Switching to Team Red, Blue, or Yellow in Pokémon GO will be possible. Niantic plans to work on allowing you to change your team in the future. However, the team switch seems to be a long way off.
Team switch not possible so far: In Pokémon GO, you choose early on which team you want to belong to: Red, Yellow, or Blue. Once you have made that selection, you have to stay in your team.
Advantages and disadvantages: In the game, there are advantages due to the teams, such as team bonuses in Raid battles. This gives you a few more Premier Balls. A disadvantage players see is that they are not in the same team as their friends. They would like to switch.
Text on support page revised
A Reddit user named bakytn noticed that Niantic’s text about the team switch has changed on the support page.
Before: The German translation says “At this time, it is not possible to change your team.”
After: In English, however, we learn: “Unfortunately, it is currently not possible to switch your team. We plan to add this feature to Pokémon GO in the future. We are first working on a few other major features. Therefore, there is currently no estimate of when team switching will be possible.”
This text has apparently been changed recently.
Clearly stated: As for when the team switch will be possible in Pokémon GO, Niantic does not give the usual vague indication that the feature is coming “soon”. They clearly state that other features will take precedence before they work on this function.
What is certain: What is clear is that a team switch feature in Pokémon GO is planned.
Joy among the trainers: This “announcement” delights many trainers. They write on Reddit that they wish for such a feature to play Pokémon GO better with their friends or family.
Trainer jakbutt writes: “My brother, my father, and I always play together and have lots of fun. The only problem? All three of us belong to different teams. Maybe we were naive, but we had no idea how important this team selection would ultimately be. […] It doesn’t matter to me to be on the dominant team or with the underdogs. I just want to be on the same team as my family.”
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The Behemoth is giving players quite a bit of trouble in Monster Hunter: World. However, a Korean player has managed to take down the beast in a speed kill solo. We show you his builds.
For nearly a week now, Behemoth has been rampaging in Monster Hunter: World and has already taken down countless hunter groups. YouTuber United Potatoes has found a build that allows him to take down Behemoth solo in just 11:11 minutes.
If you no longer want to rely on other players in the group, then check out his video of the solo kill.
Utilized Builds
Phase 1
Used Armor:
Head: Kulve Taroth’s Fury Beta
Torso: Empress Armor Beta
Arms: Xeno’jiiva Armguards Beta
Belt: Xeno’jiiva Waistband Beta
Legs: Xeno’jiiva Greaves Beta
Skills:
Attack Boost Level 7
Slingshot Capacity Level 3
Peak Performance Level 3
Fortify Level 1
Xeno’jiiva Set Bonus
Phase 2
Used Armor:
Head: Kulve Taroth’s Fury Beta
Torso: Empress Armor Beta
Arms: Xeno’jiiva Armguards Beta
Belt: Xeno’jiiva Waistband Beta
Legs: Xeno’jiiva Greaves Beta
Skills:
Attack Boost Level 6
Slingshot Capacity Level 3
Peak Performance Level 3
Artillery Level 3
Fortify Level 1
Xeno’jiiva Set Bonus
Phase 3
Used Armor:
Head: Xeno’jiiva Helm Beta
Torso: Empress Armor Beta
Arms: Xeno’jiiva Armguards Beta
Belt: Xeno’jiiva Waistband Beta
Legs: Kirin Greaves Beta
Skills:
Attack Boost Level 6
Slingshot Capacity Level 3
Peak Performance Level 3
Health Boost Level 2
Fortify Level 1
Xeno’jiiva Set Bonus
Phase 4
Head: Bazel Helm Beta
Torso: Kirin Jacket Beta
Arms: Xeno’jiiva Armguards Beta
Belt: Xeno’jiiva Waistband Beta
Legs: Xeno’jiiva Greaves Beta
Skills:
Earmuffs Level 5
Attack Boost Level 5
Slingshot Capacity Level 3
Peak Performance Level 2
Fortify Level 1
Xeno’jiiva Set Bonus
Can’t get enough of the Behemoth? No worries, a stronger one is coming soon:
In World of Warcraft, there are some characters who embody references to other universes. The PS4 title God of War has also found its way into World of Warcraft and even reacts to current events in the game and community.
The wandering Orcs in Orgrimmar: In the Valley of Wisdom in Orgrimmar, a Wandering Warrior and a Wandering Boy stand and occasionally talk to each other. Their appearance and equipment resemble Kratos and his son from God of War.
For several days, the two have been discussing a current topic: The burning of Teldrassil.
They are not very talkative; one can stand by them for hours without them saying anything. As wowhead reports, they, however, have new dialogues since Sylvanas burned down the homeland of the Night Elves, Teldrassil.
“No one should lose their homeland”: The destruction of the World Tree particularly affects the small unnamed Orc. The fact that the Night Elves have lost their homeland reminds him very much that the Orcs themselves once lost Draenor.
He recounts that his mother often spoke about it – and that it probably made her cry. He stands firmly against something like that happening: “I think no one should lose their homeland. Not if it makes them feel that way.”
You can find the two at the marked position in the Valley of Wisdom in Orgrimmar.
The question of honor: The older warrior is more concerned about what light this attack on the Horde, to which he belongs, casts. When asked if the Horde has done something evil, he replies: “War is a test of honor. Once lost, it is not easily regained.”
Mirror of the community: Particularly interesting about the conversation is that these thoughts are currently circulating through the community anyway. Many players are worried about whether the Horde is acting honorably and rightly, or just becoming an evil killing machine.
Have you already found and eavesdropped on the two Orcs? What do you think about their focus on current topics? Would you like to see more of this? Leave us a comment!
But Epic is also pursuing long-term goals. Months ago, they announced that they would shift the meta away from building and make other play styles attractive. This decision is now being implemented consistently.
But not everyone is a fan of this patch pace: Critics cite “Paragon,” Epic’s previous game, as a negative example.
Here, Epic also made drastic directional changes. Many accuse Epic of having “patched Paragon to death.”
What happened with the last game? A big change, the Monolith update, revamped Paragon at the end of 2016. The game became significantly faster and less complex. This temporarily attracted more players, but they did not stay long. Epic, however, sustainably alienated the regular players with the change.
Paragon was later discontinued. Also because Fortnite was so phenomenally successful.
Fortnite is one of the biggest games in the world, so far from being discontinued, as a game can be. Yet the parallels to the Monolith update back then are obvious.
The meta can change again: However, the comparison to Paragon is also somewhat unfair. The game was then with its back against the wall, and Epic had to find a solution to attract more players.
Fortnite is in a different situation than Paragon:
With the next patch this week, Epic could steer the meta in another direction again.
Or the mood changes, and players find the new “Spray and Pray” meta not so terrible over time, once they get used to it.
That’s the beauty of Fortnite’s hit-and-run tactic: Tomorrow the game could look completely different again.
Explosives serve as backup: The second power in Fortnite has become explosive weapons. Here, especially C4 and rockets are considered killers. Because they can reliably blow up buildings and eliminate opponents.
Building no longer protects: The frustration with the weakened building has become a constant topic in the community.
Others counter: The tactic of simply walling up is at least as boring as shooting down this defense.
Are Fortnite’s quick patches a problem?
A mistake by the company? Epic has the reputation of patching quickly and willingly – and radically. Epic does not shy away from making significant directional changes. In Fortnite, they react to fan comments within hours.
But Epic is also pursuing long-term goals. Months ago, they announced that they would shift the meta away from building and make other play styles attractive. This decision is now being implemented consistently.
Paragon as a negative example
But not everyone is a fan of this patch pace: Critics cite “Paragon,” Epic’s previous game, as a negative example.
Here, Epic also made drastic directional changes. Many accuse Epic of having “patched Paragon to death.”
What happened with the last game? A big change, the Monolith update, revamped Paragon at the end of 2016. The game became significantly faster and less complex. This temporarily attracted more players, but they did not stay long. Epic, however, sustainably alienated the regular players with the change.
Paragon was later discontinued. Also because Fortnite was so phenomenally successful.
Fortnite is one of the biggest games in the world, so far from being discontinued, as a game can be. Yet the parallels to the Monolith update back then are obvious.
No reason to panic
The meta can change again: However, the comparison to Paragon is also somewhat unfair. The game was then with its back against the wall, and Epic had to find a solution to attract more players.
Fortnite is in a different situation than Paragon:
With the next patch this week, Epic could steer the meta in another direction again.
Or the mood changes, and players find the new “Spray and Pray” meta not so terrible over time, once they get used to it.
That’s the beauty of Fortnite’s hit-and-run tactic: Tomorrow the game could look completely different again.
