Uncrowned Guard

11 hours ago, Demon_skeith said:

Hate to hear it, is it from the Microsoft cutting gaming based jobs?

They seem to have cleaned house once the Activision deal was finalized.  Perhaps it will be a good thing as the studio seemed to produce disappointment after disappointment, but nearly 2,000 lost their jobs, and given how "well" other studios have done under the new Microsoft, I guess only time will tell.

Major Events on the Horizon

The Halo Championship Series (HCS) 2024 has unveiled an exciting roadmap, sparking enthusiasm among the Halo esports community. Fans are eagerly anticipating the chance to witness top-tier Halo gameplay live at several major events scheduled throughout the year. These events, hosted by prominent teams in iconic locations, promise high-octane competitions with substantial prize pools.

Key Tournaments and Dates

The HCS 2024 season kicks off with the HCS Arlington Major, hosted by OpTic Gaming, from March 15-17 in Arlington, Texas. This event at the Esports Stadium is set to be a thrilling opener with a prize pool exceeding $250,000. Following this, the HCS London Major, hosted by Team Quadrant, will bring the first Halo Infinite Major to Europe in May, in London, UK. The specific date is yet to be announced, but fans can expect another $250,000+ prize pool.

July will see the 2023 World Champions, FaZe Clan, hosting the Halo community at the HCS Atlanta Major 2024 in Atlanta, Georgia. Dates for this major event are also pending. Continuing the momentum, the HCS Salt Lake City Major, hosted by Spacestation, is scheduled for September 6-8 in Salt Lake City, Utah, promising to be an unforgettable event with its own $250,000 prize pool.

The Pinnacle: Halo World Championship 2024

The season will culminate with the Halo World Championship 2024, the grand finale scheduled for October 4-6 in Seattle, Washington. This marquee event, with a staggering $1,000,000 prize pool, is set to unite the global Halo community. Fans can expect an electric atmosphere, with some of the most intense and competitive Halo gameplay of the year.

Stay Connected for Updates and Tickets

Halo fans are encouraged to follow HCS on their social media channels, including Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube, for the latest updates on ticket sales and team pass availability for these major events. With the roadmap now public, the excitement is palpable as players and fans alike gear up for a year of top-tier Halo esports action.

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On 9/21/2023 at 12:49 PM, Excommunicado said:

Very cool. I like this a lot. Have you considering posting something similar on TikTok? I know content like this does well on there. 

We do have a TikTok now: Uncrowned Gaming (@uncrownedgaming) | TikTok

Significant Reduction in Esports Staff

Activision Blizzard, according to a report by Dot Esports, has recently undergone a substantial reduction in its workforce, significantly impacting its esports division. The layoffs, which affected various members of the Overwatch League (OWL) broadcast and talent teams, have reduced the esports division to just 12 full-time employees. Among those laid off were prominent figures Matt “Mr. X” Morello and Salome “Soe” Gschwind-Repp, both of whom have been integral to the OWL broadcasts since 2018. This wave of layoffs has come just after the announcement of the new Overwatch Champion Series, casting a shadow over what was initially a hopeful development for Overwatch esports.

Impact on Overwatch and Call of Duty League Personnel

The layoffs have not only affected the Overwatch League but also the Call of Duty League (CDL), with many employees being informed of their termination shortly after the Boston Major event. This drastic downsizing, reportedly leading to the dismissal of around 60 individuals from Blizzard’s esports divisions, has raised concerns about the future of both Overwatch and Call of Duty esports events. The decision to lay off these employees is part of broader layoffs across gaming divisions by Microsoft, which recently acquired Activision Blizzard.

Uncertain Future for Activision Blizzard's Esports Endeavors

The layoffs have left the future of Activision Blizzard's esports initiatives in doubt, particularly for the Call of Duty League. It has been reported that the league's entire team of full-time observers, crucial for broadcasting, has been dismissed. This move hints at a potential shift in the company's approach to esports, possibly towards a model similar to the Overwatch Champion Series run by FACEIT. The current situation has created a sense of uncertainty and disappointment among the staff and fans alike, as the esports community grapples with the implications of these layoffs on the future of competitive gaming under Activision Blizzard's management. The 2024 CDL season, however, is set to continue with upcoming matches, leaving many to wonder about the long-term viability and structure of these leagues.

