In The Division, the Last Stand PvP mode utilizes normalization. We explain how this works here.
The “Last Stand” DLC introduces the eponymous “Last Stand” PvP mode. In it, you engage in 8v8 battles, defeating some NPC enemies along the way, and try to collect data faster than the opposing team.
To prevent players with optimized builds from dominating in this enclosed PvP mode, Massive employs normalization. This is only active in “Last Stand”; the “normal Dark Zone” is not affected by this. The developers aim for skill, not gear, to determine victory.
How Normalization Works – The Division 1.6
During the PTS phase for 1.6 and “Last Stand,” normalization was tested and adjusted multiple times. When you enter a “Last Stand” match in The Division 1.6, your characters will be modified (normalized):
- Gear: All equipped items (weapons and armor pieces) are set to a Gear Score of 256.
Armor:
- Main attributes (firearms, stamina, electronics) are set to the maximum roll for the equipped armor pieces.
- All bonuses on gear and performance mods are given the maximum roll.
Weapons:
- Weapon talents are activated based on the normalized main attributes.
- All weapon bonuses (including mod bonuses), weapon damage, and attributes are set to their respective maximum values.
Additionally:
- All players are set to a 35% armor reduction. This armor reduction can, however, be influenced by talents and skills.
What is Not Affected by Normalization?
With all these adjustments, the question arises: What remains untouched by normalization? What features still make my agent unique?
- You can freely choose the character talents
- The gear set talents function in “Last Stand” the same as in the rest of the game
- The weapon set bonuses and weapon talents remain normal
- Furthermore, you can choose the bonuses on the armor pieces and mods. These will be maximized – but which bonuses get maximized is up to you.
Have you played “Last Stand” yet? What are your impressions?
You can read detailed information about the “Last Stand” mode here.