Fortnite is one of the biggest games in the world, so far from being discontinued, as a game can be. Yet the parallels to the Monolith update back then are obvious.
No reason to panic
The meta can change again: However, the comparison to Paragon is also somewhat unfair. The game was then with its back against the wall, and Epic had to find a solution to attract more players.
Fortnite is in a different situation than Paragon:
With the next patch this week, Epic could steer the meta in another direction again.
Or the mood changes, and players find the new “Spray and Pray” meta not so terrible over time, once they get used to it.
That’s the beauty of Fortnite’s hit-and-run tactic: Tomorrow the game could look completely different again.
Explosives serve as backup: The second power in Fortnite has become explosive weapons. Here, especially C4 and rockets are considered killers. Because they can reliably blow up buildings and eliminate opponents.
Building no longer protects: The frustration with the weakened building has become a constant topic in the community.
Others counter: The tactic of simply walling up is at least as boring as shooting down this defense.
Are Fortnite’s quick patches a problem?
A mistake by the company? Epic has the reputation of patching quickly and willingly – and radically. Epic does not shy away from making significant directional changes. In Fortnite, they react to fan comments within hours.
But Epic is also pursuing long-term goals. Months ago, they announced that they would shift the meta away from building and make other play styles attractive. This decision is now being implemented consistently.
Paragon as a negative example
But not everyone is a fan of this patch pace: Critics cite “Paragon,” Epic’s previous game, as a negative example.
Here, Epic also made drastic directional changes. Many accuse Epic of having “patched Paragon to death.”
What happened with the last game? A big change, the Monolith update, revamped Paragon at the end of 2016. The game became significantly faster and less complex. This temporarily attracted more players, but they did not stay long. Epic, however, sustainably alienated the regular players with the change.
Paragon was later discontinued. Also because Fortnite was so phenomenally successful.
Fortnite is one of the biggest games in the world, so far from being discontinued, as a game can be. Yet the parallels to the Monolith update back then are obvious.
No reason to panic
The meta can change again: However, the comparison to Paragon is also somewhat unfair. The game was then with its back against the wall, and Epic had to find a solution to attract more players.
Fortnite is in a different situation than Paragon:
With the next patch this week, Epic could steer the meta in another direction again.
Or the mood changes, and players find the new “Spray and Pray” meta not so terrible over time, once they get used to it.
That’s the beauty of Fortnite’s hit-and-run tactic: Tomorrow the game could look completely different again.
But Epic is also pursuing long-term goals. Months ago, they announced that they would shift the meta away from building and make other play styles attractive. This decision is now being implemented consistently.
Paragon as a negative example
But not everyone is a fan of this patch pace: Critics cite “Paragon,” Epic’s previous game, as a negative example.
Here, Epic also made drastic directional changes. Many accuse Epic of having “patched Paragon to death.”
What happened with the last game? A big change, the Monolith update, revamped Paragon at the end of 2016. The game became significantly faster and less complex. This temporarily attracted more players, but they did not stay long. Epic, however, sustainably alienated the regular players with the change.
Paragon was later discontinued. Also because Fortnite was so phenomenally successful.
Fortnite is one of the biggest games in the world, so far from being discontinued, as a game can be. Yet the parallels to the Monolith update back then are obvious.
No reason to panic
The meta can change again: However, the comparison to Paragon is also somewhat unfair. The game was then with its back against the wall, and Epic had to find a solution to attract more players.
Fortnite is in a different situation than Paragon:
With the next patch this week, Epic could steer the meta in another direction again.
Or the mood changes, and players find the new “Spray and Pray” meta not so terrible over time, once they get used to it.
That’s the beauty of Fortnite’s hit-and-run tactic: Tomorrow the game could look completely different again.
Explosives serve as backup: The second power in Fortnite has become explosive weapons. Here, especially C4 and rockets are considered killers. Because they can reliably blow up buildings and eliminate opponents.
Building no longer protects: The frustration with the weakened building has become a constant topic in the community.
Others counter: The tactic of simply walling up is at least as boring as shooting down this defense.
Are Fortnite’s quick patches a problem?
A mistake by the company? Epic has the reputation of patching quickly and willingly – and radically. Epic does not shy away from making significant directional changes. In Fortnite, they react to fan comments within hours.
But Epic is also pursuing long-term goals. Months ago, they announced that they would shift the meta away from building and make other play styles attractive. This decision is now being implemented consistently.
Paragon as a negative example
But not everyone is a fan of this patch pace: Critics cite “Paragon,” Epic’s previous game, as a negative example.
Here, Epic also made drastic directional changes. Many accuse Epic of having “patched Paragon to death.”
What happened with the last game? A big change, the Monolith update, revamped Paragon at the end of 2016. The game became significantly faster and less complex. This temporarily attracted more players, but they did not stay long. Epic, however, sustainably alienated the regular players with the change.
Paragon was later discontinued. Also because Fortnite was so phenomenally successful.
Fortnite is one of the biggest games in the world, so far from being discontinued, as a game can be. Yet the parallels to the Monolith update back then are obvious.
No reason to panic
The meta can change again: However, the comparison to Paragon is also somewhat unfair. The game was then with its back against the wall, and Epic had to find a solution to attract more players.
Fortnite is in a different situation than Paragon:
With the next patch this week, Epic could steer the meta in another direction again.
Or the mood changes, and players find the new “Spray and Pray” meta not so terrible over time, once they get used to it.
That’s the beauty of Fortnite’s hit-and-run tactic: Tomorrow the game could look completely different again.
Fortnite is one of the biggest games in the world, so far from being discontinued, as a game can be. Yet the parallels to the Monolith update back then are obvious.
No reason to panic
The meta can change again: However, the comparison to Paragon is also somewhat unfair. The game was then with its back against the wall, and Epic had to find a solution to attract more players.
Fortnite is in a different situation than Paragon:
With the next patch this week, Epic could steer the meta in another direction again.
Or the mood changes, and players find the new “Spray and Pray” meta not so terrible over time, once they get used to it.
That’s the beauty of Fortnite’s hit-and-run tactic: Tomorrow the game could look completely different again.
But Epic is also pursuing long-term goals. Months ago, they announced that they would shift the meta away from building and make other play styles attractive. This decision is now being implemented consistently.
Paragon as a negative example
But not everyone is a fan of this patch pace: Critics cite “Paragon,” Epic’s previous game, as a negative example.
Here, Epic also made drastic directional changes. Many accuse Epic of having “patched Paragon to death.”
What happened with the last game? A big change, the Monolith update, revamped Paragon at the end of 2016. The game became significantly faster and less complex. This temporarily attracted more players, but they did not stay long. Epic, however, sustainably alienated the regular players with the change.
Paragon was later discontinued. Also because Fortnite was so phenomenally successful.
Fortnite is one of the biggest games in the world, so far from being discontinued, as a game can be. Yet the parallels to the Monolith update back then are obvious.
No reason to panic
The meta can change again: However, the comparison to Paragon is also somewhat unfair. The game was then with its back against the wall, and Epic had to find a solution to attract more players.
Fortnite is in a different situation than Paragon:
With the next patch this week, Epic could steer the meta in another direction again.
Or the mood changes, and players find the new “Spray and Pray” meta not so terrible over time, once they get used to it.
That’s the beauty of Fortnite’s hit-and-run tactic: Tomorrow the game could look completely different again.
Explosives serve as backup: The second power in Fortnite has become explosive weapons. Here, especially C4 and rockets are considered killers. Because they can reliably blow up buildings and eliminate opponents.
Building no longer protects: The frustration with the weakened building has become a constant topic in the community.
Others counter: The tactic of simply walling up is at least as boring as shooting down this defense.
Are Fortnite’s quick patches a problem?
A mistake by the company? Epic has the reputation of patching quickly and willingly – and radically. Epic does not shy away from making significant directional changes. In Fortnite, they react to fan comments within hours.
But Epic is also pursuing long-term goals. Months ago, they announced that they would shift the meta away from building and make other play styles attractive. This decision is now being implemented consistently.
Paragon as a negative example
But not everyone is a fan of this patch pace: Critics cite “Paragon,” Epic’s previous game, as a negative example.
Here, Epic also made drastic directional changes. Many accuse Epic of having “patched Paragon to death.”
What happened with the last game? A big change, the Monolith update, revamped Paragon at the end of 2016. The game became significantly faster and less complex. This temporarily attracted more players, but they did not stay long. Epic, however, sustainably alienated the regular players with the change.
Paragon was later discontinued. Also because Fortnite was so phenomenally successful.
Fortnite is one of the biggest games in the world, so far from being discontinued, as a game can be. Yet the parallels to the Monolith update back then are obvious.