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Season 2 Launch Date and Walking Dead Crossover

The gaming community is buzzing with excitement as Activision announces the launch date for Season 2 of Modern Warfare 3 (MW3) and Warzone. Slated for release on February 7, this season is shaping up to be a thrilling experience for players. Adding to the anticipation, Activision has unveiled a crossover with the popular TV series "The Walking Dead." In a striking piece of promotional art, Rick Grimes, the iconic character from the show, is featured, signaling his arrival as a new operator in the game. This collaboration is timely, coinciding with the airing of "The Ones Who Live," a new spinoff of "The Walking Dead" set to debut on February 25.

Fortune's Keep Makeover and Game Enhancements

The upcoming season is not just about new characters but also brings significant changes to the game's landscape. The much-loved Resurgence map, Fortune’s Keep, is set for a dramatic return with a complete overhaul. Leaked images hint at a catastrophic event that has transformed the island, impacting its buildings and terrain. Additionally, players can look forward to the reintroduction of the helicopter, a feature fondly remembered from the original Warzone. These changes are expected to inject fresh dynamics and strategies into the gameplay, offering both new and veteran players a revitalized gaming experience.

Anticipation Builds with Teasers and Community Engagement

Activision has masterfully built anticipation for the new season, engaging the community with unique promotional tactics. Warzone streamers were sent packages containing replicas of the POI, revealing clues about the upcoming changes to Fortune’s Keep. This creative approach not only sparked curiosity among fans but also connected them more closely to the unfolding storyline. As the release date nears, players are eagerly awaiting detailed announcements from Activision, outlining all the new features and updates that Season 2 will bring. This season promises to be a landmark event, combining innovative collaborations, map enhancements, and fresh gameplay elements, further cementing Warzone's place in the gaming world.

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5 hours ago, Heatman said:

You should start putting your money on lottery. You might end up winning millions of dollars from it because it was Baldur's Gate 3 that scooped the award just like you predicted. It was indeed a great release. 

Hopefully we will have our own game of the year award next year!

A Surprising Free Collaboration for Players

In an unexpected move, Bungie has announced a unique collaboration with Bioware, bringing the world of Mass Effect into Destiny 2 through a special event bundle. Breaking from their typical approach to collaboration sets, this Mass Effect/Destiny bundle will be made available to all players at no cost. The announcement, which came through the game's official social media channels, has stirred excitement among the gaming community, especially considering the previous costs associated with other collaboration sets like the Witcher series. This free bundle, themed around popular Mass Effect characters like Commander Shepard and Garrus Vakarian, is scheduled to land in Destiny 2 on February 13, 2024.

Contents of the Alliance Requisition Bundle

The upcoming Alliance Requisition Bundle is set to include a variety of Mass Effect-inspired items, enhancing the Destiny 2 experience. Among these are the Enhanced Defense Ghost Shell, Alliance Scout Frigate Ship, and Alliance Drop Ship Sparrow. These items are designed to reflect the aesthetic and spirit of the Mass Effect universe, merging it seamlessly with the Destiny 2 gameplay. The announcement of this bundle has been met with enthusiasm from both Mass Effect and Destiny 2 fans, with some hoping for additional themed weaponry to be included in the future.

Mixed Reactions from the Destiny 2 Community

While many players have expressed excitement about the free bundle, others have voiced concerns about the current state of Destiny 2 and the focus of Bungie's development team. Some members of the community are apprehensive about the attention given to this collaboration, fearing it might detract from the development of the much-anticipated expansion, The Final Shape, which has been postponed to April 2024. Additionally, fans have noted that while the bundle itself is free, the Guardian Armor Skins, a key component of the collaboration, will likely be sold separately in the in-game store, Eververse, possibly maintaining the standard pricing model. This aspect has brought about a mix of anticipation and skepticism among the players, highlighting the diverse expectations within the Destiny 2 community.

