of MMORPGs, but it can also stand out against other major genres. Especially the battle royale shooter Player Unknown’s Battlegrounds, which Lost Ark has surpassed, is very popular in Korea. Now, Lost Ark only has the final boss of online games above it: League of Legends.
Why now? Lost Ark has been on the market in Korea since 2018. It has always been popular, but currently, there is a lot going on around the MMORPG even for these standards. Just recently, the game broke another record and managed to attract 240,000 fans simultaneously in Lost Ark.
This is mainly due to the summer update wave “Astalgia” that has kept Lost Ark supplied with new content over the past months. Recently, the latest class Sorceress joined the game and set a player record. The Sorceress is already extremely popular, which could also lead to an increase in the overall popularity of the title.
Another reason to consider is the upcoming release in the West. Amazon and Smilegate are ramping up their advertising for Lost Ark, and Korea is not entirely unaffected by this. Some Korean Lost Ark players have also pre-ordered the Western version and want to experience their favorite game without the pay-to-win elements. This is also contributing to an increase in overall popularity.
The list of the most popular online games in South Korea as of August 17, 2021 (via Gamemeca.com)
The list is translated from Korean, so not all game names are spelled correctly. Gamemeca creates the ranking based on its own user ratings, Twitch viewer counts, and evaluations from Korean internet cafés. Gaming in these cafés is widespread in Korea.
Newcomer takes off
What else is interesting about the list? One thing that stands out immediately is ODIN: Valhalla Rising. Most games on the list are relatively old and have been established for a long time. In contrast, Odin is already in 18th place and not even half a year old. If the game ever comes to the West, it could definitely be exciting for you.
The freshly launched Bless Unleashed also makes it to the list – at least in 44th place. This is not surprising since Bless is also doing well here. While one of the biggest criticisms of Bless Unleashed in the West is its pay-to-win mechanics, that is far less of a problem in Korea.
With a sad glance at the end of the list, we note that the upcoming MMORPG Elyon is no longer in the top 50. Elyon will be released on September 29 in Europe, just one day after the highly anticipated New World. Therefore, the game’s release is not necessarily under the best star for us. Nevertheless, we hope for the best for Elyon.
What do you think of the list? Are you surprised by any of the entries or not? And are you as excited about Lost Ark as I am? Feel free to share it with us in the comments.
In 2021, gamescom will be entirely digital again. Nevertheless, streamers Gronkh, Papaplatte, and Trymacs want to hold the streaming event “Spielesause” in one of the huge halls. But what can you expect at the event, where can you watch it, and when does the party start?
This is the event: Once again, the gamescom fair must take place on your screens. Due to the ongoing Covid pandemic, the doors unfortunately remain closed. The livestreaming event of the 3 streamers Gronkh, Papaplatte, and Trymacs is supposed to create authentic gamescom vibes.
When, where, and what? What you need to know about the Spielesause
What can you expect? On about 4,000 m², the Twitch stars plan a 3-day “event of superlatives” and invite many guests from TV and the web for video game sessions and sports tournaments.
What you can see at the Spielesause:
Among the guests are well-known streamers, YouTubers, as well as TV stars and musicians
Gaming streams with changing guests
a football tournament
a charity poker tournament
musical performances
cooking show in a specially set up studio
Who is participating? Not all guests of the Spielesause 2021 are known yet. We do know for sure about celebrities like Tokio Hotel, Majan, Clueso, Kaya Yanar, or streamers like Phunk Royal, CryspyRob, and Rewinside, who will enrich the gamescom event.
When and where does it start? The Spielesause runs from August 26 to 29, so it will be broadcasted over a total of 3 days. You can follow the live event on the Twitch channels of Gronkh, Papaplatte, and Trymacs. You can also find the Spielesause easily through the content portal Gamecsom-Now (via Now.Gamescom).
Here you can find even more hot info about gamescom 2021
Funny trailer for the Spielesause shows child-Gronkh in the sandbox
This is what the trailer shows: In a funny teaser trailer, the people behind the Spielesause show how the idea is said to have come about: Gronkh (44), Trymacs (26), and Papaplatte (23) swore in the sandbox that they would hold a “Spielesause, like the one from the 7th grade”. When they grow up, they want to host the biggest Spielesause of all time.
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Moreover, the trailer is full of references to the gaming cosmos. The jokes in the trailer are wonderfully commented by Dennis Schmidt-Foß in the voice-over. Foß is mainly known as the voice actor of Hollywood star Ryan Reynolds (Deadpool, 6 Underground, and Free Guy).
The head of Final Fantasy XIV, Naoki Yoshida, addresses the players in a message. He informs that part of the MMORPG’s servers are severely overloaded and the developers are working on solutions to the problem. Meanwhile, players joke that the launch of the new expansion Endwalker will be fun.
Several major streamers like Asmongold, RichWCampbell, and Summit1g started playing FFXIV in the past month, bringing their communities into the game. They provided the MMORPG with a lot of fresh media attention.