No reason to panic
The meta can change again: However, the comparison to Paragon is also somewhat unfair. The game was then with its back against the wall, and Epic had to find a solution to attract more players.
Fortnite is in a different situation than Paragon:
With the next patch this week, Epic could steer the meta in another direction again.
Or the mood changes, and players find the new “Spray and Pray” meta not so terrible over time, once they get used to it.
That’s the beauty of Fortnite’s hit-and-run tactic: Tomorrow the game could look completely different again.
Explosions and submachine guns define the new Fortnite. They shoot down the previously dominant buildings. Not every player is a fan of the rapid balance changes in Fortnite. Some fear that Epic might patch the game to death, just like their former game Paragon.
What happened? Epic patches their game Fortnite every week. Every two weeks, balance changes are included. These have created a clear picture in recent weeks, and it is now affecting gameplay: Buildings are becoming less important, and they can now be shot down with the dominant submachine guns.
This creates a new gameplay experience. Fortnite has moved away from the pump gun and building meta of the past months, towards a “I shoot everything down” play style.
Some call it “Spray and Pray”: Just shoot and hope you hit something.
Shotguns used to be the kings of Fortnite – not anymore
Shotguns are retired: For many seasons, shotguns dominated the game. Pump guns were extremely strong in close combat, especially with the double pump trick.
In combination with aggressive building, shotguns formed the basis for a play style that relied on quick reflexes, dynamism, and erecting fortresses.
After some nerfs, shotguns are now out of the game. At least that’s what the community thinks, as a recent image on reddit shows. Someone says: “Adjust the quality of shotguns according to their performance in the game” and marks all pump guns gray, the weakest color in the game.
Submachine guns dominate
SMGs dominate: The new super weapons are the submachine guns. Their advantage is that they work at close range and medium range and can accurately shoot down building parts.
Previously, only the mini-gun was geared towards breaking buildings, but now submachine guns also fulfill this function: Building no longer offers the protection it did just a few weeks ago.
That’s the beauty of Fortnite’s hit-and-run tactic: Tomorrow the game could look completely different again.
Fortnite is one of the biggest games in the world, so far from being discontinued, as a game can be. Yet the parallels to the Monolith update back then are obvious.
No reason to panic
The meta can change again: However, the comparison to Paragon is also somewhat unfair. The game was then with its back against the wall, and Epic had to find a solution to attract more players.
Fortnite is in a different situation than Paragon:
With the next patch this week, Epic could steer the meta in another direction again.
Or the mood changes, and players find the new “Spray and Pray” meta not so terrible over time, once they get used to it.
That’s the beauty of Fortnite’s hit-and-run tactic: Tomorrow the game could look completely different again.
But Epic is also pursuing long-term goals. Months ago, they announced that they would shift the meta away from building and make other play styles attractive. This decision is now being implemented consistently.
Paragon as a negative example
But not everyone is a fan of this patch pace: Critics cite “Paragon,” Epic’s previous game, as a negative example.
Here, Epic also made drastic directional changes. Many accuse Epic of having “patched Paragon to death.”
What happened with the last game? A big change, the Monolith update, revamped Paragon at the end of 2016. The game became significantly faster and less complex. This temporarily attracted more players, but they did not stay long. Epic, however, sustainably alienated the regular players with the change.
Paragon was later discontinued. Also because Fortnite was so phenomenally successful.
Fortnite is one of the biggest games in the world, so far from being discontinued, as a game can be. Yet the parallels to the Monolith update back then are obvious.
No reason to panic
The meta can change again: However, the comparison to Paragon is also somewhat unfair. The game was then with its back against the wall, and Epic had to find a solution to attract more players.
Fortnite is in a different situation than Paragon:
With the next patch this week, Epic could steer the meta in another direction again.
Or the mood changes, and players find the new “Spray and Pray” meta not so terrible over time, once they get used to it.
That’s the beauty of Fortnite’s hit-and-run tactic: Tomorrow the game could look completely different again.
Explosives serve as backup: The second power in Fortnite has become explosive weapons. Here, especially C4 and rockets are considered killers. Because they can reliably blow up buildings and eliminate opponents.
Building no longer protects: The frustration with the weakened building has become a constant topic in the community.
Others counter: The tactic of simply walling up is at least as boring as shooting down this defense.
Are Fortnite’s quick patches a problem?
A mistake by the company? Epic has the reputation of patching quickly and willingly – and radically. Epic does not shy away from making significant directional changes. In Fortnite, they react to fan comments within hours.
But Epic is also pursuing long-term goals. Months ago, they announced that they would shift the meta away from building and make other play styles attractive. This decision is now being implemented consistently.
Paragon as a negative example
But not everyone is a fan of this patch pace: Critics cite “Paragon,” Epic’s previous game, as a negative example.
Here, Epic also made drastic directional changes. Many accuse Epic of having “patched Paragon to death.”
What happened with the last game? A big change, the Monolith update, revamped Paragon at the end of 2016. The game became significantly faster and less complex. This temporarily attracted more players, but they did not stay long. Epic, however, sustainably alienated the regular players with the change.
Paragon was later discontinued. Also because Fortnite was so phenomenally successful.
Fortnite is one of the biggest games in the world, so far from being discontinued, as a game can be. Yet the parallels to the Monolith update back then are obvious.
No reason to panic
The meta can change again: However, the comparison to Paragon is also somewhat unfair. The game was then with its back against the wall, and Epic had to find a solution to attract more players.
Fortnite is in a different situation than Paragon:
With the next patch this week, Epic could steer the meta in another direction again.
Or the mood changes, and players find the new “Spray and Pray” meta not so terrible over time, once they get used to it.
That’s the beauty of Fortnite’s hit-and-run tactic: Tomorrow the game could look completely different again.
This is an AI-powered translation. Some inaccuracies might exist.
Rockstar Energy apparently launches a promotion for the Forsaken expansion of Destiny 2. Corresponding cans of the energy drink are already available in some countries. There hasn’t even been an announcement for the campaign yet.
As already for Destiny 2, there seems to be a deal for the Forsaken expansion between Rockstar Energy and Activision. Thematically inspired cans from the energy drink manufacturer are already in circulation and can be purchased regularly.
Fans are surprised, as there hasn’t even been an official announcement for the campaign – neither from Bungie, nor from Activision or Rockstar themselves. Even the corresponding website from Rockstar has only recently been updated with the necessary information and reveals almost no details about possible contents.
Energy drink buyers can soon redeem codes – this time for Forsaken
Cans are already available: The collector’s edition cans of Rockstar Energy drinks adorned with various heroes and villains from the Forsaken expansion are already regularly available in Germany, the USA, and some other countries. Here, the cans have already been spotted in some Lidl stores (Thanks to our reader D4Fr4nk for the tip and first images).
Various designs: According to the site description, there are supposed to be four different designs, but first image material suggests that there are more than just four designs – even if some cans are labeled X of 4. In addition to Ikora, Cayde, Shaxx, and Zavala, cans featuring some of the eight Barons have already been seen – labeled x of 8. It is possible that the designs may vary by country.
Soon you can redeem codes: The cans have codes under the lid that can be redeemed on the Destiny 2 page of Rockstar Energy but according to the labeling of the cans and the description on the site, it will not be possible until September 3, 2018.
Prizes are unclear: What you can score is also still unclear and very vaguely worded. According to the official description, it is generally about prizes and access to in-game competitions that you can win daily and weekly. However, what specific prizes are involved and whether there will also be quests or special in-game loot is not known. As soon as there is new information, we will provide it as soon as possible.
Studio Wildcard is currently apparently working on an online pirate game. For a short time, a trailer for Atlas appeared on the YouTube channel, but it was quickly removed.
Instead of a new dino adventure, Studio Wildcard, the developer of ARK: Survival Evolved, seems to be focusing on sea voyages and pirates. For a brief period, a trailer for Atlas was visible on the studio’s YouTube channel, but it apparently was not meant for the public.
Competition for Sea of Thieves?
What can be seen in the trailer? The trailer resembles scenes from Rare’s Sea of Thieves, but with more realistic graphics. Players set sail with their crew, follow treasure maps, dig up chests, and fight against skeletons.
There also seem to be fights against other players. In one scene, a foreign ship is boarded, and a duel against another character takes place. At another point, the player character is seen getting involved in a fistfight. The next image shows the player reloading their pistol while their opponent lurks in the distance.
What do the players think? There are mixed reactions in the forums and social media. Some express interest in a pirate game from Wildcard, while others are disappointed that the studio apparently prefers to focus on another project rather than addressing the issues with ARK: Survival Evolved.