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The Inaugural VCT Americas Kickoff Event

The VALORANT Champions Tour (VCT) Americas is gearing up for an exciting start to the 2024 season with the VCT Americas Kickoff scheduled for February 16. This event marks the beginning of a rigorous and thrilling season for the teams, leading up to two international Masters events and the prestigious Champions tournament. The stakes are high at the Kickoff, with two spots at VALORANT Masters Madrid and valuable Championship Points up for grabs. Teams will need to bring their A-game to secure a strong start towards qualifying for Champions 2024. Notably, the league celebrates the participation of G2, a formidable new addition to the competition.

Format and Group Draw for the Tournament

The format for the Kickoff is meticulously structured to ensure intense competition. It includes a Group Stage featuring a double-elimination bracket with best-of-three matches, where winners advance to the Playoff Stage and runners-up proceed to the Play-In Stage. In the Play-In Stage, second-place teams from each group engage in a round-robin format to secure a spot in the playoffs. The Playoff Stage will see all four teams compete in a single-elimination bracket, with the finalists securing their places for Masters Madrid. Additionally, the winner of the Kickoff will receive preferential seeding at Masters Madrid and three Championship Points.

How to Engage with VCT Americas Kickoff

Fans looking to immerse themselves in the excitement can experience the action live at the Riot Games Arena in Los Angeles, known for its unique viewing environment, or watch the live broadcasts in various languages, including English, Portuguese, and Spanish, on platforms like Twitch and YouTube. For those interested in co-streaming, guidelines are available for different regions, with sign-up links provided for hosting Watch Parties. To stay updated on all the action and behind-the-scenes content, fans can follow VCT Americas on social media platforms like X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook, available in multiple languages, or follow our social media for updates about the league.

Staying Connected with VCT Americas

For esports enthusiasts and VALORANT fans wanting to stay connected with the latest updates and content from VCT Americas, there are multiple social media channels to follow. Whether you're interested in photos, player stories, or engaging in multilingual content, VCT Americas provides a rich array of social media outlets to keep fans informed and entertained. From live updates on X (formerly Twitter) to exciting clips on TikTok and comprehensive coverage on Instagram and Facebook, the VCT Americas social media presence ensures that fans won't miss a moment of the esports action.

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Abrupt Delisting from Online Platforms

On January 29th, the gaming community witnessed the unexpected delisting of 'Spec Ops: The Line' from Steam and other PC storefronts. The sudden removal of this well-regarded title sparked questions and concerns among gamers and industry insiders. Cory Davis, the game's designer and director, took to social media to express his confusion and concern over the removal, highlighting the game's continued relevance today.

Licensing Challenges Lead to Removal

The mystery behind the game's delisting was eventually clarified by Joe DiMiero, 2K's communications director. In a statement to the Verge, DiMiero explained that the removal of 'Spec Ops: The Line' from digital stores was due to the expiration of several partnership licenses associated with the game. While the specifics of these licenses were not detailed, it is speculated that they pertain to the game's music, which features notable tracks like Jimi Hendrix’s rendition of “The Star Spangled Banner” and Martha and The Vandellas’ “Nowhere to Run.” Despite its removal from digital stores, players who previously purchased the game can still download and play it without interruption.

Current Availability and Future Uncertainty

As of the latest updates, 'Spec Ops: The Line' remains available for purchase on the Xbox storefront and GOG, although it is uncertain how long it will remain accessible on these platforms. The situation highlights the often complex and temporary nature of licensing agreements in the video game industry, particularly with regards to music rights. This incident serves as a reminder of the impermanence of digital game libraries and the challenges publishers face in maintaining older titles in an ever-evolving digital landscape. The gaming community awaits further developments, hoping for a possible return of 'Spec Ops: The Line' to digital stores in the future.

