Ubisoft has announced that The Division Resurgence will be launching on March 31 for iOS and Android. The free-to-play mobile game is set in The Division universe, offering an MMO-style shared open world with co-op and solo gameplay.
Last year, Embark and Bungie conducted playtests for their extraction shooters, with Bungie's Marathon being their first project outside the Destiny universe in over 15 years. Arc Raiders, developed by Embark, launched as the first mainstream title in the genre, while Marathon faced delays. The author initially felt indifferent towards Marathon but grew enthusiastic after playing for over four days. The game features a PvP experience with looting mechanics, weapon upgrades, and unique gun modifications. Critics compare Marathon to Call of Duty and Apex Legends, but the author finds its pacing more similar to Halo, emphasizing positioning and timing. The game includes movement shooter elements, allowing creative navigation techniques. Weapon designs are visually appealing and feature a variety of modifications. The game's progression system encourages experimentation with builds, and the vendor system aids in resource management. The upcoming full version will include a third map, Outpost, and additional content like the Cryo Archive.
Bungie conducted a "server slam" for the reboot of Marathon to stress-test its online capabilities ahead of the release on March 5th. Players provided feedback on various aspects, including:
- UI Feedback: Bungie is collecting user input on the user interface and plans to iterate post-launch.
- PC Performance: Issues reported include high CPU usage, low GPU utilization, FPS ceilings around 80-100, and stuttering.
- PvP Frequency: Bungie is investigating player density on maps and welcomes feedback on gameplay experiences.
- Movement and Heat Generation: Discussions about heat generation and momentum are ongoing, with players encouraged to share thoughts on movement mechanics.
- Med and Ammo Economy: Feedback on the economy of medical supplies and ammunition, particularly regarding stack sizes and item effectiveness, is being collected.
- Weasel Error Codes: Players have encountered Weasel error codes related to network disruptions, and Bungie is investigating these issues.
The author expressed mixed feelings about the gameplay experience, noting issues with extraction-shooting mechanics and ammunition shortages, while appreciating the art direction.
Anticipation surrounds the game Marathon, noted for its vectorheart-inspired art style. Cicadamata, a new game, features a bold visual design with animated text and a sense of urgency. Players control Fawn-A2, navigating the Cascade and acquiring cores while using a cybershotgun. Gameplay includes mastering moves like triple jumps and air dashes, with intricate shooter maps and immersive audio-visual elements. The game is fast-paced, presenting challenges that some may find difficult but rewarding. Cicadamata's demo is available on Steam until March 5, with the full game expected to launch later this year.
Bungie's multiplayer FPS, Marathon, is currently in an early Server Slam until March 2, with a full release on March 6. The game is designed to be accessible on mid-range PCs and does not require high-end GPU power. Initial settings for optimal performance include Vsync on, frame rate cap off, field of view at 90°, and high graphics quality. Players can expect an average frame rate of 84fps with 60fps for 1% lows. The game is not compatible with the Steam Deck due to BattleEye anti-cheat technology but runs smoothly on other Windows-based handheld devices. While an SSD is not required, it is recommended for better load times. Performance monitoring can be done via a built-in FPS counter or overlays from Nvidia and AMD.
The author completed the original Mass Effect and shifted focus to extraction shooters, particularly Marathon, influenced by experiences in Arc Raiders. During the first 24 hours with Marathon, the author compared it to Arc Raiders, noting the challenging gameplay dynamics, including a fast time-to-kill (TTK) and the importance of teamwork. Initial frustrations with Marathon's pace shifted to appreciation as the author adapted strategies with friends. The game emphasizes sound and teamwork, with a TTK that feels punishing but manageable with squad support. The author reflected on the need for better resource management, expressing concerns about inventory issues and the early loss of loadouts. They suggested that Bungie should streamline gameplay to enhance the PvP experience.
Vampire’s Fall 2 is a free-to-play 2D dark fantasy RPG developed by Early Morning Studio, launched on Steam. It is a sequel to Vampire’s Fall: Origins, set hundreds of years later and designed to be accessible for newcomers. The original game is priced at £9.99, while the sequel includes microtransactions and pay-to-win elements. The PC version offers enhanced graphics and audio, a tailored user interface, and is free of ads or paywalls. The game features turn-based combat, nine weapon types, and four skill trees, allowing for customizable combat styles. Players can explore an open world, engage in PvP mode, and have reported an 85% 'Very Positive' review rating.
Arc Raiders has been a dominant presence in the author's gaming time since its launch at the end of October, even with new seasons for other games like Black Ops 7 and Battlefield 6. The author has experienced some fatigue with Arc Raiders recently, despite previously believing it would succeed. Key features of Arc Raiders include emergent gameplay, flexible engagement options, and a free loadout system. However, the author notes a lack of new content, such as weapons, maps, and enemy types, since the launch of Stella Montis, leading to diminished interest. Upcoming updates, including the Shrouded Sky update, promise new content, but the author expresses concern that if this update does not reignite excitement, they may shift their focus to Marathon, which offers polished gameplay and customization options that Arc Raiders currently lacks.
Bungie's new title, Marathon, will launch on March 5, marking the company's first release outside the Destiny universe in over a decade. Players will have the option to disable cross-platform matchmaking, allowing PS5 and Xbox Series X/S users to avoid competing against PC players. Marathon will feature a mix of PvP, PvE, and PvPvE gameplay elements, but will not use matchmaking strategies from other titles like Arc Raiders. A server slam is scheduled for February 26 to preview the game. Sony has received positive feedback from playtests, which has informed adjustments to improve the game before its release.