Now, Yoshida speaks again in a blog post (via Lodestone) with news about the current situation regarding player numbers and the servers.
An entire data center is overloaded
What the head says: In the new blog post, Director Yoshida addresses the players and explains that the FFXIV team continues to fight against server overcrowding. With the current maintenance, the number of maximum simultaneous logins on the European servers will be increased. This is to counteract the long queues that occur mainly in the evenings and on weekends.
Yoshida also reported that the 8 servers of the Aether data center in Final Fantasy XIV are completely overloaded:
All worlds within the North American Aether data center will be classified as full after the maintenance for Patch 5.58. Despite our efforts to raise the limit of simultaneous logins as much as possible, the number of logged-in players continuously reaches the upper limit on all worlds. For this reason, we have decided to take the following measures at this time.
Until the worlds are no longer categorized as full, it will not be possible for players to create new characters on the worlds of the Aether data center. We sincerely apologize for the inconvenience to those of you who wish to embark on new adventures with your friends.
If we were to allow another increase in player characters, it could extend the login wait times to several hours. That is why we have decided on this measure. We cannot deny that there is also an enormous player presence on the Primal and Crystal data centers, but we would truly appreciate it if you could consider creating a new character on those worlds.
Naoki Yoshida in the blog post
The 8 servers of Aether are completely closed to new players. There, neither new characters can be created, nor can one transfer to these servers through the paid world transfer function. To counter this, other NA servers have also been set to “preferred” to make a switch from Aether more attractive. New players receive significant EXP bonuses and other benefits on preferred worlds.
In the past, it has often happened that individual servers of FFXIV were marked as overloaded and closed. Especially the popular role-playing server Balmung frequently fell into this category. However, it has never happened before that an entire data center had to be closed due to being overwhelmed by new players.
This is what the developers will do: In the blog post, Yoshida further explains that the developer and infrastructure teams continue to work on a solution to the problem. New additional servers are to help alleviate the load. However, procurement is proving to be problematic in the current situation.
On one hand, there continues to be a global shortage of semiconductors needed for the servers. On the other hand, there has been a significant increase in COVID-19 infections in Japan, which restricts the international travel capabilities of the infrastructure team. Yoshida expresses concerns about whether the team can work on new data centers on-site.
Players expect burning servers at the release of Endwalker
This is what is being discussed: In the reddit thread regarding the blog post and on social media, FFXIV players are discussing the current situation around server overcrowding. Their reactions are a mix of amazement and some gallows humor about the new expansion Endwalker, which will be released on November 23.
Actually, FFXIV should currently be in a “quiet phase.” The time between the last patch of the current expansion and the first patch of the next expansion is usually a period when some players temporarily put their subscriptions on hold because they know that no major new content will be released.
Accordingly, many now expect a further significant increase in active player numbers when inactive players reactivate their subscriptions and return to FFXIV at the release of Endwalker.
The Endwalker expansion will be hot. Literally. The servers will be burning.
reddit user Fuzia
[…] And it’s supposed to be the inactive time right now. We will be stuck in queues during Endwalker until December.
reddit user Stepwolve
The launch of the last expansion, Shadowbringers, went remarkably smoothly and without issues, which earned the developers much praise from the community for their work. Many players feared that a situation would arise again like during the launch of Stormblood. Back then, countless players got stuck in a particular quest known as “Raubahn EX”.
Even though the developer team led by Yoshida is making efforts to counter the server overload, there are doubts that they will manage to resolve the issues by the launch of Endwalker. The current situation regarding COVID and the semiconductor shortage for the servers complicates their work.
What do you think? Do you expect a difficult start for Endwalker or do you believe that Yoshida and his team will get the issues under control by the end of November? Discuss with us in the comments.
This is an AI-powered translation. Some inaccuracies might exist.
The gamescom 2021 takes place digitally again this year. We from MeinMMO show you the starting and ending dates of the fair, why you don’t have to worry about ticket prices, and where you can watch it.
When does gamescom 2021 start? The start of gamescom 2021 is on Wednesday, August 25. The end of gamescom 2021 is on Friday, August 27. You can participate in the digital game fair on these three days.
Ticket Prices? For gamescom 2021, you do not need to and cannot purchase a ticket. The game fair will again take place purely digitally this year. For all fans and interested viewers, the event is free of charge. You cannot unlock any advantages or premium content for an additional fee. All content is available to all viewers.
gamescom 2021 Schedule – The Schedule with Program
This is the plan so far:
Day
Program
MO August 23
devcom content focus days
DI August 24
devcom content focus days
MI August 25
gamescom: Opening Night Live Start of gamevasion 2021 devcom business focus days
DO August 26
gamescom Start of the game party devcom business focus days Political opening gamescom congress
FR August 27
gamescom devcom business focus days Debate Royale gamescom congress
You can find the complete program schedule of the shows here:
Disclaimer: As in the previous year, Webedia Gaming (GameStar, GamePro, MeinMMO) produces the German-language gamescom studio. Thus, we also accompany the digital game fair 2021 as a media partner.
gamescom 2021 Registration – How can I participate?