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Leadership Transition at Blizzard

Blizzard Entertainment, a subsidiary of Activision Blizzard, is set to welcome Johanna Faries as its new president. Faries, who previously held a pivotal role in the Call of Duty (CoD) franchise, will be stepping into the position following the departure of Mike Ybarra. Ybarra's exit comes amid significant changes within Activision Blizzard, including nearly 2,000 layoffs, following the company's acquisition by Microsoft in a deal valued at $69 billion. Faries, who brings a wealth of experience from her tenure in the National Football League (NFL) and her leadership roles in Activision, will take the helm of Blizzard next week.

Faries' Background and Vision for Blizzard

With a rich history in the NFL and significant achievements in Activision, particularly as the head of CoD's esports division and later as the general manager of the franchise, Faries is well-positioned to guide Blizzard through its next chapter. Her appointment is expected to resonate strongly within the communities of Blizzard's popular games, including World of Warcraft (WoW), Overwatch, and Diablo. In her communication with Blizzard staff, Faries acknowledged the unique characteristics and demands of Blizzard's diverse game portfolio, expressing her intention to respect and enhance these beloved gaming universes.

Faries’ Upcoming Initiatives and Blizzard’s Future

Starting February 5th, Faries will officially assume her new role at Blizzard. She plans to engage directly with the team and the broader Blizzard community, starting with a town hall meeting on the Blizzard campus. In her message to the staff, Faries emphasized her admiration for Blizzard's legacy and the transformative power of gaming. She expressed enthusiasm for collaborating with the team to drive innovation and success. Faries' vision for Blizzard is one of empowerment, collaboration, and a commitment to forging a bold and bright future, underlining the potential for new and legendary achievements in the gaming world.

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A Glimpse into an Alternate Call of Duty Universe

Recently, a fascinating glimpse into what could have been a significant shift in the 'Call of Duty' (CoD) franchise emerged through leaked gameplay footage. The video, originating from a cancelled project known as NX1, developed by the former Guitar Hero studio Neversoft, showcased a moon-based mission under the title "Call of Duty: Future Warfare." This footage, which has attracted over 7 million views globally, depicted gameplay in low gravity conditions, offering a distinct experience from the existing CoD games. The project hinted at a radically different path for the franchise, with a futuristic warfare theme that predated the series' actual foray into such settings.

Neversoft's Ambitious Project and Its Cancellation

Brian Bright, the multiplayer lead for the game at Neversoft, provided insights into the development of NX1. The project began following significant shifts at Infinity Ward and the formation of Respawn Entertainment. Neversoft, transitioning from Guitar Hero, embraced the challenge of creating a futuristic CoD title, experimenting with new ideas and exploring the game engine's capabilities. The development of NX1 was substantial, with several campaign missions and multiplayer components underway before its cancellation. The release of a 10-minute video by @mangafigurines on Twitter further piqued fans' interest, offering an extended view of what the project had in store.

The 'What If' Scenario of NX1 and Its Impact

The revelation of NX1's existence presents a compelling 'what if' scenario for the CoD franchise. When the series eventually ventured into futuristic themes, the reception was mixed. For instance, 'Infinite Warfare' faced significant backlash, as evidenced by the negative reception of its trailer on YouTube. This led to the series reverting to more traditional themes in subsequent releases. NX1's early exploration of futuristic warfare suggests that the franchise might have followed a different trajectory had this project come to fruition. The leaks also revealed unused multiplayer maps and modes, demonstrating Neversoft's creative approach. The blend of real-world and fictional elements in these maps and modes, such as "Bin Laden's Compound" and an "Escort" mode, showcased the studio's unique vision for the CoD universe.

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Core Principles of Matchmaking in CoD MWIII

The Call of Duty (CoD) franchise, particularly with the release of 'Modern Warfare III' Season 1, has sparked significant interest and debate within the gaming community regarding its matchmaking system. The developers have now provided insights into the complex process of assembling teams in multiplayer modes. The primary focus of matchmaking in CoD MWIII is to deliver a fun and engaging gaming experience. This process is a result of years of testing and ongoing enhancements. While the term "Skill-based Matchmaking" (SBMM) is commonly used in the community, the developers have clarified that skill, though a factor, is not the predominant criterion in matchmaking. Instead, various elements are considered and prioritized to create balanced and competitive lobbies for players.