Players particularly note the similarity to Sea of Thieves. The map-following and sea battles could have been inspired by Rare’s pirate game.
ARK fans complained that many assets from the trailer seem to have been taken directly from the survival game. Especially the animals and animations seemed familiar to players.
The first Private Beta weekend of Call of Duty: Black Ops 4 is coming to an end. Due to player feedback, there have already been initial changes, and more are expected for the next testing phase. We summarize the key adjustments for you.
On August 6 at 7 PM, the first Private Beta phase of Call of Duty: Black Ops 4 will end. Through player feedback, the developers at Treyarch have been made aware of numerous issues. Some have already been resolved, while others are still being worked on. We summarize the major changes that the first Beta weekend has brought and show you what players can expect during the second test weekend.
This is how the Black Ops 4 Beta changes after the first weekend
Studio gathers feedback: On the first day of the Private Beta, Treyarch focused on gathering feedback and identifying issues. They found the most pressing needs for action in the following areas:
Framerate: A bug was found that can severely negatively affect framerate for some players. There are also occasional performance drops on the Gridlock map.
Loading times: A bug causes very long waiting times for some players when loading the maps.
Weapon tuning: While they are closely examining the performance of all weapons, the SMG dominance has not gone unnoticed by the developers.
Special Issue Equipment/Weapons: They are still working on achieving an optimal balance here.
Bunny Hopping: The jumping and sliding behavior is being adjusted.
Spawns: Which Call of Duty has not had problems with spawn behavior?
Behavior of the free cursor in the User Interface: This new feature does not yet feel quite how it should.
By the way: There are many other aspects (including the dogs) that are currently being refined. However, we have focused on the most important problem areas.
On the second day, Treyarch introduced some new features:
The “Search and Destroy” mode was added as a Featured Playlist.
Double XP for weapons has been activated, allowing players to level up their arsenal faster.
The level cap of the Private Beta has been raised from 25 to 34.
Additionally, the first issues have already been addressed based on the collected data:
Numerous weapons have been tuned.
Various equipment has been adjusted.
Overall stability has been improved.
The performance on the Gridlock map has been optimized to prevent framerate drops.
Furthermore, it has been communicated that they are working more intensively on lobby times (the time between matches) and map loading times. The developers are aware that these times are long and are working on solutions to optimize these processes.
Already, a map preload has been activated in the lobbies. This now gives more time to edit classes, change score streaks, or view stats. Previously, you were looking at a static loading background.
On the third day of the Black Ops 4 Beta, there were further new features and fixes:
The “Kill Confirmed” mode was added to the Chaos TDM Playlist and included as a Featured Playlist.
Numerous spawn issues were fixed in Domination.
The selection of specialists in ongoing “Search & Destroy” matches was disabled. This prevents players from dying when they switch specialists during an ongoing round.
Numerous stability fixes and performance improvements.
Niantic confirms that Pokémon GO will receive a PvP feature later this year. We will show you various ways how the battles could look like.
Work on PvP, concerns from fans: The feature for trainer versus trainer battles is still in development and is expected to be released in 2018. Players express their concerns and state: With the current battle system, it wouldn’t be so great.
The PvP in Pokémon GO: Positives and Negatives
Fans have been waiting for this for a long time: The PvP feature has been a major topic in the Pokémon GO community for a long time. Niantic CEO John Hanke frequently stated in 2017 that PvP (player versus player) was one of the planned features for Pokémon GO. It has now been confirmed by Anne Beuttenmüller from the Niantic team that the feature is set to be released later this year.
Something new again:Trainers positively notice that with PvP battles there will be more variety in the game. So far, trainers can only battle arena defenders or raid bosses, which are computer-controlled. There have been no direct battles against other trainers.
Finding friends:This would also positively affect social interactions. If trainers are going on a joint raid adventure anyway, battles could bridge the waiting time and allow them to meet new players while battling against them.
A lot of work needed:Trainers negatively notice that the current battle system invites little to PvP battles. During battles, one often taps wildly on the smartphone display without any real tactic. In raid battles, if you dodge the opponent’s attacks, the game often does not realize it. Therefore, thorough improvements and bug fixes are necessary.
Here we present you 4 possibilities that could form the basis for a PvP system. These ideas come from social networks and are summarized opinions of many Pokémon GO trainers.
New battle system – turn-based?
Battle system needs to change: As feedback, one often reads on YouTube, Reddit, Facebook, and other social platforms that Niantic should implement a completely new battle system for PvP battles.
The fear: The battles should not depend on who can tap the display faster and more uncoordinated. Additionally, a faster smartphone or faster internet connection would clearly determine who the winner is.
The wish: A new battle system should be fair to all smartphones. Players even wish for a turn-based battle system, similar to what has been present since the beginning on the Game Boy. You choose one of several attacks or use an item, then it’s the opponent’s turn. This goes back and forth until a battle is decided.
This way, battles would be less dependent on the speed of smartphones or internet connection.
Fights would take place using the known system of 6 Pokémon. However, the opponent should not see which Pokémon will be used beforehand, so they cannot counter each one.
Excerpt from the attack selection of other Pokémon games
With status effects: They wish for status effects like “poisoned” or “burned”. These DOTs (Damage over Time) would be added with corresponding attacks.
The problem: The turn-based battle system faces criticism as trainers are uncertain whether this slow fighting style would fit Pokémon GO.
Leaderboard: Equal-strength players against each other
It should be fair: Regardless of whether Niantic implements a turn-based system or something completely different for battling against other trainers, the wish is that it should be fair.
The fear: Trainers who have been level 40 for a long time and have an extremely strong team would constantly defeat inexperienced players. Additionally, players with 2 accounts and 2 smartphones could repeatedly battle against themselves. If the system is linked to rewards, these players could exploit it easily.
The wish: A ranking system (ELO), like those found in other mobile games such as Clash of Clans or online games like League of Legends or Counter-Strike. The number of wins and losses determines where a trainer stands in the ranking. Weaker players would land in the Bronze League, while stronger players would play in the Diamond League or even the Challenger League.
The league overview of League of Legends. From Bronze to Challenger
Your opponents will then be randomly chosen from the same league by the system. This way, Bronze players should primarily play only against trainers who are also at this part of the ranking. Trainers from the Diamond League should then compete against other strong players from this high league.
The problem: The random opponent selection is not what many players desire. They would like to choose which trainer they face themselves. To keep battles fair, they wish for a different feature, such as a maximum point value for the competition points that a PvP team can have in total.
Maximum CP per team?
Equal-strength teams for everyone: With an upper limit for the maximum CP of a PvP team, they want to ensure that not 6 overpowering Pokémon compete against 6 average ones.
The fear: Players might simply combine their strongest 6 Pokémon into one team without any tactical advantages. This would negatively affect the fun factor.
The wish: A Pokémon PvP team is to consist of 6 monsters. However, the entire team should only reach a maximum CP value that is distributed among the different monsters. This could be divided into various categories. For example:
Maximum 2000 CP
Maximum 4000 CP
Maximum 6000 CP
Maximum 12,000 CP
Source: PokeWiki
If then two trainers agree on a fight, they can decide in advance which category they want to play in. Here, an automated system could intervene and pair trainers with the same battle category wishes for a match.
The problem: A maximum CP value for PvP teams would partially contradict the goals of Pokémon GO. Trainers would be less motivated to strengthen their monsters. Because as their CP increases, they would no longer fit into the categories.
Fighting only with friends?
More features for the friends list: Trainers suspect that Niantic will also use the new friends list for PvP. Trainers could then only battle against friends.
The fear: Friendships may not hold any value in PvP battles.
The wish: In PvP battles, one should only be allowed to face friends. Or: One should be able to compete against other players and friends. With friends, it should not matter how far away they are.
It is possible that Niantic will implement a similar function for PvP battles, as seen in trading: You would need to stand within a certain distance to the player for it to work. With strong friendships, this distance requirement for PvP battles could significantly increase or even be eliminated altogether.
The problem: Only part of the community wishes for such a feature. Other trainers do not want to associate the friends list with the PvP system.
Much potential in PvP battles
The above-mentioned fan wishes clearly show that there are many good approaches for PvP battles in Pokémon GO. However, considerable improvements are still needed everywhere.
Niantic may also be planning something entirely different that has nothing to do with the above-mentioned possibilities. The community is now eagerly awaiting the first details from Niantic regarding the PvP battles.
Which system would most closely match your wishes and what would you improve about it?
Battle for Azeroth is just around the corner. Therefore, we present to you the 5 things you should know before purchasing the WoW expansion.
