Blizzard still has some plans for Hearthstone. Some of these could lead to two popular cards being banned to the Hall of Fame.
The release of “The Journey to Un’Goro” was a while ago, but what is the current status of the developers? Are they satisfied with the game? And which cards might soon disappear from the game? The colleagues at PCGamer conducted an interview with Ben Brode.
If a card is particularly prominent and part of the Standard or Classic set, then Blizzard considers whether that card should go to the “Hall of Fame”. Cards of this selection can no longer be used in Standard mode and can only be played in Wild.
When asked which cards Brode would ban to the Hall of Fame next, he named two long-term favorites: Alexstrasza and the Goblin Auctioneer.
Alexstrasza would be missed, as Freeze Mages and some Warriors have relied on the Life Dragon Lady for a long time, who ironically usually takes health from the opponent. Several archetypes completely depend on her, and she would create a hole in existing decks – but might also open new possibilities.
Particularly Rogues have sworn by the Goblin Auctioneer for ages, and he is used in almost every deck – for more than 3 years. That’s why he is a potential candidate for retirement.
In general, the developers of Hearthstone are currently very satisfied. The meta could be “the best ever”, as almost all classes are represented with many decks. Only the Warlock is somewhat underrepresented in tournaments. But that could still change.
Hearthstone with Stress Factor – is the “Speed” variant coming soon?
Another topic that came up during the interview was the question of a Speed Hearthstone. So quick matches where the “fuse” – that is, the time limit – is constantly running. Each player would only have 15 to 20 seconds for their turn. When asked if they would eventually implement the mode, Brode gave a clear “Yes”. However, it could only be a card chaos – unfortunately, no details were provided.
The full interview in the original English can be found in our sources.
How satisfied are you currently with Hearthstone? Do you still like it? Or are you already waiting for the next expansion?
What platforms will the new MMO shooter Anthem be released on?
Anthem played an important role at Microsoft’s press conference. The spotlight at the end of the presentation belonged to the shooter from BioWare. The presentation mainly focused on the Xbox One and its new version, the Xbox One X. The word “Exclusive” was constantly thrown around and loudly proclaimed.
Players are wondering: Is the new game Anthem perhaps exclusive? Is Anthem coming only for the Xbox One?
The answer is a clear “No.”
Anthem will be available for PlayStation 4, Xbox One, and PC
As Electronic Arts announced after the press conference, Anthem will also be released for PlayStation 4 (PS4) and Windows PC. So, Anthem is not just available on the Xbox One. A release is scheduled for Fall 2018.
All important details from the presentation can be found in this article:
The gameplay reveal of Anthem (PS4, Xbox One, PC), the new game from BioWare, was the highlight of Microsoft’s E3 press conference. We have all the information from the gameplay reveal and the video itself for you. Anthem is a coop third-person shooter. The game is also described as a “Shared World RPG”.
After midnight, there was finally the long-awaited gameplay footage of Anthem, the new “semi-MMO” from BioWare. This was previously known as “Project Dylan”. BioWare Edmonton has reportedly been working on the game for 4 years. A release is planned for fall 2018.
Anthem is a “Shared-World Action RPG”, just like Destiny
New information:
The players themselves are “Freelancers”, a type of mercenary who can take on missions
There is a kind of “Social Hub”, a desert town, a kind of bazaar that serves as an operations base
Officially, Anthem is a “Shared-World Action RPG” – Shared World is the publisher slang for “We have many MMO elements but don’t want our customers to think of World of Warcraft.” The term was established by Destiny, with which Anthem will be compared approximately 8 million times in the next 12 hours.
Anthem puts you in exo-suits – which means free class choice
Players will be able to slip into “exo-suits”. They are called “Javeline Exosuits”. These are mech combat suits. Players are not limited to a single suit. This basically means that players can switch classes. It is said that each of the combat suits has unique abilities and weapons. Players can customize them with items they find or craft themselves. There is also a crafting system.
Two combat suits were briefly introduced: The Ranger is balanced, the Colossus is a tank.
The gameplay is that of a third-person shooter.
Quests will be displayed in the upper right corner
Anthem: Loot and EXP are also available
It features a rather minimalist interface, the crosshair seems to be located a bit below the center of the screen
Of course, there is loot and exp – one could see a “legendary weapon.” Initial stats include damage, accuracy, range, rate of fire, and ammunition.
Dynamically triggered events are planned. There will be world-changing events like “Shaper Storms.” You fight against wild beasts and ruthless raiders.
Anthem, the game where everyone is Iron Man
Players move around the world using their suits, and they can perform jet-boot-assisted jumps. Everything looked quite lively. You can even go underwater. The movement resembles Iron Man.
The group size is as expected 4
The world has something primal-rough with a slight tendency towards gigantomania – there were huge beings that wore some kind of armor. It seems that the world is highly technological but overgrown.
The game is presented as a “coop”. Players casually talk, even about real-life things in a group – it’s a clear sign that Anthem is targeting an audience that also plays games like Destiny or The Division: “Shooting aliens in the face while chatting with your friends.”
It is unknown if the game will feature PvP.
Gameplay reveal trailer for Anthem from E3
You can watch the complete gameplay reveal trailer for Anthem here. You might discover some things that have escaped us.
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In our opinion, Anthem was the most exciting title presented by Microsoft – and that means a lot. Because there were a whole lot in the 100-minute presentation at E3.
Get ready for the treasure hunt – Sea of Thieves is coming in early 2018. In the gameplay video, you can see what puzzles and enemies await you.
The action-adventure Sea of Thieves is a multiplayer title that will present unique puzzles to you and your friends. In multiplayer mode, you must follow treasure maps, dig up chests, and then safely bring them back to your ship. Sneaky enemies, however, will not give up their treasures without a fight.
In the gameplay walkthrough video of Sea of Thieves, you can see what these adventures might look like:
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During Microsoft’s press conference at E3 2017, the gameplay for the pirate game Sea of Thieves was shown. In multiplayer, you must work with other players to recover many treasures and not be killed by the dangerous sea creatures.
Back on land, you can explore mysterious caves and search for more valuable loot. Those who find the loot must defend it against the pesky skeleton fighters that also await you on the beach.
As the trailer reveals, the game is set to be released in early 2018. Players who participate in the Insider Program have a chance to take part in the technical alpha version. More information can be found on the official website. Here is the link to the Sea of Thieves Insider program at seaofthieves.com (website currently not accessible)
The fantasy MMORPG Black Desert will first come to Xbox One. The release date is now at least roughly known.
As announced at the Microsoft press conference, the MMORPG Black Desert will debut on Xbox One.
Release date for Black Desert on Xbox One
This is expected to happen in early 2018. Then the release date for Black Desert should be announced. The title is expected to be “Console Launch Exclusive”.
It will probably come to PS4 later.
Here is the Black Desert E3 trailer
The surprising announcement of Black Desert is part of a “Exclusive” offensive by Microsoft during the introduction of their new console Xbox One X.
Here you can see the impressive launch trailer:
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It has been known for some time that the graphically extraordinary MMORPG Black Desert is making a port to PS4 and Xbox One. However, no details were known until today. Apparently, they were saving this for today.
Black Desert: Looks great, great combat system – weaknesses in the story
Black Desert not only looks really good, but also has an excellent combat system and an outstanding movement system. You run, sprint, and climb in a “parkour-style” through the beautifully drawn world.
Black Desert also has inner values. The way you interact with the world is excellent: Crafting, housing, and trading play a significant role.
However, fans of story and quests should not expect too much from the MMORPG – the quests are mainly designed to familiarize players with the gameplay mechanics. Leveling works through grinding or by engaging in trading and crafting items.
Black Desert – Buy2Play MMORPG is coming to Xbox One, could compete with ESO
Black Desert is still a relatively “young MMORPG” – currently, Pearl Abyss is developing further classes and PvE content in Korea. Black Desert still lacks those. A port to PlayStation 4 could open up entirely new possibilities and player bases for the MMORPG.
With the great combat system and probably the best graphics in the genre, the Xbox One has an excellent newcomer in the MMORPG sector, which should compete with the existing giant The Elder Scrolls Online.
Black Desert relies on a Buy2Play system. The game must be purchased, while additional game content is free. So far, some updates have been released that could very well qualify as DLCs. Costumes can be purchased in a cash shop.
The battle royale shooter “PlayerUnknown’s Battlegrounds” has become a massive hit in recent weeks. The game recently set a record with over 200,000 players simultaneously playing.
During the E3 event, it was announced that PUBG will first be “Launch exclusive” for Xbox One. This is expected to happen sometime at the end of 2017.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m0Tnp-3W3z4
PUBG Release first for Xbox One
Players can look forward to PlayerUnknown’s Battlegrounds on consoles later this year. During E3, it was announced that the title will be “Launch exclusive” for Xbox One in 2017. Based on these words, it can be inferred that there will also be a PlayStation 4 release, just later.
During the Microsoft press conference, it was also revealed that PUBG has now reached the milestone of 3 million players.
Assassin’s Creed Origins has received a reveal trailer. Additionally, the release date is known.
During Microsoft’s E3 press conference, Assassin’s Creed Origins was officially revealed for the first time.
In short: the numerous leaks beforehand are now confirmed. It takes place in ancient Egypt, where you can stealthily eliminate enemies as an assassin in an open world.
The game will be released on October 27.
Here is the reveal trailer:
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You are Bayek, who rises against the evil forces in Egypt with his assassin brotherhood. You will explore the great pyramids, uncover forgotten secrets, and follow hieroglyphs.
In addition to this trailer, a gameplay trailer was shown, where you get to see new weapons, the new combat system, and an eagle flight. It is alpha gameplay.
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The protagonist must find and defeat Medunamun. To do this, he uses the eagle, through whose eyes he can see to scout the area. There will be the typical “Assassin’s Creed” climbing and jumping sequences. Bayek uses a bow and arrow in the trailer, hides in the grass, and stealthily defeats enemies from behind. Additionally, a shield and a sickle-shaped weapon are seen in action.
These are the features that Ubisoft presents:
Discover mysteries in ancient Egypt: Explore tombs, the pyramids, and solve the secrets of mummies, gods, and the last pharaohs.
A new story: Bayek is the protector of Egypt, whose personal story leads to the founding of the Assassin Brotherhood.
Action RPG: Assassin’s Creed Origins is said to have a completely new combat system, where you will play with weapons that have different characteristics and rarities. There will be a deep RPG progression system where you can choose your preferred abilities.
Numerous quests, each featuring an intense story with expressive characters and significant objectives.
Explore a colorful world: From deserts to lush oases, from the sea to forgotten tombs – it promises to be a “gigantic and unpredictable” world where you fight against dangerous factions and wild beasts.
Assassin’s Creed Origins will have a live service approach. What this will look like specifically is not yet known. We will likely learn more at Ubisoft’s press conference.
This is an AI-powered translation. Some inaccuracies might exist.
The Xbox Scorpio, now known as Xbox One X, has a release date! The price is also known. This is the cost of the Xbox One X.
The Microsoft press conference for E3 2017 started directly with a trailer for the upcoming Xbox console: The Xbox One X. The focus is the 4k experience that the console will offer:
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What was previously known as Project Scorpio is now called Xbox One X.
The release date is November 7, 2017. The release is worldwide.
The price is $499. This will likely also be 499 Euros.
In the stream, it was promoted as the strongest console ever. The motto is “No Power greater than X”.
The Xbox One X delivers true 4K. Microsoft emphasizes that maximum power and efficiency have been focused on. There is also “optimized power management”.
The Xbox One X is backward compatible. All Xbox One games run on it and even have shorter loading times. It also improves the picture on non-4k TVs.
Furthermore: The Xbox One X is the smallest Xbox console ever!
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Xbox One X – Specs and Technical Data
Already in April, the built-in technology was published via DigitalFoundry. These components are inside the Xbox One X:
Processor – CPU: 8×86 cores with 2.3 GHz
Graphics Chip – GPU: 40 compute units with a total of 2560 processing units, operating at 1172 MHz (Over 6 teraflops)
RAM – Memory: 12 GB GDDR5 RAM with a memory bandwidth of 326 GB/s
Modern heat sink for the graphics unit
Hard Drive: 1 terabyte at 2.5 inches
Drive: 4K UHD Blu-ray
Integrated Power Supply
The same connections as on the Xbox One S
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The biggest innovation regarding the Xbox One X concerns the GPU. The Xbox One has 12 cores with 64 processing units each, while the Xbox One X has 40. For comparison: The PS4 Pro has 36 compute units. The advantage for gamers: A smooth, detailed, and high-resolution representation of 4K games – provided the games allow it.
What do you think about the information regarding the Xbox One X?
Here you will find our provisional console comparison:
In ARK: Survival Evolved there is a new patch 1.24 for PS4. Xbox players have already received the update. Expect the patch for PS4 on Monday if all goes well. 1.24 could be quite large.
There is a new patch on PS4 and Xbox One in Ark Survival Evolved that brings the consoles up to the PC version v258. The Xbox One received the patch on June 9. The patch size was 34GB. Now the PS4 is expected to follow – Sony took longer for certification than Microsoft.
Ark PS4 Update 1.24 – ETA June 12 – What’s in the Patch
The patch is packed with new content, including:
New dinos – Hyaenodon, Hesperornis, Megatherium, Megalania, Yutyrannus
Per-Pixel Painting: This also applies to war paint of survivors and dinos
The June 12 is an ETA, an estimated time of arrival. The patch 1.24 will only come to PS4 tomorrow if everything goes smoothly during the certification process.
Alex Hunter’s story mode receives a continuation in FIFA 18. Here’s what to expect in “The Journey: Hunter Returns”.
At E3 2017, alongside the gameplay trailer for FIFA 18, a teaser video for the second part of “The Journey” was presented. The Journey is the story mode of the FIFA series, which was introduced in FIFA 17 and now receives a continuation: “The Journey: Hunter Returns”.
Here is the trailer:
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In The Journey, you step into the shoes of the young football talent Alex Hunter. Together with your friend Gareth Walker, you are at the beginning of your professional career in the Premier League. The story unfolds not only on the pitch but also at the training ground, in the office, at Alex’s home, or in the locker room. An important character is your grandfather Jim Hunter, who was a successful footballer himself and provides you with guidance.
The story mode spans a season, and you will determine through your performances on the virtual pitch whether your club will win titles in the end. In FIFA 18, the second season for Alex Hunter begins.
Alex Hunter – the new star
What can we expect in The Journey: Hunter Returns?
EA Sports sets the scene for the beginning of The Journey: Hunter Returns:
After a sensational debut season in the Premier League, Alex Hunter is the talk of the world. Now he is facing his second season. And a transfer seems to be on the horizon…
The trailer embedded above raises the question of whether Alex Hunter will stay with his club or if he will be drawn to a new league. Apparently, he takes to the international stage in FIFA 18.
However, the action does not kick off directly with the league start. According to EA, Alex first heads into a summer break in Brazil and then to a pre-season tour in Los Angeles. You will experience the life of a professional footballer in all its facets.
Fans can look forward to a top cast in The Journey: Hunter Returns. Cristiano Ronaldo and several other footballers will make appearances in the story mode. In the story mode of FIFA 17, managers from the Premier League and top players like Marco Reus or Ángel Di María appeared briefly.
More info:
Alex’s grand goal is supposed to be Real Madrid.
The Journey will span six chapters in which Alex Hunter will be sent around the world.
Returning characters like his mother, grandfather, or manager Michael Taylor will be back. There will also be new characters. A woman is seen in the trailer – possibly Alex’s girlfriend?
Other characters besides Alex Hunter are expected to be playable.
You will be able to customize Alex’s hairstyle and outfit.
In dialogues, there will again be different response options. These are expected to have a stronger impact on the story progression in FIFA 18 than before.
Local multiplayer matches can be played with a friend in co-op mode.
The online shooter Star Wars Battlefront 2 seems to have learned from the weaknesses of its predecessor. With a class system and performance-based power-ups, Battlefront aims to improve everything.
On Friday evening, the first players had the opportunity to grasp the lightsabers and blasters of Star Wars Battlefront 2. The multiplayer was available for a test play. Those who watched from the outside, after enjoying the trailer, mainly registered the pretty graphics and chaotic firefights that reminded them of a Battlefield.
Hands-on reports for Star Wars Battlefront 2 sound positive
The game reports from journalists who were really hands-on sound quite positive. For example, PC Gamer praises that the lasers felt pleasantly gritty, had a certain weight and rhythm.
They felt like futuristic retro weapons. The lasers didn’t go “Pew Pew,” but “Boosh Boosh.”
The gameplay of Star Wars Battlefront 2 in multiplayer now resembles a Battlefield game more strongly, a strategic, chaotic push and pull between two massive teams.
Star Wars Battlefront 2: The Classes – Everyone has their role
The class system of Battlefront 2 encourages players to work together and fulfill their roles:
The Assault class is designed to push the front forward with automatic rifles and shotguns.
The Heavy class needs some time to get into position but then unleashes full destructive power; however, the weapon overheats quickly. The Heavy is more suited for precise pushes rather than holding a position permanently.
The Officer is a rather passive support class that strengthens the defense of allies through a kind of aura. Additionally, a turret can be deployed. So, it sounds more like a defensive class.
The Specialist is essentially the sniper, equipped with long-range weapons and traps. This one is more for the lone wolves among Star Wars Battlefront players.
To be Darth Maul, you have to earn it
Much praise goes to the new “Battlepoint” system. In Battlefront 1, it was still relatively random who received which power-ups by simply walking over icons. In Star Wars Battlefront 2, players collect points for practically everything within a match and can then convert them into special abilities and power-ups.
Heroes like Boba Fett or Darth Maul cost about 5,000 points. An AAT costs only 2,000.
Battlefront has also learned from the mistakes of its predecessor regarding the DLCs. EA plans to offer these for free for the sequel:
Studio Wildcard announced that the price of ARK: Survival Evolved will be increased. A new price will be set for all platforms: PC, PS4, and Xbox One. The price changes will be revealed at E3.
Ark Survival Evolved will receive a new price on all platforms: PC, PS4, and Xbox One. The reasons for the price increase are currently unknown. Studio Wildcard will disclose this information tomorrow, on June 12, at E3.
Ark: Price for PS4 & Xbox will increase on Monday – PC on July 7
Ark Survival Evolved will become more expensive on PS4 and Xbox tomorrow, June 12. The price increase for PC is set for July 7, a month later. Tomorrow, Studio Wildcard will hold a live stream at E3. Here, Ark’s co-founder Jesse Rapczak will explain the reasons for the increased price. The stream will be part of the “Twitch E3 Day Zero Show.”
Is the price increase a preparation for the full release?
Studio Wildcard is currently preparing for the full release of Ark Survival Evolved. The first endgame content has already been brought to the dino MMO. Currently, Ark on PC and Xbox One is still in Early Access – the status of ARK on PS4 is unclear, as Sony generally does not allow “Early Access” games on their platform, but ARK is still waiting for a full release on PS4.
Studio Wildcard states that Ark will be completed “soon” and “in the near future.” An exact date is not yet known.
The price increase of the survival MMO may serve to prepare for the full release. We will learn more about it tomorrow in the E3 stream.
Those who still have Ark on their wishlist can only get the dino MMO at a lower price for a short time.
The AR technology will change in Pokémon GO. Niantic plans a playground mode that allows you to display your monsters in the environment.
With the augmented reality feature of Pokémon GO, you could previously only catch the wild Pokémon in your environment. With the enhanced technology currently being tested in iOS 11, the AR experience in the game will become even more intense.
In the future, with a Pokémon playground mode, you will be able to see your captured monsters in the environment, place them at specific points, and play with them.
AR technology brings more fun for trainers and Pokémon
In Niantic’s blog, the developers reveal which technical innovations could come to players with iOS 11. With the new ARKit, developers have many options available that they want to utilize in Pokémon GO.
“With the advanced augmented reality, we want to create new, fun, and innovative ways to integrate your Pokémon into the real world around you. The digital world will be much more detailed and accurate in transitioning into the real world.” Greater opportunities to interact with your monsters are another benefit of this development.
In the showcased screenshots, you can see how the technological progress will look in Pokémon GO. Until the ARKit matures, there will likely be many more improvements in this area.
The playground mode is part of the tech demo of the new iOS 11 ARKit. This mode allows users to place Pokémon anywhere in their surroundings and interact with them. Clicking on the monster activates their PokéDex animation.
PokémonGOHub took a closer look at the tech demo of the kit and its features. There you can
place different Pokémon in your environment, which unfortunately do not interact with each other,
walk around the monsters and
swap monsters and move them across the screen.
Currently, there are no other functions like feeding, petting, or walking with them. At this point, this feature is still not fully developed.
These and other features could be incorporated into the game when the ARKit becomes available with iOS version 11 this fall.
In Paladins (PC, PS4, Xbox One) Patch OB 52 comes a new Champion: Zhin – The Tyrant. There is a new game mode “Onslaught” and Ying, Willo and Cassie are getting new, special skins. We have the Patch highlights for you.
In Paladins, Champions are produced almost like on an assembly line. Just two weeks ago Ash joined the hero shooter and has been clearing the front lines ever since. With the new Patch OB 52 comes a new flanker – Zhin, the Tyrant.
Zhin is the new flanker of Paladins. A cruel warrior who burns his enemies with oil.
We can also expect a new game mode “Onslaughter”, for which the Survival mode has been eliminated. Ying gets an epic skin that transforms her into an android. Willo and Cassie also receive special skins. Otherwise, there are adjustments for the interface and several champions.
New Champion Zhin is a flanker with flame sword
Paladins receives a new flanker with Zhin, who uses a sword that he sets on fire with oil.
With the sword, Zhin hurls burning oil at his enemies, dealing direct damage.
He is the first evil character in Paladins and the leader of a dark organization known as “The 1000 Hands”. When Jhin does not use his sword as a ranged weapon, he slashes his opponents directly with the blade.
His ultimate skill “Rage” is a combination of various melee attacks that even teach tanks to fear.
Zhin can dissolve into smoke and disappear or attack from ambush.
Everything you need to know about Zhin you can find here
Paladins OB52: New game mode “Onslaught” – May the most kills win
The new game mode Onslaught will replace the “Survival mode”. It is about landing as many kills as possible as a team.
Every kill gives the team 5 points
Whoever controls the large battle zone in the middle earns 2 points per second
The team that first reaches 400 points wins
If no team has 400 points after 10 minutes, the team with the most points wins
Onslaught means Offensive in German and is a mode where you have to gather as many kills as possible.
New skins for these ladies: 2 x Ying, Willo, Cassie
In OB52, three tough ladies receive a new look. Especially Ying is doing well and receives two new skins, one of which is epic. Willo will look autumnal and Cassie appears in scarlet.
Replicant-Ying
The otherwise cheerful bloom becomes the emotionless and spiteful android. The skin is directly available in the shop for 400 crystals and includes special effects and a unique voice pack.
Replicant-Ying – Ying becomes an emotionless android
Vice King-Willo
Willo transforms from a butterfly to a moth and appears in autumn tones. The skin can be unlocked for 250 crystals in the shop.
Vice King-Willo – The damage dealer now looks more like a moth than a butterfly
Blood Moon Cassie & Mercury Ying
Ying appears in elegant silver garb and Cassie’s “Nightbane” skin is dyed dark red. You have a chance to obtain these skins if you follow official Twitch broadcasts of Paladins.
You can obtain these exclusive skins by following live streams from Paladins’ official Twitch channel.
Champion adjustments in OB 52 – Is Grohk returning to the meta?
Grok has had a hard time keeping up with the other supports lately. The quirky shaman will receive a buff that gives him self-healing.
Grok: His ultimate skill “Storm” now heals Grohk every 0.5s for 500 HP. Once Grohk began to use his ultimate ability, he was often shut down quickly. This is supposed to change in Patch OB 52 and give Grohk more influence again.
Also receiving buffs:
Inara – The healing from “Earthly Vigil” is increased from 60% to 80%. Inara should thus be able to fulfill her role as a tank better.
Makoa – The activation time of “Titan Shield” has been reduced from 0.3 seconds to 0.1 seconds.
Fernando – The card “Cavalier” receives a buff: Increased health bonus from 125/250/375/500 to 150/300/450/600.
Barik: The card “Combat Reset” receives a buff: Healing has been increased from 50/100/150/200 to 100/150/200/250
Ying’s new headpiece from the Replicant skin looks cool in combination with every skin piece. A way to see her without a veil.
What else is in Paladins Patch OB52 – Flamers can finally be ignored in chat
Otherwise, there are some adjustments to the interface and bug fixes in Paladins. Annoying players can now finally be muted in chat. Here are the new features:
Enemies can be recognized faster through improved sound effects. Players should now be able to hear better when an enemy is behind them.
Chat commands /ignore and /block have been added. The internet remains the internet and these commands are unfortunately sometimes necessary.
It is now made clear when it comes to the final point to win a match.
These were our highlights for Paladins’ new Patch OB52. The patch is currently on the test server and will go live on PC in about a week. An exact date is not yet known.
Anthem, the fresh brand from BioWare, aims to set new standards in the open world.
In an interview with Engadget, there is information about BioWare’s new game “Anthem.” The Vice President of Electronic Arts, Patrick Soderlund, talked about the game ahead of E3. His statements have now been published.
Soderlund emphasizes that he is heavily personally involved in “Anthem” and therefore may not be completely objective.
But Anthem is incredibly ambitious. Almost “too ambitious.” But he likes that and is optimistic.
It is a new brand from BioWare. Anthem will elevate the open world and its detail richness to a whole new level. It is something that players have never seen before.
Here is the quote in the original English:
You’ll see us announcing a new IP from BioWare at EA Play, but that game, I think I can say, without sounding like a complete arrogant prick, I think it pushes the boundaries of open-world fidelity to a whole new level, unlike anything you’ve ever seen before. … It’s a new IP from BioWare, they’ve been working on it for quite a while. We’re gonna have a very short section of that at our press conference, and then it will appear with a gameplay demo at a partner’s press conference the day after.
It’s cool for us because it’s been awhile since we came up with a new IP. We actually have several new IPs in development, but to create something from scratch and build something new takes time [laughs]. And this is the first out of more new IP you’ll see from us, and massive, hugely, hugely ambitious — almost to the point of too ambitious, but I like that — and I’m very bullish on it. I love it. I’ve been very personally involved in it and maybe that’s why I’m biased, but I hope people are going to like it.
Mein MMO says: EA raises expectations before the reveal this evening. Much of this may be PR talk, but at least the information that open world will be essential in Anthem is new.
And that the game is ambitious also sounds interesting. The first reactions so far have been rather subdued. Some have already feared that BioWare would play it “safe” and try to stay as close to Destiny as possible.
For FIFA 18 , there is information about the Switch version. While there will be Ultimate Team on the Nintendo Switch, players will have to forego The Journey.
Since February 2017, we’ve known that the Nintendo Switch will receive a FIFA game this year. It is a streamlined version of FIFA 18, specifically designed for the Switch to be.
At E3 2017, EA Sports revealed new information about FIFA 18 on the Switch. It is said to be the best FIFA for a mobile device – but with compromises.
FIFA 18 – What the Switch version offers
EA Sports lists these features for the Switch version of FIFA 18:
Tailored social competitive fun
Play FIFA against anyone, anywhere
Variety of controller and display options, as well as shared Joy-Con support
Thanks to new rendering technology, it promises to be the most advanced FIFA experience ever on a handheld, with new pitch environments, realistic player likenesses, and new gameplay mechanics.
These are the available, currently known game modes: FIFA Ultimate Team, Career Mode, Switch Kick-Off, Local Seasons, Online Seasons, Tournaments, Women’s Teams, and Skill Games. The “Ultimate Team” mode will feature a transfer market, squad-building challenges, and new features that will be introduced over the summer.
If the Switch is in the docking station, the game is said to run in 1080p according to EA. In handheld mode, it’s 720p. FIFA 18 Switch has an online and local multiplayer, allowing you to play against your friends even in places without WiFi.
What content is missing on the Nintendo Switch?
Compared to the “FIFA 18” version on PS4, Xbox One, and PC, the Switch has several compromises:
The game does not run on the Frostbite Engine
The story mode “The Journey: Hunter Returns” is missing
The icons in Ultimate Team are only available on PS4, Xbox One, and PC. There hasn’t been any mention of the Switch until now – Update: Yes, the icons are also available on the Switch.
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FIFA 18 is also set to be released on the Switch on September 29, 2017.
This is an AI-powered translation. Some inaccuracies might exist.
There will also be exotic items in Destiny 2. Bungie speaks about their rarity.
The rarity of Exotics underwent an interesting development in Destiny.
In Year 1, there were extremely rare Exotics like the Gjallarhorn or the Vex Mythoclast, which were powerful and everyone wanted them. However, you had to rely heavily on luck for these weapons, as they were random drops.
When you finally received the Exotic after countless hours of hunting, it was an indescribable, sublime moment of joy that every Guardian fondly remembers.
The biggest cult emerged around the exotic rocket launcher Gjallarhorn because it was not only considered the best weapon in the game but also only appeared in loot every few years. Some players went months without enjoying this weapon, and thus hoped (for a long time in vain) that Xur would bring it back. Those who possessed a Gjallarhorn were the happiest Guardians in the Destiny universe. No one forgets their first “Gjallarhorn drop”.
However, with the expansions of Destiny, such “Gjallarhorn moments” became increasingly rare. The “The Taken King” introduced the Three of Coins, which caused an Exotic rain. Moreover, some Exotics became tied to quests. The random factor in Destiny was thus significantly reduced and replaced with the philosophy of “Master these tasks, and there will be an Exotic as a reward”.
How is the Exotic rarity developing in Destiny? What system does Destiny 2 rely on?
Exotics in Destiny 2 will be more accessible
Gamesrant spoke in an interview with Project Lead Mark Noseworthy about Exotics in Destiny 2. In terms of rarity, they are supposed to be somewhere between early Destiny 1 and late Destiny 1. Noseworthy speaks of a mix of both:
There is something very special about these Gjallarhorn stories from Year 1. However, it is also very nice to complete a quest line and then receive the desired item reliably. Both are pretty cool.
In Destiny 2, Exotics should be something that all players can obtain – not something reserved only for elite players who invest thousands of hours. Therefore, Exotics will be somewhat more accessible than before. However, there will also be things that are very hard to obtain – things that will be highly coveted.
According to Noseworthy, Exotics are an important part of Destiny. They are weapons and armor pieces that change the way you play. Every player should be able to have these experiences.
Are “Gjallarhorn moments” history?
Noseworthy does not provide more information on the Exotics. But it sounds like in the future, less reliance will be placed on the random factor, and more on quests.
Weapons with “Gjallarhorn status” will probably belong to the past. In previous statements, Bungie emphasized repeatedly that there will be no more “over-weapons”.
For this was the negative side of the Gjallarhorn cult: This rocket launcher was the solution to all problems. No strategy was needed; you simply set up a Titan bubble and fired with brutal Gjallarhorn force at the enemies. Thus, every boss fell within a very short time. The Gjallarhorn became a prerequisite on social media to be able to play with others.
In the community, some Guardians are dissatisfied with Noseworthy’s statements. A loot game like Destiny needs extremely rare loot for these special moments. If everyone has all Exotics within a few weeks – where’s the motivation?
However, it remains to be seen how rare Exotics in Destiny 2 will actually be. Noseworthy’s statements leave a lot of room for speculation.
In the new online shooter Star Wars Battlefront 2, the DLCs will be free. Nevertheless, there are ways to spend money. EA relies on microtransactions.
After the announcement of Star Wars Battlefront 2 a few months ago, a news item caused some head-scratching. The developer announced that there would be no season pass. However, Electronic Arts intervened and said, “We’re not so sure about that yet.”
Now, after the presentation of Star Wars Battlefront 2 at E3, it is clear: There is no season pass. The DLCs for Battlefront 2 will be free. Just like with Titanfall 2 or Halo 5, additional content for Battlefront 2 will be provided for free. This is to ensure that everyone can play together.
First DLC in December – revolves around “The Last Jedi”, brings these new heroes
In the first part, paid DLCs had come out, which had splintered the community. This is something they want to prevent with the new game.
There will be various seasons of DLCs for Star Wars Battlefront II. The first DLC will be released in December and will be based on the then new Star Wars film “The Last Jedi”. New characters here should include Finn and Captain Phasma. The planet “Crait” will also be introduced.
The DLC will include maps, characters, vehicles, game modes, weapons, and Star Cards.
Microtransactions to “buy stuff” and speed up progress
As EA confirmed to Gamespot, EA will still try to make money with the game post-release through microtransactions. Players can use these to speed up their progress in the game and buy “stuff”.
There will be the possibility to obtain everything with in-game currency that can be earned in the game. However, for those who prefer to go faster, they can accelerate this through microtransactions.
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It is expressly stated that it is not about players spending money to become better and stronger. One cannot just throw Euros and then dominate everyone, says EA. That is not how it will work.
Star Wars Battlefront II will be released in November for PS4, Xbox One, and PC. EA had already announced that they would introduce monetization methods similar to FIFA Ultimate Team in the shooter games Star Wars Battlefront and Battlefield:
After we already had a review from Schuhmann on The Elder Scrolls Online, Jürgen also weighs in with a test on the ESO chapter Morrowind. For him, Morrowind is the perfect addition to The Elder Scrolls Online.
I associate much more with the name Morrowind than just an outstanding RPG from 2002. Rather, Morrowind was a defining moment in my gaming career. From the very first moment, the twisted setting on the strange island of the Dark Elves captivated me and I joyfully explored this wonderfully haunting land with its dark secrets.
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So I was completely over the moon when I learned at the end of 2016 that Morrowind would be the setting for the next major ESO expansion. But can the online version live up to the original?
Morrowind – The spark of nostalgia is ignited
By now, Morrowind has been released and what can I say? It delivers on its promises.
For me, as an old Morrowind fan, it is exactly the expansion I wished for ESO. Because instead of clumsily reinventing the wheel, ZeniMax relies on what is tried and true and nostalgia.
That may sound negative at first, but in the case of Morrowind, I believe the innovative stagnation is a blessing. Because the clear reference to the old Morrowind and its peculiarities creates an atmosphere that ESO did not have until now.
Therefore, the heart of every Morrowind veteran also beats faster when the characteristic intro music plays. And at the latest by the landing in Seyda Neen – which still looks the same as in the original game 700 years earlier – the smoldering spark of nostalgia has flared into a joyful blaze.
Morrowind – Familiar, yet different
However, Zenimax’s nostalgia does not become stale. Morrowind does not consist of reheated and dusty game elements.
Rather, you feel at every turn in Morrowind that Zenimax is not re-staging the old game from 2002. The island of Vvardenfell is indeed the same and you repeatedly come across familiar places.
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But at the same time, it is a different time, a different era.
For example, the temple city of Vivec is immediately recognizable. Where else do steps pyramids stand in the swamp, over which a gigantic asteroid hovers? But 700 years in the past, the opulent settlement of the great god-king is not yet finished, and many of the later buildings are just excavated pits. Such references create clear added value for all connoisseurs of the setting.
Morrowind – Veterans have more, newcomers too
This strong reference to Morrowind veterans and nostalgia is, however, a double-edged sword. Those who did not play Morrowind back then or hardly played it will of course not understand many of the allusions and references.
However, such “Morrowind virgins” have completely different opportunities. They can discover this original setting for the first time and do not have to buy a 15-year-old RPG to visit Vvardenfell.
Morrowind offers nothing really new, but more of the good same
Of course, the precondition for enjoying Morrowind is that you embrace the “ESO experience.” Because as colleague Schuhmann wrote in his critical article about Morrowind, you have to approach The Elder Scrolls Online in a very specific way to have fun with it. If you play it like a typical MMORPG, you will quickly encounter the limits of enjoyment.
However, if you approach ESO more like a solo RPG that you also play with others, then ESO and Morrowind offer unique experiences that stand out from the bulk of usual MMOs. That is also the reason why ESO has been very successful in its own niche, while pure online RPGs often hopelessly fade against the dominant WoW.
For solo and group players
ESO motivates solo players as you find tons of fully voiced quests, books, and lore elements in the game, allowing you to explore the world for hours just like in Skyrim, Oblivion, and others. Unlike solo RPGs, however, you can also experience ESO with friends. And that even if they have much higher levels than you.
Because thanks to One Tamriel, your character scales so well that even a non-maxed character can make a meaningful contribution to the group’s success.
Additionally, you can spontaneously join a few randomly met adventurers to delve into the next dungeon to fight a few monsters. And for those who want the full MMO experience, they can try the new raid in the Hall of Fabrication and the complex boss fights there.
ESO simply offers a lavish buffet of options for every type of player. Only hardcore soloists or MMO purists may not find joy in the offerings. And friends of dynamic combat systems. The combat gameplay of ESO is still unfortunately quite clunky and unappealing. In this area, I fully agree with Schuhmann and I wouldn’t mind a thorough overhaul.
The right game for me
But even with the unsightly combat system, ESO and Morrowind are ideally the MMOs for me. Here I can explore the world at my own pace, don’t have to worry too much about the optimal build, and regularly encounter interesting things. Occasionally, I get ambitious and craft the currently best weapons.
Or I optimize my skills and throw myself into the next dungeon. Or I equip my PvP skills and tackle the new battlegrounds. For players who like to leisurely dive into a fantasy world and want to play a little here and a little there, ESO still provides the perfect playground with the new chapter.
And this works primarily because the game remains true to itself and does not desperately try to be an MMORPG like Black Desert or World of Warcraft.
So much for my opinion on Morrowind. But what do you think about the new chapter of The Elder Scrolls Online? Do you share my opinion and enjoy Morrowind as a nice encore to a delicious main course? Or are you disappointed because the game still hasn’t changed its fundamentals? Let me know in the comments!
To FIFA 18, the four most important new gameplay features are known. This should make the action on the field even more realistic.
Every year, fans eagerly look forward to what innovations the next FIFA installment from EA Sports will bring. FIFA 17 introduced fundamental changes to the FIFA series last year with the Frostbite engine and the story mode “The Journey”. FIFA 18 builds on this and adds some new gameplay features.
EA Sports announced the main gameplay changes during E3. Four features are mentioned.
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The “Dramatic Moments” titled by EA represent more variety in shots and crosses. New movement and finishing animations allow for fluid scenes and “dramatic goals” in the penalty area.
There is a new crossing control that gives you more options to deliver the ball into the penalty area and find the best passing option.
Real Player Motion Technology in FIFA 18
According to EA Sports, FIFA 18 makes the biggest leap in gameplay innovation ever. This is supposed to be made possible by a new animation system, termed “Real Player Motion Technology“.
Players on the field receive a new reaction tempo and individual player personalities. For example, a Cristiano Ronaldo should have the same movements and character as the real-life counterpart in FIFA 18.
Three aspects are emphasized here:
Player Personality: Whether tall, whether short, whether thin or stocky – the sizes and attributes determine the players’ movements in FIFA 18, so you can observe individual moves from the world’s best players. EA Sports cites as examples Ronaldo’s special sprint, Sterling’s turns, and Robben’s typical arm movements.
Overhauled Dribbling: In 1v1 situations, you can be more creative in FIFA 18. There are supposed to be more precise ball touches, tighter turns, and more explosive advances.
Gameplay Based on Cristiano Ronaldo: “Motion Capture” data from Ronaldo flowed into gameplay elements such as game flow, player reaction, and explosiveness.
Authentic Play Styles
There are new “Team Styles” in FIFA 18, which allow you more tactics on the field. They provide better passing options or new offensive runs, including mentions of Tiki-Taka and high pressing.
Captivating Atmosphere
In terms of atmosphere, FIFA 18 wants to make a big leap forward:
New light conditions and authentic sun positions are meant to create special moods in the various stadiums around the world.
The audience consists of fewer “clone spectators”, and there are “celebration storms” at goals.
Club banners and stadium banners.
Customizable commentary.
Change in grass quality.
Real chants.
New celebration animations – celebrate together with the fans.