Key Factors in Matchmaking Mechanics

The matchmaking system in CoD MWIII is multifaceted, with several critical factors considered in forming a lobby. Foremost among these is the connection quality, ensuring players experience minimal latency and stable game sessions. The time it takes to match players, aiming to reduce waiting periods, is the second most crucial factor. Other important aspects include playlist diversity, recent maps and modes played, skill/performance levels, input devices used, the gaming platform, and whether voice chat is enabled. These factors collectively aim to provide an optimized gaming environment for players globally. Check out of guide for full details on how the system works: Call of Duty: MW3 (2023): Skill-Based Matchmaking (SBMM)

Understanding Skill Measurement and Community Questions

In CoD MWIII multiplayer matchmaking, skill is determined based on a player’s overall performance, including kills, deaths, wins, losses, and mode selection. This measurement is dynamic, constantly updating to reflect a player's recent performance. The inclusion of skill as a factor aims to prevent significant disparities in skill levels within a match, thereby enhancing the overall gaming experience and maintaining a healthy player ecosystem. The developers have also addressed common community questions, confirming that factors such as player engagement, in-game elements like hit registration, spending on in-game content, and the use of bots do not influence the matchmaking process. Future communications from the developers are expected to delve deeper into the technical aspects of matchmaking, including a comprehensive white paper on Ping and Matchmaking, providing further clarity on this integral component of the CoD experience.

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Dominant Performance in Boston

The Toronto Ultra emerged victorious in the first Call of Duty League (CDL) LAN event of the 2024 season, showcasing a remarkable level of skill and strategy. The team's journey to the championship was marked by an impressive record, losing only two maps throughout the entire tournament. Their dominance was particularly evident in Boston, where they clinched the 2024 CDL Major One trophy.

Overcoming Top Seed Atlanta FaZe

In a stunning display of competitive prowess, Toronto Ultra faced off against the top-seeded Atlanta FaZe, who had maintained an unbeaten streak until then. In a decisive battle on January 28, Toronto Ultra managed to defeat Atlanta FaZe not once, but twice, solidifying their status as the new champions. This victory was a significant achievement, given Atlanta FaZe's formidable reputation and previous record in the tournament.

Unbeaten in Hardpoint and Search and Destroy

The Toronto Ultra's success at the Major One tournament was partly due to their unbeatable performance in two specific game modes: Hardpoint and Search and Destroy. Throughout the tournament, the team maintained an undefeated streak in these modes, contributing to their overall map count of 13-2. The only maps they lost were in the Control mode, highlighting their exceptional skill and adaptability in the diverse challenges of competitive Call of Duty play.

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Epic Games' New iOS Strategy for Fortnite

Fortnite, the popular battle royale game by Epic Games, is set to make a comeback on Apple's iOS devices, but with a regional limitation. In a significant move, Epic Games has announced that Fortnite will be accessible to players in the European Union through a newly developed iOS version of the Epic Games Store, slated for release in 2024. The exact date for this launch remains unspecified. This return marks a pivotal moment for Fortnite, which had been absent from the Apple device ecosystem for years.

Impact of the Digital Markets Act

The reintroduction of Fortnite on iOS devices in the EU is a direct consequence of the Digital Markets Act passed in December 2022. This legislation allows developers to introduce their own app stores on Apple's platform, a change that was anticipated to take effect in 2024. The timing of Epic Games' announcement aligns with Apple's recent declaration about new options for app developers on its platform. These options include the ability to offer varied in-app experiences, such as streaming games, within a single application.

Continued Dispute Over App Store Policies

The core of the dispute between Epic Games and Apple dates back to August 2020, when Epic implemented a direct payment method in its Fortnite iOS app. This move enabled users to make payments directly to Epic, bypassing Apple's App Store fees. Apple responded by removing Fortnite from the App Store and terminating Epic's developer accounts, citing a violation of its policies. Despite Apple's latest announcement regarding app development options, it does not seem to accommodate direct in-app payments without using Apple's In-App Purchase system. Epic Games has consistently criticized Apple for exerting excessive control over iOS app development and distribution, a stance that appears unchanged even in light of recent developments.

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Farewell to Halo Infinite 'Seasons'

343 Industries, the developers behind the popular game Halo Infinite, have recently announced a significant shift in their content delivery approach. The game will no longer follow the 'Seasons' format that has been a staple of its content structure. Instead, the focus will shift to what the developers are calling "Content Updates." This change marks a new chapter in the game's evolution, moving away from the seasonal model that players have grown accustomed to.

Celebrating Player Skill: Season 5 Montage

In light of this transition, 343 Industries has released a compilation video celebrating Season 5: Reckoning. This montage showcases the extraordinary talents of the Halo Infinite community, highlighting the impressive gameplay and skills demonstrated by players throughout the season. The video serves as a testament to the enduring skill and passion within the Halo player base, and a reminder of how players continue to push the boundaries of what is possible in the game.

What's Next in Content Update 29

Despite the end of 'Seasons', the journey for Halo Infinite is far from over. The upcoming Content Update 29, set to roll out on January 30th, promises an array of exciting new additions to the game. Players can look forward to a new Arena map named "Illusion," enhanced Forge features, a free Mark IV armor core, and a Halo Wars-themed operation titled "Spirit of Fire." This update indicates that 343 Industries remains committed to delivering fresh and engaging content to the Halo Infinite community.

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Kingdom Under Fire: Heroes.  Been enjoying some classics as of late.

Introduction

"The Finals," developed by Embark Studios and NEXON, is a free-to-play game available on Xbox Series X|S, PlayStation 5, and PC via Steam. This guide will explore its free-to-play model, focusing on the in-game currency, microtransactions, and customization options.

Accessing The Finals

• Platform Availability: "The Finals" is accessible on Xbox Series X|S, PlayStation 5, and PC.
• Downloading the Game: Simply visit your platform’s respective store (Xbox Marketplace, PlayStation Store, or Steam) and download the game for free.

In-Game Currency: Multibucks

• Real-World Purchases: Multibucks are the in-game currency, which you can buy with real money.
• Uses: They are used for purchasing various in-game items and cosmetics.

The Store and Microtransactions

• Accessing the Store: The in-game store is available as soon as you load into the game.
• Items for Purchase:
  • Skins: Customize the appearance of your character.
  • Battle Pass: Offers a progression system with rewards to unlock.
  • Cosmetics: Enhance your gameplay with unique visual elements.
  • Animations: Change your character’s in-game animations, such as weapon inspections and reload actions.
  • Packs: Bundled items, often including a combination of skins, animations, and other cosmetics.

Navigating Microtransactions Responsibly

• Budgeting: Set a budget for in-game purchases to avoid overspending.
• Value Assessment: Consider the value and utility of items before purchasing.
• Free Alternatives: Explore free in-game content and rewards that don't require real money.

Conclusion

"The Finals" offers a rich, free-to-play experience with a variety of customization options through microtransactions. By understanding the in-game economy and navigating microtransactions responsibly, players can enjoy customizing their gameplay experience without overspending. Remember to balance the allure of cosmetics with mindful spending.

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Introduction

While The Finals is not available on Xbox Game Pass, its free-to-play status offers direct accessibility to all players, making its absence on the subscription service less impactful. This guide will provide information on how to access and play "The Finals" for free, and the benefits of its free-to-play model.

Accessing The Finals as a Free-to-Play Game

• Platform Availability: "The Finals" can be downloaded and played for free on platforms where it is available, including Xbox.
• Download Process: Access the platform’s store (e.g., Steam, PlayStation Store, Xbox Marketplace) and search for "The Finals." Download the game without any cost.

Free-to-Play Model: Understanding the Benefits

• No Subscription Required: Unlike games on Xbox Game Pass, "The Finals" doesn’t require any subscription or upfront purchase.
• Wide Accessibility: Being free-to-play makes the game accessible to a broader audience without financial barriers.
• In-Game Purchases: The game may offer optional in-game purchases, typically for cosmetics or other non-essential items.

Xbox Game Pass: Clarifying the Status

• Not Included in Xbox Game Pass: "The Finals" is not part of the Xbox Game Pass library.
• Impact: The impact of this absence is minimal given the game’s free-to-play nature, allowing Xbox players to access it directly through the Xbox Marketplace.

Getting the Best Experience

• Stable Internet Connection: Ensure a stable internet connection for optimal gameplay, especially important for online multiplayer games.
• Engage with the Community: Participate in the game’s online community for tips, strategies, and updates.
• Stay Informed: Follow the game’s official channels for updates, events, and potential new content or features.

Conclusion

"The Finals" being a free-to-play game offers an easy and accessible way for players to experience its unique gameplay without the need for a subscription service like Xbox Game Pass. Its free-to-play status ensures that anyone interested in the game can easily download and start playing, providing an inclusive gaming experience.

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Introduction

The Finals faces compatibility issues on the Steam Deck due to the Anti Cheat not functioning on SteamOS. However, there are several workarounds to play the game on your Steam Deck. This guide covers these methods, outlining their setup, pros, and cons.

Steam Deck's Remote Play

Overview

Remote Play allows you to stream "The Finals" from your PC to your Steam Deck.

Setup

• On Your PC: Install "The Finals" and add it to your Steam library.
• On Your Steam Deck: Connect to the same network as your PC.
• Enable Remote Play: Activate this feature in the Steam settings on both devices.
• Launch the Game: Find "The Finals" in your Steam Deck library and select 'Stream'.

Pros

• No need for additional hardware modifications.
• Relies on your PC's hardware for full game performance.

Cons

• Requires a strong and stable network connection.
• Dependent on your main PC's availability and performance.

Cloud Gaming Services

Options

Services like Amazon Luna, GeForce Now, Shadow, or Xbox Cloud Gaming.

Setup

• Subscription: Sign up for a cloud gaming service that offers "The Finals".
• App Installation: Install the service's app on your Steam Deck.
• Game Access: Log in and play "The Finals" via the cloud service.

Pros

• Play without a high-end PC.
• Regular updates and maintenance from the cloud service.

Cons

• Subscription fees may apply.
• Needs a consistent and fast internet connection.

Installing Windows on the Steam Deck

Overview

Installing Windows on your Steam Deck can bypass the Linux compatibility issue.

Steps

1. Backup: Save all important data beforehand.
2. Create a Windows Installer: Use a USB drive with Windows installation media.
3. Boot from USB: Restart your Steam Deck and boot from the USB.
4. Install Windows: Follow instructions to install Windows on your Steam Deck.

Pros

• Direct access to the Windows version of "The Finals".
• Compatibility with other Windows-exclusive games and apps.

Cons

• Complex setup process.
• Potential warranty voidance or other issues with your Steam Deck.

Conclusion

While "The Finals" is not natively compatible with the Steam Deck, these workarounds offer viable options to enjoy the game. Each method has its own set of advantages and drawbacks, so choose the one that best aligns with your needs and technical capabilities.

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Introduction

Skill-based matchmaking (SBMM) is a crucial component in many competitive online games, and it appears to be a feature in "The Finals," albeit unofficially confirmed by Embark Studios. This guide aims to shed light on the presence of SBMM in "The Finals" and its potential impact on gameplay.

Understanding SBMM in The Finals

SBMM is designed to ensure that players are matched with others of similar skill levels, leading to more balanced and competitive matches.

Indicators of SBMM in The Finals

• Player Observations: Many players have noted on forums and the official Discord that the matchmaking seems to be skill-based.
• Patch Notes References: Updates and patch notes for "The Finals" have mentioned adjustments to matchmaking, suggesting ongoing refinements that align with SBMM principles.

How SBMM Might Work in The Finals

• Criteria for Matchmaking: It likely considers player stats such as Kill/Death (K/D) ratio, wins, score per minute, and more.
• Goal: To create lobbies where squads have similar skill levels, ensuring fair and competitive gameplay.

The Impact of SBMM

• Pros:
  • Encourages fair play.
  • Provides a learning curve for new players.
  • Keeps matches challenging yet enjoyable for experienced players.
• Cons:
  • Can lead to perceived repetitive gameplay for some.
  • High-skill players might face constantly challenging matches without casual play.

Community Response

Mixed Feelings: While some appreciate the balance SBMM brings, others prefer a more casual or varied matchmaking experience.
Ongoing Discussions: The Finals' community continues to debate and discuss the presence and impact of SBMM in the game.

Conclusion

While not officially confirmed, SBMM appears to be a component of "The Finals," aimed at creating balanced and competitive matches based on player skill. Understanding how SBMM works can enhance your approach to the game, whether you're a casual player or someone seeking competitive play. The community's feedback will likely influence future adjustments to this system.

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Introduction

"The Finals" by Embark Studios, an innovative FPS game, has been making waves in the gaming community with its unique gameplay mechanics and destructible environments. If you're curious about its crossplay capabilities, especially for teaming up with friends across different platforms, this guide is for you.

 Crossplay Availability in The Finals

• Crossplay Support: Yes, "The Finals" supports crossplay.
• Platforms Involved: The game allows cross-platform play between PC and current-generation consoles, including the PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series consoles.

How to Enable/Disable Crossplay

• Accessing Settings: In "The Finals," navigate to the Gameplay settings menu.
• Toggle Option: Here, you can enable or disable crossplay according to your preference.

Benefits of Crossplay in The Finals

• Wider Player Base: Crossplay expands the pool of available players, reducing wait times for matches.
• Play with Friends: Regardless of the platform they own, you can team up with friends for cooperative gameplay.
• Diverse Competition: Face off against a broader spectrum of players, enhancing the competitive experience.

Conclusion

"The Finals" embraces the growing trend of crossplay, allowing players on PC, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series consoles to engage in its dynamic, action-packed world together. This feature not only enhances the game’s accessibility but also promotes a more inclusive and diverse gaming community. Whether you’re looking to play with friends on different platforms or enjoy the thrill of competing against a varied player base, "The Finals" delivers an exciting cross-platform experience.

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Introduction

'The Finals' presents a unique gaming experience that focuses heavily on multiplayer elements, with a relatively light touch on lore and narrative. Set in a futuristic world, it revolves around a virtual game show concept. This guide will delve into the limited lore and narrative structure of 'The Finals' to enhance your understanding and appreciation of its setting.

Narrative Experience in Gameplay

• Minimal Story Focus: The game's narrative is more ambient, providing context rather than driving the gameplay.
• Player Experience: The focus is on competitive multiplayer gameplay, with narrative elements adding flavor and setting.
• No Real Campaign: The game lacks any form of a campaign.

The Setting of 'The Finals'

• Timeline: Approximately 75 years in the future, around 2100.
• The World: Known as the 'Meatspace,' the real world contrasts with the more frequented Virtual World.
• The Game Show: 'The Finals' is a globally celebrated virtual game show, providing an escape to a larger, more exciting world.

The Lore and Its Impact on Gameplay

• Virtual Reality Technology: Players access the hyper-realistic arenas of 'The Finals' through VR technology.
• Arenas: These are designed for intense competition, where contestants vie for fame and riches.
• Game Show Theme: The game's mechanics and aesthetics are heavily influenced by its game show setting.

Role of Sponsors

• Influence: Sponsors are integral to 'The Finals,' driving both the world's narrative and the game mechanics.
• Brand Exposure: Sponsors seek visibility for their brands and products in the game show's massive audience.
• Sponsored Gear: This gear is a symbol of success and prestige for contestants.

Characters and Their Roles

• Diverse Cast: 'The Finals' features a range of characters, including mascots, announcers, and commentators.
• Character Functions: These characters contribute to the game show atmosphere, enhancing the immersive experience.

Conclusion

While 'The Finals' may not offer a traditional campaign or a deep narrative, its unique setting and lore create an engaging backdrop for its multiplayer-focused gameplay. The futuristic game show concept, combined with VR technology and the influence of sponsors, crafts a distinct and entertaining virtual world.

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It seems like months of poor updates and balance issues have really hurt the game.  I rarely hear people talking about it anymore.