On August 14, 2018, it will finally be time, World of Warcraft will launch its seventh expansion and reignite the war between Horde and Alliance with Battle for Azeroth. For those still undecided about whether to make the purchase, we present here 5 things that everyone should know before buying Battle for Azeroth!
1. Battle for Azeroth is not a PvP expansion
At the center of the expansion is the conflict between Horde and Alliance. Many players fear that Battle for Azeroth will be an expansion with a special focus on PvP, neglecting fans of PvE content. This is not the case. As usual, there is plenty of quests, new areas, dungeons, and raids.
While the conflict between Horde and Alliance is the driving story element, participation in PvP is not required. Although there are PvP content, the PvP servers have been abolished and replaced by a War Mode. PvP is thus an option on all servers – not a must and not a special focus of Battle for Azeroth.
For newcomers or returning players wanting to dip their toes into World of Warcraft with Battle for Azeroth, they might be intimidated by the 120 levels to climb. Blizzard has realized this as well, and therefore grants each buyer of the expansion a character boost to level 110. From this level, characters can join the new areas of Battle for Azeroth and immediately engage in the current content.
Leveling a second character becomes significantly faster if you want to play more heroes. There are rewarding heirlooms with XP bonuses and a look into our Level Guide will speed things up even further if you want to level up quickly.
3. More content for small groups
For those who only play World of Warcraft with friends, they may not always have enough people to form a complete dungeon group. Blizzard thought of these players with Battle for Azeroth, as there is plenty of content for groups of 3 players. The so-called “Island Expeditions” are designed for a trio and come in various difficulty levels.
On islands, the layout and tasks vary each time, players must collect Azerite (a new resource). Time pressure arises because a team from the opposing faction is also on the island. These NPCs act smarter than regular enemies, plan ambushes, or flee to regroup. For those looking for the right challenge, island expeditions can even be played against each other in PvP.
The best part: You don’t necessarily need a tank or healer. All players can participate with their favorite specialization. Three DPS are just as possible as three healers or three tanks – or any other conceivable combination. The island expedition adapts to the characters!
With Battle for Azeroth, Blizzard aims to cater to the nostalgic feelings of longtime Warcraft fans. For instance, there are the Warfronts, which essentially simulate battles from Warcraft III. Players must build bases, gather resources, upgrade their troops, and then storm the enemy’s camp. They take on the role of the hero who led the armies into battle in the RTS games back then.
At the start, there is only the battle in Arathi Highlands, where the fortress Stromgarde is contested. However, more warfronts will follow in the future, as there is already an initial hint of a battle in the Barrens.
Nostalgia seekers will likely be pleased – but also everyone else who wishes for new features in World of Warcraft.
5. More of the tried and true
Fundamentally, Battle for Azeroth focuses on what World of Warcraft has always done well. There is “more of the tried and true” and existing systems have been refined further to make them even better. Dungeons retain their endlessly scalable difficulty through “Mythic+”, world quests fill the time when you want to play alone, and the War Mode allows PvP players to experience the thrill of constant worry about a hostile attack.
With Battle for Azeroth, only a few new mechanics are introduced – but they are meaningful, such as communities for easier group finding or the integrated (optional) voice chat to enable easier communication in dungeons.
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Are there any other things that you think one should know before purchasing Battle for Azeroth?
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This is an AI-powered translation. Some inaccuracies might exist.
Albion Online started with the promise of becoming one of the first cross-platform MMOs. It was supposed to run on both PC and iOS and Android. But that seems no longer so important. Albion Online still has not had its release in the Apple Store or Google Play. Why not?
The promise: Albion Online set out with the idea that players could play on PC, iOS, and Android. All on one platform, all together.
The reality: Albion Online was released on PC in July 2017. It is now even on Steam. But the mobile versions are still lagging.
Download of Albion Online for iOS and Android already possible
Although Albion Online is already available on mobile, the MMORPG is still in beta there. It has to be downloaded manually:
Albion Online is not in the major showcases of the Apple Store or Google Play. In those places, tens of thousands of apps are searched, found, downloaded, and installed every day: But not the MMORPG from Germany.
Why has Albion Online not been released on mobile yet? The technical director of Sandbox Interactive, David Salz, recently discussed this in an interview with Gamesindustry.biz.
The world has changed in the last 6 years. The role of mobile for Albion Online is significantly smaller in 2018 than what was thought in 2012.
“Tablets looked like the next big thing”
Plans have changed: In 2012, when the idea for Albion Online originated, tablets were conquering the gaming industry. Salz says:
“It looked like tablets were the next big thing. Some people even said that would be the end of PCs – just like they always do. We thought: Okay, the [end of PCs] might not be what will really happen, but [tablets] are definitely something we should not ignore.”
Therefore, they wanted to target mobile devices with Albion Online.
But then it became clear: The core audience would play Albion Online on PC because it is a hardcore game. Looking at the mobile market today, Albion is not the right game for that market.
They do not want to be that either; they feel comfortable as a hardcore MMORPG.
Mobile today as a complement for PC players
This is how Albion Online sees mobile platforms today: Today, mobile platforms are seen as an important accessory for players who primarily play at home on PC. These are “secondary platforms.”
One reason why they are not in mobile stores yet is the question of the payment model. On PC, Albion Online has chosen a “Buy2Play” model. Apparently, they are uncertain whether that would also work on iOS and Android.
They are looking at the market and will decide then.
However, it does not sound like Albion Online is in a hurry to get into the shops. According to Salz, you can already play Albion Online on iOS and Android, and many are doing so.
Albion Online – Team has 30 people in Germany, is satisfied with it
How is it going with Albion Online? By the way, Salz does not seem to be talking about a crisis after the layoffs. In the interview, he seems satisfied that he has established a studio in Germany that generates enough revenue to pay 30 people.
Overwatch fans can soon replay matches in real life: Blizzard has announced the production of toy weapons in Overwatch style!
Bunny Blaster and Inferno Shotguns as Nerf Guns: Blizzard and toy manufacturer Hasbro have announced a collaboration. In 2019, both Reaper’s shotguns and D.Va’s light gun (commonly referred to as “Bunny Blaster”) are set to come out as toy versions for home use.
What are Nerf Guns? Nerf Guns are replicas of weapons that function with foam ammunition instead of real bullets. They are intended as children’s toys and usually shoot small foam darts that don’t actually hurt.
Nerf Guns are especially popular in America, where there are even competitions with them, similar to laser tag or clay pigeon shooting.
Overwatch as Nerf Rival Blaster: The Overwatch weapons from Hasbro come in the “Nerf Rival” variant, where the guns shoot small foam balls instead of darts. This makes the Rival weapons more comparable to airsoft.
The Rival series of Nerf targets a more adult market.
Considerable firepower: The two known Nerf guns from Overwatch have considerable power:
Bunny Blaster: Three shots at about 24 meters per second or 88 km/h.
Inferno shotguns: Eight shots at about 27 meters per second or 99 km/h.
At those speeds, even soft foam projectiles can hurt quite a bit, or become dangerous if they hit an eye. So the Overwatch weapons are not suitable as children’s toys, but surely perfect for a little RL shootout in the garden.
This is an AI-powered translation. Some inaccuracies might exist.
At the ChinaJoy 2018, 6 new MMORPGs and MMOs were showcased. However, they are all mobile games for the Chinese market. Ragnarok Online: Love at First Sight stands out, based on the popular IP “Ragnarok Online.” We have trailers for 6 new games from China.
ChinaJoy 2018 took place: Over the weekend, ChinaJoy 2018, the video game fair in China, took place. The highlight from a Western perspective was a Cinematic for WoW.
But there were also numerous new introductions of fresh MMOs and MMORPGs from China. However, these are mostly mobile games.
Why are they so into mobile? The Chinese market loves mobile. Gaming there, as in South Korea, has developed differently than in the West. Consoles like PS4 or Xbox One are hardly available, and for a long time, PC gaming dominated.
However, players did not have computers at home but at internet cafés, the PC bangs, as they are called in Korea. By now, though, everyone in China has a smartphone, and gaming has shifted from PC bangs into the hands of players.
New Mobile MMORPG Ragnarok Online: The Chinese giant Tencent announced numerous new mobile games at ChinaJoy, including “Ragnarok Online: Love at First Sight.”
The game is being developed in collaboration with Dream². The studio is also behind Ragnarok Online: Guardians of Eternal Love.
The new trailer for Ragnarok Online: Love At First Sight
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What can players expect from the new Ragnarok Online? As MMOCulture reports, players can expect a modern action RPG with a 3D perspective. It is supposed to offer classic features of Ragnarok Online like cities, class progression, costumes, and mounts.
As new systems, there will be:
changing weather
climbing
special encounters
20-player PvP
day/night cycle
What new MMOs and MMORPGs were also presented at ChinaJoy 2018?
We show you a selection of new games from ChinaJoy 2018 – each with the presentation trailer. We are following MMOCulture for this:
Project E – the new “flagship mobile MMO” from Tencent, is being developed on Unreal Engine 4 and is set to launch in 2019. “Project E” means “we don’t have a name yet and will think of one later.”
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Exotic market: Currently, it is still unclear to what extent we will see individual players here in Europe. Many games are also only developed for Asia and never make it to the West.
At least it provides an exotic insight into what is happening in the gaming market in China.
How does the new mode “Survival” play in FIFA 19? We were able to try out the game mode that has been speculated about a lot in advance.
Lots of rumors and “leaks”: In July and early August, the FIFA world turned a bit upside down. Several rumors and alleged leaks emerged, suggesting that a mode from FIFA Street would return in FIFA 19. A picture of a 5v5 mode circulated – which, however, turned out to be fake.
On August 4th, EA Sports lifted the curtain and revealed what was behind all the rumors: A survival mode called Survival.
What exactly is Survival now?
Survival is part of the new Kick-Off mode:The new Kick-Off in FIFA 19 includes several fun modes that you can play against the computer or against your friends. In Kick-Off, you will find the category “House Rules“, where you can select the Survival mode alongside other modes such as the “No Rules” mode.
What are the rules of Survival? Two teams of eleven players each compete against each other. With each goal, one player from the team that scored must leave the field. A maximum of four players from each team can leave the field per game. Additionally, no more than two red cards may be received.
Which player is sent off when a goal is scored? This is determined by chance. According to EA Sports, defenders and midfielders must primarily leave the field so you still have the offensive power to score more goals. The goalkeepers always stay in play.
In the top left corner of the screen, it is displayed who must leave the game:
The red cross indicates that a player from this team has been sent off
Survival is not FIFA Street, but resembles Last Man Standing a bit: In FIFA Street, there was a mode called “Last Man Standing”. In that mode, four players in two teams played against each other without a goalkeeper (in Survival, there are eleven players each). Each goalscorer had to leave the field, and the first person to have all their players on the sidelines emerged as the winner. Survival is somewhat reminiscent of this.
Who wins in Survival? Unlike Last Man Standing, you do not have to have all your players on the sidelines to win (after all, that’s not possible). Instead, the team that scores the most goals during the match wins.
Neither FIFA Street nor Battle Royale, but still a welcome change
When we at Mein-MMO learned about this mode, we wanted to find out more about it directly. At a preview event for FIFA 19, we then had the opportunity to try it out – and now we can provide you with our first impression.
Neither Battle Royale nor FIFA Street: Right from the start – even though in gaming year 2018 the “Battle Royale” genre seems omnipresent and I immediately had that term in my mind when I heard about Survival – Survival has too few similarities with Battle Royale to call the mode that. You don’t shoot down opponents; in essence, you weaken yourself with goals, nor is it about being the last person remaining.
A comparison with FIFA Street comes closer, but in Survival, there is no classic FIFA Street feeling. You’re not playing with four players on the street, but with eleven on the grass in the stadiums of FIFA 19.
Survival initially feels like a normal FIFA match. Only after the first two or three goals does it change. Because then you suddenly realize: Oops, where have all my players gone?
The match does not make a big fuss when a player is sent off after a goal. Only in the top left corner of the screen is it briefly displayed which player has left the field. If you are deeply involved in an animated conversation with your friends, you can easily overlook this information.
Is Survival for tactical geniuses? When you suddenly have only six outfield players plus a goalkeeper on the field after four goals, this has a significant impact on your game. You might want to avoid scoring many goals in the first half, as otherwise, you might be at a significant disadvantage in the second half and empower your opponent.
However – and here I see the great potential of Survival – these phases can be extremely fun and exciting. Especially when you play the mode with friends on the couch, it can create a lot of atmosphere – with the motto: “See, I can still beat you with only seven players!”
But primarily, Survival is a fun mode designed to bring some variety to the football simulation – and in my opinion, it can fulfill this claim.
As part of the ongoing Call of Duty: Black Ops 4 Beta, a piece of equipment is facing massive criticism. Players believe that the body armor is overpowered in its current state. Treyarch has acknowledged the issue and promises adjustments.
Private Beta started: On Friday, August 3, 2018, the first Private Beta weekend of Call of Duty: Black Ops 4 started – initially exclusively on the PS4. Fans have until 7 PM on August 6 to enjoy the traditional multiplayer mode of the latest Call of Duty installment and provide their feedback.
Debate over OP item: A certain item is currently facing massive criticism in this context. Numerous fans are complaining about the body armor, which many consider too powerful in its current state.
Body armor is not well received by beta participants
Extensive customization options: As in previous Call of Duty titles, players can customize their virtual soldier according to their play style with numerous options. This includes a wide variety of firearms, attachments, and perks.
One of these customization options is equipment. It essentially functions like perks and gives the character certain boosts or abilities that provide advantages in combat.
The problem with the body armor: Among the equipment is also Armor, meaning body armor. This provides the wearer with more health – without any downsides.
What testers particularly dislike is the resulting increase in Time to Kill. The wearer can absorb one to two additional body hits before they are eliminated. In fast shooters like Call of Duty, the impact is enormous.
Even though there is a counter with Armor Piercing Rounds against the armor, many players are concerned that this perk will become a necessity if they want to avoid constantly losing in direct duels against the majority of other players – similar to the issues experienced with Juggernaut and Stopping Power from older installments. This would limit the diversity of character builds.
The armor also has supporters: There are indeed players who defend the armor and justify its current state. In their eyes, it is a fair trade-off for having to give up other valuable and useful equipment, such as those that speed up healing or reduce cooldown times, by equipping the body armor.
However, supporters of Armor are noticeably in the minority when looking at forums or Reddit.
Developers want to adjust the armor: Treyarch apparently shares the same view as the majority of testers, who believe that Armor is overpowered. In a statement on Reddit, the developers have already indicated that they have heard the players’ feedback and are looking into the matter. Adjustments to the body armor are expected for the second beta weekend, which begins on August 10. However, no further details have been provided.
What do you think about the current state of the body armor? Should it be minimally adjusted or completely removed in your opinion? Or is all the criticism not really justified?
This is an AI-powered translation. Some inaccuracies might exist.
Our author Schuhmann looks at the “self-sufficient” in World of Warcraft. And finds: They are a special breed of people in MMORPGs. But how do the people who seem to be preparing for the end of WoW think? Completely different.
During my time in WoW, I met a self-sufficient player. I would like to introduce you to this very special type of player today.
What is a self-sufficient player in MMORPGs? A self-sufficient player is someone who feels it is a personal shame and defeat to have to buy anything from the auction house belonging to other players or to rely on anyone for a service.
His life goal is: To be able to craft everything he needs in WoW with one of his countless twinks. And “need” is meant in the broadest sense here: More like a “maybe I would like” or a “I might need one day” or a “I would like to have.”
What distinguishes the self-sufficient player? The player has all classes in WoW as twinks.
But even more importantly: He has all gathering professions and all crafting professions at maximum and specifically one character for each task. He also chases the most obscure recipes and items that may only be necessary for absolute niche needs.
A self-sufficient player who has run out of some obscure mid-level substance needed for an enchantment.
Are self-sufficient players power gamers? Yes, self-sufficient players spend a lot of time in World of Warcraft. But they play atypically. Unlike typical power gamers who tend to “play upwards” and want to equip a character as strong as possible with optimal gear, the self-sufficient players aim to cover everything horizontally, broadly. This is why they love twinks and crafting.
How do self-sufficient players think in WoW?
The typical behavior: To prove that he is a self-sufficient player, he is willing to go through great lengths. He sets off on tiresome farming tours in low-level areas without hesitation to collect low-level materials so that his 12th twink has optimal leveling gear should he ever play him again.
Of course, he could also go to the auction house and buy the materials for 3 silver, but … honor forbids that.
The best moment for a self-sufficient player: The hour of the self-sufficient player strikes when someone in the guild has an absurd request and is looking for an obscure crafting recipe at level 43 – preferably one that hasn’t been relevant for 8 years. Then the self-sufficient player kindly says: “My twink can do that!”
This kind of twink is still useful – if necessary as a storage character
Are self-sufficient players preparing for the end of WoW?
I have thought for a long time about what lies behind this mania. At first, I thought it was concern: If WoW ever dies and there isn’t a single blacksmith left on the server or an alchemist, then the hour of the self-sufficient player will strike.
Just as a “prepper” prepares for the apocalypse or a zombie apocalypse by stockpiling supplies, the self-sufficient player can continue playing when a decent life is no longer possible in an MMORPG.
Helping without needing help
That’s what I thought at first: But there’s more to it. It’s the desire to help others, while not needing help oneself.
It’s a certain attitude with which one moves through World of Warcraft: One wants to be independent, a lone wolf. But one also wants to be seen as the type who helps others and to whom others can come when they need help.
Self-imposed XXL goal
Players want goals: It’s simply a goal with which one can wonderfully pass the time.
Ultimately, it is pointless to prepare for the downfall of WoW, but the time passes so beautifully when trying to make every last twink into a “useful character.”
And then with the next expansion, one has so much to do again when trying to reach maximum in every profession to master all new recipes.
Even though WoW has brought “achievements” over time, the matter of the “self-sufficient player” is a goal that players set for themselves. Often it is these self-sufficient players that become important pillars of every community or guild, even though they don’t actually need them.
One of the most memorable groups from The Division are the Cleaners. What is this faction all about that roams New York with flamethrowers and gas grenades?
We have all the information about the Cleaners and their leader, Joe Ferro, for you.
The Cleaners before the Green Poison
Unlike, for example, the Last Man Battalion, the Cleaners were not an already existing group before the green poison broke out.
Only when the virus plunged Manhattan into chaos did a faction form from various professions such as
disposal workers
janitors
security personnel
electricians
bus drivers
other everyday jobs in public order
They all lived a normal life with their families until the outbreak and worked on the streets of New York.
Joe Ferro – Tragic figure, or ruthless mass murderer?
Who is Joe Ferro? One person who will play an important role is Joe Ferro. He lived with his wife in Manhattan and was a sanitation worker. His family was very important to him, especially his niece, whose name is unknown to us.
In a recording of a phone call, Ferro contacts her during the outbreak. Whether she is still alive is unknown.
Ferro was a political person and could often be heard on the radio as a caller. There, he spoke about his opinion on the American public before the catastrophe. But then the outbreak came.
Ferro’s psyche suffers from the death of his wife: Ferro’s wife was likely among the first infected by the Green Poison. Shortly after the infection, she died. Her death was a harsh blow for him and made him unstable, almost fanatical.
The events surrounding the outbreak cause unrest. In the early days of the downfall, he responded in a radio show to the question of how he viewed the Dollar Flu:
I believe it only shows how vulnerable this country is. […] No one has enough guts – neither the government nor anyone else – to do what is necessary to stop the plague from spreading further.
Thus, Ferro develops his own idea of how to stop the catastrophe.
“Burn it all!” – The despair of the people leads to the emergence of the Cleaners
“Burn it out. ALL of it. EVERY trace of it”: Ferro sees the answer in a brutal solution, which for him seems to be the logical conclusion. The government was incapacitated, only he knew what to do: Everything and everyone must be burned to defeat the disease.
Ferro on the brink of madness: He is driven by the death of his wife. Joe witnessed firsthand what the green poison could do and likely thought that this was the only way to stop the disease.
Therefore, he gathered men and women who had also lost people. These individuals, mainly from occupations related to public order and with similar mindsets, wanted to eradicate the Dollar Flu at all costs. The sick were already considered lost and had to be burned. Only in this way could the old order be restored.
The Cleaners – For Ferro, the true heroes of the crisis
Heroes or lunatics? Joe Ferro sees himself and his faction as the only ones doing what needs to be done to save the city. He often emphasizes how proud he is of himself and his people. They left everything behind to maintain order. This is also mentioned in the Cleaners’ report No. 8:
That’s why we stand here today, without our families, without our children. Because we understand what it will cost to save this city and this country, and we are willing to pay the price. […] If you ask me, they are all heroes.
A loyal following: His followers were convinced by Ferro’s views and admired him for going out into the streets and getting his “hands dirty.”
Fire as a means against the Dollar Flu
Fire against the plague: To stop the green poison, it must be burned. This conviction was shared by Ferro and the Cleaners. So they equipped themselves with
their typical weapon, the AK47 modified with a flamethrower
toxic gas grenades
protective suits
vehicles
tank trucks
Anyone who stood in their way was burned, as that person opposed the healing of the disease. The Cleaners roamed from neighborhood to neighborhood, burning everyone who showed even the slightest sign of the disease.
But they are not doctors. Red eyes and other “symptoms” could have many causes, such as cold, but for the Cleaners, this was too high a risk. They played it safe and killed anyone they believed showed signs of the green poison.
The conflicts between the Division and the Cleaners
One of the first encounters underground: The Cleaners are the first well-organized faction we encounter at the beginning of the game. In the mission “Subway Morgue,” the Cleaners confront the Division while they try to rescue JTF engineer Paul Rhodes.
Not a very pleasant sight: The area that the Cleaners, under the leadership of Cleaner leader Benchley, have seized underground was used as a morgue. Hundreds of body bags were sorted in dozens of rows.
Eventually, the Division frees Rhodes, and he restores power to the operations base.
Attack on the Hudson refugee camp
The Cleaner mechanic Martinez launched the next attack on the Hudson refugee camp, with the order to burn anyone showing signs of an infection there.
The Broadway department store was identified as an important location: The Division, together with the JTF, managed to stop the Cleaners and even obtain crucial data about the green poison. This allowed them to locate one of the main sources of the green poison.
The Broadway department store
In the department store against the Cleaners: Residues of the Dollar Flu were found in a cash register in Abel’s department store by the Division. However, they were not the only ones moving around in the department store.
A Cleaner squad, led by a waste burner named Kosinski, was also there, unaware that one of the sources of the virus was located in this department store. They were defeated by the Division, and the department store burned down.
The encounter with Joe Ferro
Ferro’s end: The JTF eventually discovered that the Cleaners were producing napalm on a large scale in a factory. This was also the base of the Cleaners, and Ferro had to be on site as well. The Division then infiltrated the site, destroyed the napalm supplies, and killed Ferro.
This was a brutal blow to the Cleaners. Without their leader, who made them believe in something, they were very weakened and began to splinter into smaller groups.
Amherst’s Apartment
Further Cleaner groups: Nevertheless, there were still enough followers trying to burn out the virus.
While the Division had localized the source of the virus in Amherst’s apartment, the Cleaners were already on site. They hoped to catch more infected people. In a skirmish, the Cleaners, led by Rogan, were defeated by the Division, and the apartment was examined by the Division along with virus data.
The battle with the Four Horsemen in the Dragon’s Lair
Horsemen of the Apocalypse: Lastly, the Cleaners built a massive weapon in the form of a fire truck named “Dragon”. This was to be completed in the Dragon’s Lair.
Equipped with several deadly flame guns, it was supposed to be able to “combat the disease” even more effectively and broadly, or simply incinerate more civilians. This weapon was guarded by the four deadly horsemen.
Four waste burners, very large Cleaners, all named after one of the four apocalyptic horsemen: “Death, Hunger, War, and Pestilence”. But even this facility could be conquered by the Division, and the fire truck was destroyed.
Currently, it is unknown who leads the Cleaners. Recently, they have been collaborating with the Westside Piers and the other factions, the Rikers and the Last Man Battalion. Apparently, there is still a leadership that can negotiate such alliances.
So even without Joe Ferro, there are enough devoted followers who want to continue his work.
In this video from NGN Network, the story of the Cleaners is summarized.
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Desperation drives people to violent reactions: The Cleaners are one of the most interesting factions with complex motives. Many of them are simply people who cannot cope with their losses. Out of desperation, they are convinced that burning the sick is the only way out.
Organized chaos? Whether all of them are truly insane is hard to say. Because the Cleaners are still very well organized and have developed near military potential. Therefore, it can be assumed that there are also members within this faction who are primarily interested in power. Unfortunately, there wasn’t enough material to draw conclusions on this.
Joe Ferro is the tragic embodiment of the Cleaners: Ferro was consumed by grief, anger towards the government, and the urge to save everyone and restore order. Ultimately, this cost him his life.
What do you think about the Cleaners? Which characters, factions, or stories would you like to read about next?
Do you have any exotic catalyst masterpieces that you need to level up in Destiny 2? Then you should take a closer look at this location.
Improving exotic weapons can be tedious: In Destiny 2, numerous exotic weapons can be turned into masterpieces with the help of corresponding catalysts and thus significantly improved.
Obtaining the exotic catalysts is not always easy. Many of them drop very rarely. And once you finally get them, the real work begins. Because now you have to level the catalyst, which can require thousands of enemy kills.
Another good location for leveling catalysts: There are already numerous popular areas in PvE where kills are easier to collect than usual. Another spot has now been identified where large numbers of enemies can be encountered in a short time. Virtually all masterpiece catalysts for kinetic and special weapons that require enemy kills to level up can be easily leveled solo here – provided you have the jumping skills.
Make your way easier to many masterpieces – Here’s how
The start: The farming spot is best accessed through the heroic version of the Whisper mission on IO, where you can also grab the catalyst for the new exotic sniper rifle Whisper of the Worm. While it is also possible to reach this location in the regular Whisper mission, the start of the mission itself is tied to the Taken event, which can lead to very long wait times.
If you have already completed Whisper on normal, the heroic version is available unrestricted and directly from the planet map between Friday 7:00 PM and the following Monday 7:00 PM. Therefore, it is advisable to start the Whisper mission in heroic mode as the first step.
With jumping skills to the farm spot: Then proceed through the initial jumping passage to the large bright hall, where you must decide between the shortcut and the regular path of the mission. There, you drop through a gap in the floor and land in a room where many Taken thralls rush towards you.
These spawn constantly and infinitely, ensuring a steady flow of weak red-bar enemies. Here, pretty much all masterpiece catalysts for kinetic and special weapons that require enemy kills can be leveled easily and quickly.
Even if you take a bit longer to jump, you can rack up tons of kills with about 10 minutes of remaining time and significantly advance the progress of the corresponding catalysts.
Unfortunately, there is not enough ammo supply here for catalysts of power weapons.
The way and the location in the video: As a visual guide, you can refer to this video. It illustrates in detail how to get to the right place.
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FIFA 19 is getting a completely new Kick-Off mode. This includes various modes, among them with House Rules, a variation of the Lounge mode from FIFA 11.
The new Kick-Off mode features the so-called “House Rules.” This is a less realistic but much more fun mode for couch gaming. Many players think of the popular Lounge mode from FIFA 11.
What are the House Rules?
You can start a normal match against a friend on the same console in this new mode. However, you have the option to set one of five rules. These are:
Long Range: Goals outside the penalty area count double.
Survival: This mode is inspired by FIFA Street: If you score a goal, you lose a player!
Headers & Volleys: Only headers, volleys, free kicks, and penalties count here.
First to: You set a number of goals; whoever scores this first wins the match.
No rules: There is no offside, no fouls, and no cards.
Fans excited to remember the Lounge mode
The leak of the House Rules on Reddit generated excitement a few days ago. Many players still remember the Lounge mode from FIFA 11.
Sounds like a mix on the “lounge mode” that existed a few FIFAs ago. That mode used to be a blast, hopefully this one comes close. Source: Reddit, User: OhKillEm43
This is how the Lounge mode worked: Especially the ability to actively harm friends – and in this case, opponents – with cards or other penalties was very popular. Additionally, the progress was continuously saved. This led to significantly increased long-term motivation compared to the Kick-Off mode we know from recent years in FIFA.
Also, within your lounge that you created with your friends, you could earn badges for being the first to master various tasks. These include, for example, “Hat Trick Hero” or “Stamina King.”
Oh my god, lounge mode was some of the most fun we’ve ever experienced in FIFA. Everyone hoarded cards for when they played the leader and stuck him with ‘everyone on yellow cards’, ‘everyone on red stamina’ cards only to watch the poor bastard try in vain to win the game was some of the most evil fun we experienced. Lounge mode tested our friendship and we came out the better for it. Source: Reddit, User: StathamIsYourSavior
The question of FIFA Street also naturally came up. The mode that focuses on tricks and small field games is desired back by many players year after year.
Any chance this will include FIFA street style 5vs5? Source: Reddit, same thread as above
What do we get? Lounge mode or FIFA Street?
On August 4th, the House Rules were officially introduced. Have the fans gotten their hopes up too early, or will they receive a successful variation of the Lounge mode?
House Rules has a crucial weakness: Yes, the new Kick-Off mode brings back altered football rules. The match data will also be saved again, thereby increasing long-term motivation. This makes couch gaming much more diverse again. However, what is missing compared to FIFA 11 is the ability to harm your opponent.
As mentioned in the Reddit post, the appeal of the Lounge mode was mainly about annoying and harming your friends. That this is not unusual can be observed, for example, in Mario Kart: It still is the most fun to throw a blue shell at your buddy right before the finish line. Whether the new House Rules in FIFA 19 will evoke that feeling again is questionable.
No FIFA Street, but a step closer. A FIFA Street mode is not included in the House Rules. We also miss the “5 against 5” again. However, we at least get the Survival mode, a variation of the “Last Man Standing” mode from FIFA Street. Fans of the trickster mode may not be satisfied, but it is a step in the right direction.
In Fortnite, the challenges for Week 5 are now known. Players will have to play golf and dive through rifts to progress in the Battle Pass.
Dataminers now reliable: The dataminers (via FNBRLeaks) can currently predict with high accuracy what challenges will become active on Thursday at 3 PM. While it’s not always certain, they have been correct in recent weeks.
And the challenges for Week 5 in Season 5 also look plausible.
Update 9.8. 15:10: The official list of challenges is here. It differs somewhat from the leak.
These are the tasks that can also be completed without a Battle Pass in Week 5
Search 7 chests in Junk Junction – This does not need to be completed in one round; players can nibble at the task little by little until it’s done: always open one or two chests per round. Starting Thursday, many treasure hunters will be found in Junk Junction.
Use 3 rift portals – The rifts are a novelty with Season 5. Anyone who slips through a rift will be teleported into the air and jumps off again. These rifts can mostly be found a little outside of the cities.
Eliminate 3 opponents – This challenge has no additional conditions. Even players who don’t collect many kills should be able to complete it over time. If the task proves difficult, it’s advisable to go into one of the special modes, where there is more chaos than in solo mode.
These are the 4 tasks in Week 5 of Fortnite, for which you need the Battle Pass
Deal 300 damage to players with the stink bomb, grenade, or sticky grenade – Here, the player becomes a grenadier. This will require some practice; maybe the squad mode suits this task particularly well. Players are closer together there.
Sink 5 golf balls in different holes – This is the task for which there will surely be a guide starting Thursday. You must reach level 27 in Fortnite to obtain the emote that lets you swing the pickaxe like a golf club. However, it may also be the case that you can sink the ball without this emote counting for the task. There are already 9 golf holes in Fortnite – this will be interesting.
Follow the treasure map in Greasy Grove – This is a standard task. On Thursday at 3 PM, we will publish a guide here on Mein-MMO about how this challenge works and where you can find the Battle Star.
Eliminate 3 opponents in Shift Shafts – Standard fare like every week, just with a different location
If you still have tasks from the previous weeks pending, here are the tips on how to crack them:
Symmetra is one of the original heroes from Overwatch. By now, the Indian has even been reworked from a healer to a DPS hero. However, this has only moderately contributed to an image change: Even now, Symmetra players still have to hear that they are playing with a noob hero.
The Symmetra Controversy: The reworked Symmetra has been playable in the Overwatch rankings since July 10. Opinions about her have been divided since then – some players, however, complain that she is still not recognized.
Players complain about hate: Before Symmetra got a rework, she was considered a “noob hero” and a “troll pick”. Her automatic targeting and the turrets allowed her to get easy kills without requiring much skill, but she was also very easy to counter.
Some Symmetra mains have spoken out since her rework (via Kotaku). Despite her completely new abilities and the new role she apparently fulfills well, they are still insulted or not recognized as DPS players. Some players even report that they were told to kill themselves for their main hero.
Nothing has changed: Such things have also happened before she was reworked. Symmetra mains have been reported just for playing Symmetra, leading to bans.
Blizzard actually wanted to prevent such things, but apparently it hasn’t worked.
Some players even criticize Blizzard itself. By reworking Symmetra, they have clearly told former players that there is no place for such a playstyle and thus for them in Overwatch.
There is also positive feedback: However, not all reactions from other players to the new Symmetra and her mains are negative. With the new abilities she has been equipped with, she can finally have a real impact on a game.
There is even more or more recognition for the playstyle – albeit with an undertone of frustration that a Symmetra player is so good.
Whether the impression of Symmetra players is really accurate cannot be definitively confirmed. In the forums, there are hardly any or no posts about alleged harassment just for being a Symmetra player. Complaints from Symmetra players are rare in the forums.
Here, the discussion is more about whether her new abilities are good enough and how to use them most effectively. There are even outliers that label Symmetra as too strong, while most voices find her “okay” by now.
Have you already played with or against the new Symmetra? Do you encounter more hate or more respect in dealing with her? Share your experiences in the comments!