Since August 9, you can register for gamescom 2021 on the new community hub “gamescom now”. Registration is free and brings you various advantages:
Here you have an overview of all shows and the content of the gamescom partners
Registered users can receive various goodies on the pages of the gamescom partners
You can create your own watch list of streams that interest you
The registration also allows you to participate in gamescom EPIX
Moreover, the gamescom now page has been redesigned and offers an improved user interface that is also specifically optimized for mobile use.
What is gamescom EPIX? This is a community event of gamescom 2021. Together with other participants, you can complete various quests that span all social media channels of gamescom: Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, TikTok, and more.
If a quest is completed successfully, one of the gamescom vaults opens, and you receive rewards such as discount codes for gamescom goodies or electronics from Panasonic. There are also special, strictly limited prizes that are still kept secret.
gamescom 2021 Stream – Where can you watch?
You can conveniently follow gamescom 2021 from home or on the go via stream:
In our stream from Monsters and Explosions, you can expect great content about the announcements, games, and exhibitors of gamescom 2021. It starts already on the evening of August 25, and on August 26 and 27, there will be a program from 2:00 PM to 10:30 PM each day.
Michael Obermeier from GameStar will jointly host the daytime program with Kiara Hufnagel. Ann-Kathrin Kuhls from GamePro and Julius Busch from the Twitch channel MAX will host the evening shows.
Gamevasion 2021 with Gnu, Maxim, Kalle, HandOfBlood, and Rocket Beans TV
What’s happening there? Alongside gamescom 2021, Gamevasion 2021 is taking place. This content is also free for you. In the livestream program stretching over three days, you can expect a lot of content. Among them are city duels like Hamburg vs Spandau, Letsplays, the Gamevasion Championships, hardware streams, interviews, and more.
Etienne Gardé from Rocket Beans says about the event: “The Gamevasion is an absolute mega-spectacle. Besides celebrating the latest games during gamescom, the German gaming elite and Spandau meet again in an epic battle – Good vs Evil, Shire vs Mordor, Big City vs Suburb, Skill vs … not so much skill –, to bring the trophy back to Hamburg. As the figurehead, inventor, and face of Rocket Beans, I, Etienne Gardé, Nerd Quiz winner Season 2 and second place in the ‘Neckermann Street Fighter 2 Tournament’ of 1989, am particularly looking forward to this event!”
When does it air? The show runs from August 25 to August 27. The start is on August 25 with the broadcast of the Opening Night Live. The entire event will be streamed on five channels.
Game Party with Gronkh, Papaplatte, and Trymacs
What’s happening there? At the Game Party, the German streamers Gronkh, Papaplatte, and Trymacs host a streaming event that runs over several days.
The content includes live concerts, game shows, pen & paper, an e-sport arena, and surprises for the viewers. In a studio of over 4000 m², a TV kitchen, powerful gaming setups, and a large sports field are waiting to be used.
What games will be shown? At gamescom, you’ll get new information about games that are currently still in development and will be released, as well as major updates to already released games. Some big titles that will be featured again include:
In addition, the gamescom awards 2021 will award the best games in several categories. Among the nominees are already 11 exciting titles for multiplayer fans. It is to be expected that at least something will be shown about the winners as well.
When will the exhibitors and games be shown? They will present their content in the Content Hub gamescom now, in various gamescom shows like the Opening Night Live or the gamescom studio. Also in productions by media and reach partners.
This is known: There is already an insight into which exhibitors will be participating digitally at the fair. These include the following developers and publishers:
505 Games
Activision
Aerosoft
All iN!
Assemble Entertainment
astragon Entertainment
BANDAI NAMCO Entertainment
Bethesda Softworks
COM2US Europe
Crytivo
Daedalic
Electronic Arts
Ford Motor Company
Freedom Games
Goblinz Studio
greenman gaming publishing
Headup Games
Humble Games
Indie Arena Booth
Koch Media
Konami Digital Entertainment
Manticore Games
Marmalade Game Studios
META Publishing
miHoYo
Modern Wolf
Modus Games
Nekki NExT Studios (Tencent Games)
Pearl Abyss Corp
Piepacker
Raw Fury AB
Science City – Arctic Game Lab
SEGA Europe
Strikerz Inc
Team17
Techland
Thumbage
Thunderful Games
Ubisoft
Unlimitedworld.de
VW
Wargaming
Whisper Interactive
Xbox
Yooreka Studio
This list will be expanded by the start of gamescom 2021.
Letsplay4Charity – Gaming for a good cause
What is it? As an official partner, the association Letsplay4Charity will be present at gamescom 2021. The project has a community YouTube and Twitch channel and collects donations for a charitable purpose – in this case for the victims of the flood disaster in July.
The association collects donations that you can submit even before the official start of the streams, if you like (via letsplay4charity.betterplace.org).
When and where can I watch? During gamescom, you can watch live on the Twitch channel of Letsplay4Charity (via twitch.tv). The streams start on Friday, August 27 at 3:00 PM and run until Sunday at various slots:
