Uncrowned Guard

Perception of Slower Movement Speed Post-Launch

Since its surprise launch at The Game Awards, 'The Finals' has been experiencing a surge in popularity, continuing the momentum from its open beta phase. However, players have raised concerns about a perceived slowdown in the movement speed of characters, compared to the beta version. The developers at Embark Studios have clarified that there have been no changes to the movement system or the speed itself. After thorough investigation, the team believes that recent adjustments in other aspects of the game might be influencing the players' perception of movement speed.

Identified Factors Affecting Movement Perception

The developers identified that minor modifications made to animations, sounds, and game settings could be contributing to the sensation of slower movement. One significant factor is the default Field of View (FOV) setting, which was reset to 71. A lower FOV can create an illusion of slower movement, affecting how players experience the game. Embark Studios suggests that players check and adjust their FOV settings as a potential solution. Additionally, the team is actively working on rebalancing some of these changes to restore the original feel of movement in the game.

Addressing Launch Issues and Misinterpretation of Feedback

It's not uncommon in the gaming industry for players to misinterpret the cause of certain issues, particularly in first-person shooters where audio and visual elements play a crucial role in the gameplay experience. 'The Finals' developers are also dealing with other launch-related issues like server problems and matchmaking difficulties, alongside the error code TFLA0004, which restricts gameplay access. The team at Embark Studios appears committed to resolving these issues promptly and improving the overall player experience.

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2 hours ago, Spartan said:

Nice changes, Lego Fortnite is insane and gonna be a big game. Did 2 3+ hour sessions over my days off

I am very excited to give it a try!  It basically looks like Lego Minecraft and that just sounds amazing.

Unveiling an Unexpected Collaboration

In a move that caught many by surprise, 'Apex Legends' is set to collaborate with the beloved 'Final Fantasy' series in January 2024. This crossover, celebrating 'Final Fantasy VII Rebirth', brings a unique fusion of two vastly different gaming worlds. Starting January 9, 'Apex Legends' players will have the opportunity to access three special skins inspired by the classic RPG franchise. These skins, designed for the characters Crypto, Wraith, and Horizon, integrate the distinctive aesthetic of 'Final Fantasy' into the Apex universe. One of the major highlights of this collaboration is the inclusion of the Buster Sword, reimagined in the 'Apex Legends' style, offering a fresh take on the iconic weapon.

A Strategic Move in Gaming Marketing

This collaboration aligns strategically with the ramp-up in advertising for 'Final Fantasy VII Rebirth', scheduled for release on February 29. By introducing 'Final Fantasy'-themed content in 'Apex Legends' a month prior, the collaboration aims to build excitement and anticipation among fans of both franchises. The timing of this event is particularly beneficial for 'Final Fantasy' enthusiasts, as it offers a unique prelude to the much-awaited game release. This crossover represents a significant moment in gaming marketing, leveraging the popularity of both games to create a buzz in the gaming community.

What’s Next for Apex Legends Players

As 'Apex Legends' concludes its current Uprising event, this crossover with 'Final Fantasy' promises to keep the momentum going into the new year. Players can still engage in the Uprising event's limited-mode Revenant Uprising until January 1. Additionally, a variety of new skins are currently available, perfect for those looking to enhance their in-game experience during the holiday season. With the 'Final Fantasy' collaboration on the horizon, 'Apex Legends' players have much to look forward to in terms of content and unique gaming experiences. This crossover is a testament to the evolving nature of game collaborations, offering players new ways to engage with their favorite titles.

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A Revolutionary Destructive Environment

"The Finals," a unique first-person shooter game, has made its debut, offering an unprecedented gaming experience where everything in the environment is destructible. Developed by Embark Studios, which includes former developers of the Battlefield series, "The Finals" represents a major shift in shooter game design. The game, now available on PS5, Xbox Series S/X, and PC, distinguishes itself with a groundbreaking server-side destruction system that took nearly five years to develop. This feature allows players to engage in an arena where every element, from buildings to objects, can be demolished, creating a dynamic and ever-changing battlefield.

Gameplay Dynamics and Innovations

The game sets players in teams of three in a game show-like arena where the objective is to collect cash and secure victory. Players can choose from three classes – light, medium, and heavy – each equipped with distinct weapons and abilities. The defining aspect of "The Finals" lies in its innovative approach to gameplay, where players can use the environment to their advantage, leading to unpredictable and exhilarating combat scenarios. From demolishing buildings to triggering UFO invasions and orbital lasers, "The Finals" elevates the shooter genre to new heights of interactive and immersive gameplay.

The Future of "The Finals" and Its Place in Gaming

Embark Studios' commitment to delivering a unique gaming experience is evident in "The Finals." The game's launch marks a significant moment for fans of first-person shooters, offering a fresh alternative to traditional titles in the genre. The Las Vegas map, one of the key additions at launch, features large interconnected interiors and events like UFO invasions, adding layers of complexity and excitement to the gameplay. The studio's dedication to enhancing the game through continuous playtesting and innovative design points to a promising future for "The Finals." As the gaming world evolves, "The Finals" stands out as a testament to the creative potential within the industry, offering a new kind of chaos and excitement for players.

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Last-Minute Announcement Reveals Streaming Platform

In a surprising turn of events, the 2024 Call of Duty League (CDL) season's streaming platform has been officially announced less than 24 hours before the start of the event. After much speculation and anticipation, it has been confirmed that the entire season will be streamed exclusively on YouTube. This last-minute revelation comes as a relief to fans who have been eagerly waiting to find out where they can watch the upcoming matches. The decision to keep the broadcasting details under wraps until the eve of the season opener had left the esports community in suspense.

YouTube Continues Its Partnership with CDL

The choice to stream exclusively on YouTube marks a continuation of the platform's relationship with the Call of Duty League. This partnership highlights YouTube's commitment to expanding its presence in the esports arena, offering a dedicated platform for one of the most popular first-person shooter games in the competitive gaming scene. The exclusive deal underscores the platform's strategy to become a major player in esports broadcasting, alongside its vast array of content offerings.

Implications for Fans and the Esports Community

For fans of the Call of Duty League, the announcement brings a sense of relief and excitement. With the season's matches being streamed on YouTube, viewers can anticipate a seamless and high-quality viewing experience, given the platform's robust streaming infrastructure. However, the late announcement has also sparked discussions about transparency and communication in the esports industry. The delay in revealing the streaming details has highlighted the need for more timely information sharing in future events, ensuring fans are well-informed and can plan their viewership accordingly. As the CDL season commences, all eyes will be on YouTube to deliver an engaging and uninterrupted esports experience.

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Surge in Cheaters Due to Security Team Reduction

'Destiny 2', the popular game developed by Bungie, is facing a significant increase in cheating incidents following the company's recent layoffs. In late October, Bungie reduced its workforce substantially, affecting various departments, including the Player Security team. This team, crucial for monitoring and addressing in-game cheating, was heavily impacted, leading to a noticeable surge in cheating within 'Destiny 2'. Players and streamers have reported a marked increase in cheating, particularly during the Trials of Osiris event, with some even describing the competitive PvP modes as unplayable due to the rampant cheating.

Impact on PvP Content and Future Concerns

The layoffs not only affected the Player Security team but also extended to other departments, including the new PvP strike team. Several content testers from this team were let go, raising concerns about the future quality and integrity of PvP content. The reductions come at a critical time when Bungie had been making strides in improving PvP support. With the upcoming release of Marathon, another competitive PvP game, there are growing concerns about how the reduced security measures will handle potential cheating issues, which are common in the competitive gaming scene.

Long-term Effects and Employee Voices

The ramifications of the layoffs extend beyond the immediate surge in cheating. Former employees have started speaking out about the circumstances surrounding the layoffs, providing insights into the challenges 'Destiny 2' is now facing. With a reduced team, it appears that Bungie will struggle to regain control over the cheating issues in the near future. This situation threatens the viability of 'Destiny 2's most competitive PvP modes, with concerns that these modes might become untenable if the cheating problem is not addressed effectively and swiftly. The situation underscores the importance of dedicated security teams in maintaining the integrity of online gaming experiences.

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A Festive Twist with the Winter Fair Battle Pass

Overwatch 2, developed by Blizzard Entertainment, is gearing up for its winter event, bringing an exciting update to its players. For the first time, the game will feature two battle passes simultaneously during its eighth competitive season. Alongside the standard battle pass, Overwatch 2 is introducing a special "Winter Fair" Battle Pass. While detailed information is sparse, this mini battle pass is set to include a blend of classic and new skins, along with additional festive rewards. The Winter Fair pass is designed to celebrate the holiday season, offering unique cosmetic items for characters like Baptiste, Widowmaker, Reinhardt, and Cassidy, including exclusive skins for Baptiste and Reinhardt, and the return of rare skins for Widowmaker and Cassidy.

Maintaining the Regular Seasonal Offerings

The introduction of the Winter Fair battle pass does not mean the replacement of the regular season 8 battle pass. The usual battle pass will continue to offer its standard array of skins and cosmetic rewards, consistent with previous Overwatch 2 seasons. The Winter Fair pass serves as an extra offering, giving players more options to enhance their gaming experience. Both the regular and the mini battle passes will feature paid and free tiers, ensuring that all players have the opportunity to earn some rewards, regardless of whether they opt to purchase the additional battle pass.

Nostalgic Elements and Accessibility for Players

The Winter Fair battle pass revives a nostalgic element from earlier Overwatch mechanics, where players could earn special event skins by winning a certain number of games. The structure of the new battle pass, which includes a statement about "completing games with wins granting double progress," is reminiscent of these earlier events. This approach ensures that the rewards are attainable for all players, adding a fun and accessible element to the holiday season. For those who typically don't purchase the main season's battle pass, the Winter Fair pass presents an attractive option, likely to be offered at a lower price than the full pass, making it an appealing addition for the festive period.

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Both official and leaked content from the upcoming Grand Theft Auto 6 all seem to lack PC listings in the information.  It is not very surprising to hear Rockstar not supporting PC at launch, but many were hopeful that the success of other GTA games PC would influence their opinions.

What do you think of GTA not landing on PC?  Will they simply delay the PC date or is there simply no PC version being made?

3 hours ago, Spartan said:

I loved firefight mode on Reach I believe it was! Can’t wait to try this mode out.

I love Firefight.  I mostly played it via ODST, but Reach had the mode as well.  It is still one of my favorite game night modes with friends.

Anticipation Builds for CDL Season Opener

The 2024 Call of Duty League (CDL) season is set to commence in just 4 days, with teams and fans alike eagerly anticipating the start. While teams are engaged in their pre-season preparations, a significant question looms large for fans: Where will the CDL be broadcast this season? The answer to this query has been a topic of debate and speculation within the esports community, especially considering the league's previous broadcasting history and agreements.

Debating the Broadcast Platform: YouTube or Twitch?

Historically, the CDL has seen shifts in its broadcasting platforms. After three years of exclusive streaming on YouTube, the 2023 season marked a change as matches were broadcast on both YouTube and Twitch. This dual-platform approach came after discussions and reported disagreements among league owners regarding another exclusive YouTube deal. OpTic co-founder Hector “H3CZ” Rodriguez and 100 Thieves founder Matthew “Nadeshot” Haag have been vocal about their preferences in this regard. The debate centers around the advantages of exclusive streaming rights and additional revenue versus prioritizing viewership and accessibility for fans. Nadeshot has emphasized the importance of viewership and fan engagement over monetary gains from exclusive media rights deals.

Uncertainty Lingers as Season Nears

With the CDL's opening match between Atlanta FaZe and Boston Breach drawing near, there remains uncertainty about the official broadcasting platform for the 2024 season. This lack of clarity has sparked discussions and comparisons with traditional sports leagues, where such information is typically announced well in advance. The silence from the league and its partners since the summer has left fans and commentators in a state of speculation. The decision on the broadcasting platform is not just about where to watch the games; it reflects broader considerations about the league's strategy for fan engagement, accessibility, and long-term sustainability. As the countdown to the season opener continues, the esports community awaits an official announcement regarding the broadcast details for the eagerly anticipated 2024 CDL season.

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Introducing Firefight: King of the Hill

Halo Infinite, from 343 Industries, is set to expand its gameplay universe with the addition of the much-awaited Firefight mode. Scheduled for release on December 5, this update brings the mode, now called "Firefight: King of the Hill," where teams of four players will battle against waves of Banished enemies. This mode will be available across nine maps, including the House of Reckoning from Halo Infinite's campaign and maps created by the community. A detailed blog post is expected to be released shortly before the update, offering more insights into this new mode.

Enhancements to Forge and Custom Game Browser

The upcoming update also brings significant improvements to the Forge mode, enhancing the player experience with the addition of high-value targets and bosses. These new elements promise to reward players with special weapon variants, elevating the strategic aspect of gameplay. Additionally, the update introduces Skulls in Node Graph and other quality-of-life enhancements. In parallel, the Custom Game Browser will see notable changes, such as allowing Fireteam Leaders to add their entire party to a session, along with fixes aimed at resolving issues that hinder players from joining sessions.

Stability Improvements and Networking Updates

Focusing on the technical side, 343 Industries is dedicated to increasing Halo Infinite's stability by addressing crash issues and enhancing the online experience. The update includes improvements to the game’s networking and reporting systems, which will help in better detecting and understanding the causes of crashes. This effort has been particularly geared towards addressing multiple crash instances on PC and Xbox Series X|S platforms. These enhancements are part of 343 Industries' ongoing commitment to provide a smoother and more reliable gaming experience for Halo Infinite players.

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Fortnite's latest chapter, "Chapter 5: Underground," following the dramatic Big Bang event, introduces players to a completely revamped battle royale island. This new chapter heralds a variety of fresh and intriguing locations, including a functional railway with a traversable train, marinas, luxurious mansions, expansive grasslands, and snowy areas. These diverse environments promise to offer players a rich and varied gaming experience, filled with new strategies and exploration opportunities.

Gameplay Innovations: Boss Battles and Enhanced Mechanics

"Underground" brings significant gameplay enhancements to Fortnite, most notably the introduction of boss battles. Players will encounter five unique boss characters scattered across the island, one of whom is the animated Peter Griffin. Defeating these bosses grants players a special medallion, which offers the ability to regenerate shields over time. However, this advantage comes with a risk: possessing a medallion alerts other players to your location, increasing the stakes of survival. Additionally, the update introduces the Ballistic Shield weapon, allows movement while healing or restoring shields, and includes weapon modding capabilities at specific island locations.

Expanding Customization and Exciting Partnerships

Fortnite continues to expand its customization options, now allowing players to personalize vehicles with different bodies, decals, and wheels. When players enter a sports car in the game, it automatically adopts their customizations, including select items from Rocket League for those who play both games. This season's battle pass offers the chance to unlock new boss characters, a new version of Jones, and Solid Snake later in the season. Fortnite also announced an upcoming "Lego Fortnite" in-game experience, launching on December 7th, as part of a survival crafting game. This collaboration extends to over 1,200 existing skins, which will include a Lego style option, transforming characters like Peely the banana into Lego brick forms, although these styles are limited to specific Lego experiences within Fortnite.

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Destiny 2's Iron Banner, a staple in the PvP landscape, is set to return with three confirmed dates during the Season of the Wish. The event, known for its intense competitive play, will start and end on the weekly reset times at 10 a.m. PST / 1 p.m. EST. Players can mark their calendars for these weeks: Week 2 (Dec. 5 to Dec. 12, 2023), Week 6 (Jan 2 to Jan. 9, 2024), and Week 9 (Jan. 23 to Jan. 30, 2024). Given the extended duration of the Season of the Wish, which now runs from February to June due to the delay of The Final Shape expansion, there's a likelihood of additional Iron Banner events being announced in the future.

Introducing Tribute: A New Twist in Iron Banner

The Season of the Wish brings an innovative addition to the Iron Banner with the introduction of Tribute, a new game mode inspired by the Supremacy rules in Destiny 2. In this mode, defeating enemies causes them to drop Crests, which players can collect and deposit at special Tribute Stations for points. Accumulating and banking a large number of Crests at once triggers a Hunt, activating a special Tribute Station for a limited time. During a Hunt, any Crests deposited count for additional points, adding a strategic layer to the gameplay. 

The Twist of Cabal Involvement

Bungie's update teases an intriguing new element in the Tribute mode: the watchful presence of the Cabal empress, Caiatl. This suggests that players will face more than just enemy Guardians during their quest for high point deposits. Cabal enemies or turrets may pose additional challenges at the special Hunt stations, requiring players to navigate both PvP combat and PvE obstacles. This twist not only heightens the excitement of the Iron Banner but also adds a fresh dynamic to the player experience in Destiny 2's competitive scene.

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Season 1 of Modern Warfare 3, launching on December 6, promises an array of new content for players. This includes the introduction of brand-new multiplayer maps, designed to enhance the 6v6 and 2v2 gameplay experiences. Fans of the series will be excited for the holiday-themed reskins of other maps, adding a festive touch to the game. Additionally, the return of the popular Gunfight mode, featuring fast-paced 2v2 battles on small maps, is set to reinvigorate the gaming experience. The Training Facility map and four classic Gunfight maps are among the new additions, offering diverse and exciting battlegrounds.

Exciting Game Modes and Upgrades

The first season of Modern Warfare 3 also introduces new game modes and killstreaks to elevate the gameplay. All or Nothing, a free-for-all mode with a limited loadout, makes a return from the original Modern Warfare 3, offering a nostalgic yet challenging experience. The upcoming Vortex mode, themed around the Ray Gun from Zombies, is set to arrive later in the season, adding a unique twist to the game. Players can also look forward to two new killstreaks: The Swarm, deploying mosquito drones, and the EMP, disrupting enemy equipment. These additions provide strategic depth and new ways to dominate in matches.

Zombies Story Expansion and Warzone Integration

For Zombies fans, Season 1 brings a new story act to continue the narrative, along with a massive gateway that opens up new end-game content. Dark Aether rifts introduce labyrinth-like challenges, rewarding players with unique items upon completion. The season also features the addition of the V-R11 Wonder Weapon and a new Warlord fortress to conquer. In Warzone, players can anticipate the integration of Modern Warfare 3 content with the new Urzikstan map. The holiday event in Warzone adds an LTM featuring a Zombie Santa and deer-hunting, providing a fun, festive twist to the battle royale experience. Additionally, new shop bundles themed around The Boys, Dune, and Santa will be available, alongside new daily, prestige, and seasonal challenges, ensuring a continually fresh and engaging gaming experience.

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Bungie has unveiled "Warlord’s Ruin," the second dungeon in Destiny 2's Lightfall year, offering Guardians a thrilling new adventure. This dungeon invites players to venture into a hidden fortress filled with dangerous challenges. The primary objective is to recover the bones of an Ahamkara, a mythical wish-granting dragon believed to be extinct. This dungeon promises a blend of intrigue and peril, as players navigate through its complex and mysterious environment.

Accessing the New Dungeon: Warlord’s Ruin

"Warlord’s Ruin" is accessible to players who have the Lightfall + Annual Pass edition of Destiny 2, providing them with instant access to this captivating new dungeon. For those who do not have the pass, the Lightfall Dungeon Key is available for purchase, allowing entry into the dungeon. This flexibility ensures that all interested players have the opportunity to explore the depths of Warlord’s Ruin and uncover its secrets.

Season of the Wish: Unveiling New Story Missions

In addition to the launch of Warlord’s Ruin, Destiny 2 has also rolled out the "Season of the Wish," which started on November 28. This season includes weekly story missions where Guardians collaborate with Queen Mara Sov. The central narrative revolves around making a deal with Riven, the last Ahamkara, whose Fifteenth Wish is crucial for unlocking a path into the Traveler. This development is a key part of the build-up to "The Final Shape," set to release on June 4, 2024. The Season of the Wish, thus, not only enriches the storyline of Destiny 2 but also sets the stage for the upcoming major events in the game.

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Activision has announced an exciting lineup of store bundles for Call of Duty: Modern Warfare III and Warzone as part of their Season 1 update. Players can look forward to a diverse range of characters, including a formidable version of Santa Claus and figures from the renowned Dune universe. The update promises to add a fresh, dynamic twist to the game, offering new experiences for players.

Spotlight on New Operator Bundles: From Santa Gnaws to Dune Characters

The Santa Gnaws bundle introduces a daunting version of Santa, complete with a red cap and an impressively muscular physique. This bundle isn't just about looks; it includes two weapon skins, a sticker, a charm, and an animated emblem, enhancing the gameplay experience. Additionally, the Dune Part Two bundle brings characters Paul Atreides and Feyd-Rautha Harkonnen into the game, portrayed by Timothee Chalamet and Austin Butler in the upcoming movie Dune: Part II. This follows a previous Dune-themed DLC bundle released earlier in November, expanding the universe within Call of Duty.

Upcoming Additions: The Boys and More

Further enriching the game's character roster, upcoming store bundles will feature A-Train from the popular TV series The Boys, along with another yet-to-be-revealed character from the show. Speculation is rife that it could be Firecracker, a character slated to appear in the show's fourth season in 2024. As Season 1 of Modern Warfare 3 and Warzone rolls out on December 6, players can also expect the debut of the new Urzikstan map for Warzone and additional multiplayer maps for Modern Warfare 3. While the pricing for these new bundles has not been disclosed, they typically retail for around $20, offering players a mix of aesthetics and utility. GameSpot provides in-depth coverage of all the upcoming features and content in Season 1.

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Dragon Age Origins used to mess with me all the time.  I would feel like I'd have the system down and then just get wiped out at a certain point in the game with no way to overcome the boss.  I eventually got through it, but never really mastered the party building of the game.

Vanguard Strikes in Destiny 2 are cooperative PvE (Player vs. Environment) activities designed for teams of three players. They involve completing a series of objectives culminating in a boss fight. This guide will help you navigate and excel in these strikes.

Getting Started with Vanguard Strikes

1. Accessing Strikes: Strikes can be accessed through the Vanguard playlist in the Destinations tab of your Director.
2. Requirements: While there are no stringent requirements, it’s advisable to have a decent Power Level to comfortably handle the challenges.
3. Team Formation: You can enter the playlist solo, where you'll be matchmade with other players, or form a fireteam with friends.

Understanding Strike Mechanics

• Objectives: Each Strike has unique objectives leading up to the boss fight. These can range from defending a point, solving simple puzzles, to eliminating specific targets.
• Enemies: You'll encounter a variety of enemies specific to the strike's theme. Understanding enemy types and their weaknesses is key.
• Boss Fights: Each Strike culminates in a boss fight. Bosses often have unique mechanics and vulnerabilities.

Effective Strategies for Vanguard Strikes

• Loadout Selection: Choose a balanced loadout to handle a variety of enemy types. Include weapons for close, mid, and long-range combat.
• Team Roles: Although formal roles aren’t required, it helps to balance your team with a mix of offensive, defensive, and support abilities.
• Communication: Stay in communication with your team. Coordinate your attacks, especially during boss fights.
• Reviving Teammates: Be prompt in reviving fallen teammates but also cautious not to get yourself killed in the process.
• Environmental Awareness: Pay attention to your surroundings. Many strikes feature environmental hazards or mechanics that can be used to your advantage.
• Modifiers: Some Strikes may have modifiers that change certain gameplay dynamics like increased elemental damage or enhanced abilities. Adapt your strategy accordingly.

Post-Strike Rewards

• Gear and Loot: Completing a Strike rewards you with gear, engrams, and Vanguard tokens. These can be used to increase your Power Level and acquire new equipment.
• Nightfall Strikes: For a greater challenge and better rewards, try Nightfall Strikes, which are harder versions with more lucrative loot.

Conclusion

Vanguard Strikes are a great way to experience Destiny 2’s cooperative PvE content. They offer an excellent opportunity to hone combat skills, understand team dynamics, and earn valuable gear. As you grow more comfortable with these missions, try experimenting with different loadouts and strategies to enhance your experience. Remember, the key to success in Strikes is teamwork, adaptability, and understanding the unique challenges each Strike presents.

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If I had a Switch I most certainly would still play it at times.  I tried emulators, but they never performed well for me.

Unleash the power of crowd control with the Stasis Turret Warlock build, designed to freeze and dominate the battlefield in Destiny 2. This build offers exceptional team support through the strategic freezing of enemies, including champions.

Build Overview

The Stasis Turret Warlock thrives in team combat, excelling in crowd control by freezing enemies across the map. It's not focused on raw DPS or high survivability; instead, it utilizes stasis turrets for control and indirect damage. Osmiomancy Gloves are a key component at higher levels for maximizing this build's effectiveness.

Subclass and Abilities

Subclass: Stasis Subclass

• Super Ability: Winter’s Wrath
• Class Ability: Healing Rift or Empowering Rift
• Movement Ability: Personal Preference
• Melee Ability: Personal Preference
• Grenade Ability: Coldsnap Grenade (enhanced with Osmiomancy Gloves for dual usage and turret creation)

Aspects

• Bleak Watcher: Enables the creation of stasis turrets for area control.
• Iceflare Bolts: Adds additional freezing effects, augmenting crowd control.

Fragments

• Whisper of Refraction: Boosts ability regeneration upon defeating frozen targets.
• Whisper of Durance: Extends the duration of applied slows and certain abilities.
• Whisper of Chains: Offers damage resistance near frozen enemies or friendly crystals.
• Whisper of Torment: Grenade energy gain upon taking damage.
• Whisper of Shards: Increased grenade regeneration rate when shattering stasis crystals, a good alternative to Torment when using Headstone.

Armor and Mods

• Osmiomancy Gloves: Enhance Coldsnap grenades with an additional charge and extended range.

Weapons

• Preferred Perks: Demolitionist (for grenade energy) and Headstone (for creating more shards).
• Verglas Curve: An exotic bow with stasis arrows, ideal for extending your control beyond turret range and creating additional freezing crystals.

Stat Priorities

• Primary Goal: Maximize Discipline for constant turret uptime.
• Secondary Goals: Focus on Resilience and Recovery for survivability.
• Consideration: While turrets handle most combat and it may be tempting to drop survivability, maintaining survivability is crucial as enemies still target the player.

Playstyle and Strategy

• Position yourself strategically to maximize turret coverage and control.
• Prioritize staying alive; your ability to deploy turrets is vital for team success.
• Be flexible in your role, shifting between support and DPS according to team needs.

Alternatives and Variations

Team-Oriented Adjustments: Tailor your grenade choices and overall strategy to complement your team's composition and tactical requirements.

Conclusion

The Stasis Turret Warlock build offers a unique approach to support in Destiny 2, excelling in crowd control and area denial, particularly in end-game content. While highly effective in coordinated teams, its performance may vary in smaller groups. Adaptability in gear and abilities is key to maximizing the effectiveness of this build.

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This build is designed to support your team with robust healing capabilities and even provide damage boosts, making it versatile for various Destiny 2 activities.

Build Overview

The Solar Healing Warlock build in Destiny 2 harnesses the power of healing and support to bolster team performance, particularly in larger team settings. At its core, the build utilizes Healing Rifts and Healing Grenades for basic team healing. The addition of Boots of the Assembler elevates this by sending Noble Seekers to actively heal or boost damage for fireteam members, expanding the Warlock's healing reach. Complementing this is the Lumina Hand Cannon, which allows shooting healing and damage-boosting rounds at allies. This combination of abilities and gear makes the Solar Healing Warlock a vital component in challenging content, offering substantial healing and support to ensure team success.

Note: Boots of the Assembler only target fireteam members. This means that your seekers will not target public players in the open world or public events.  It will target your matchmade or created fireteam members.

Subclass and Abilities

Subclass: Dawnblade (Warlock's Solar Subclass)

• Super Ability: Well of Radiance
• Class Ability: Healing Rift (Empowering Rift as an alternative)
• Movement Ability: Personal Preference
• Melee Ability: Personal Preference
• Grenade Ability: Healing Grenade (optimal for healing); Solar, Firebolt, and Fusion Grenades are viable for added DPS and ability regeneration and also pair with Touch of Flame.

Aspects

• Heat Rises: Converts grenade energy into a burst of healing.
• Touch of Flame: Enhances some grenade types (including Healing), synergizing well with Heat Rises for consuming the healing grenade.

Fragments

• Ember of Benevolence: Accelerates ability regeneration when healing or boosting allies.
• Ember of Singeing: Recharges your rift by scorching targets.
• Ember of Char: Spreads scorch, complementing Singeing.
• Ember of Torches: Radiant boosts to allies through melee ability use. Will cancel out with Lumina's damage boost.
• Ember of Wonder: A good alternative for Lumina users, offering ability regen from Orbs.

Armor and Mods

• Boots of the Assembler: Enhances rifts with Noble Seekers for extended healing or damage boosting. Ideal for players who prefer to heal from a distance.

Weapons

• Lumina: Enhances healing capabilities with Noble Rounds, suitable for a supportive playstyle.
• Edge of Intent: A Glaive providing a healing turret, though it requires careful energy management.
• MIDA Multi-Tool: While not directly affecting healing, this scout rifle provides support players with radar while ADS, which can be significant for situational awareness and callouts.

Stat Priorities

• Primary Goal: Maximize Recovery for consistent healing and ability uptime, since you cannot support if downed.
• Secondary Goals: High Resilience for survivability and Discipline for grenade recharge.
• Consideration: While some may opt to deprioritize Recovery due to the build's inherent healing abilities, it's recommended to test this approach before fully committing.

Playstyle and Strategy

• Maintain a rearward position, ensuring your Noble Seekers can effectively reach teammates.
• Focus on staying alive; your healing and boosting abilities are crucial for team support.
• Be adaptable in your approach, balancing between healing and DPS as the team's needs shift.

Alternatives and Variations

• Grenade Focus: Use Verity's Brow for enhanced grenade support.
• Adapt to Team Needs: Modify grenade types and strategies based on team composition and requirements.

Conclusion
The Solar Healing Warlock is a formidable support build, particularly effective in larger team settings. Its adaptability can be a game-changer, though it may face challenges in smaller groups or with less coordinated teams. Flexibility in gear and ability choices is key to maximizing the build's potential and enjoying the gameplay.

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Modern Warfare 3 (2023) Zombies introduces unique storytelling and challenging missions across its gameplay. The Freezer Burn mission, set in the eerie landscape of Urzikstan, is a prime example of this. This guide will help you navigate through the mission's objectives, focusing on the use of the Cryo Freeze ammo mod to successfully complete the Act 1 tier 3 mission.

Mission Overview

In the Freezer Burn mission, players face the task of utilizing a special ammo modification - Cryo Freeze. This ammo is key to achieving the mission's goals, which involve slowing down and eliminating zombies and hellhounds.

Objectives of the Freezer Burn Mission

• Slow 50 Zombies: Using Cryo Freeze ammo, players must slow down 50 zombies. 
• Slow 10 Hellhounds: Similarly, 10 hellhounds must be slowed using the same ammo mod.

The Cryo Freeze ammo temporarily freezes these enemies, making them easier to kill.

Rewards

Upon completion, players are rewarded with a Baseball Fan Calling Card and 1500 points of experience (XP).

Acquiring Cryo Freeze Ammo Mod

• Aether Nest: Locate a nearby Aether Nest and clear it by targeting the yellow glowing eyes. Rewards from chests in the cleared area will usually contain at least one type of ammo mod, potentially including Cryo Freeze.
• Contracts: Generally harder than an Aether Nest (although cargo missions are quite easy), these can also drop ammo mods as random loot.
• Crafting or Rewards: The Cryo Freeze ammo mod can either be crafted using schematics or obtained as a reward for completing the "Take Up Arms" mission in Act 1.
• Elemental Pop Machines: If you've already used your Cryo Freeze ammo, another method is to purchase a random ammo type from Elemental Pop Machines for 2000 points. This randomly applies an ammo effect your shots, it can be quite a grind using this method alone.

Freezing Hellhounds

Hellhounds in the Freezer Burn mission of MW3 Zombies present a unique challenge. They are not only difficult to find but also to effectively freeze with the Cryo Freeze ammo. Here are some strategies to increase your success rate in slowing down these swift and dangerous foes.

• Use Low-Damage, Short-Range Weapons: Opt for guns with lower per-shot damage and shorter range, such as pistols. These weapons allow you to fire more shots at a hellhound before it reaches you, thereby increasing the chances of activating the Cryo Freeze effect.
• Engage from a Distance: Maintain a safe distance when engaging hellhounds. This tactic gives you more time to shoot and freeze them before they can close the gap and inflict damage.
• Aim for the body: Try your best to avoid killing the hound in a single headshot, single shot kills do not count towards ammo effects.

Level 2 Hellhounds

• Consider Advancing to Level 2: If you find the hellhounds in the initial area too elusive or easy to kill, you might want to push into Level 2. The hellhounds here are hardier, providing more opportunities to hit them with the Cryo Freeze ammo.
• Drive Around the Map: Utilize vehicles to navigate the map safely. Only exit the vehicle when you spot hellhounds to engage them. This strategy keeps you mobile and reduces the risk of being overwhelmed by other zombies.
• Be Prepared for Higher Damage: Be aware that Level 2 zombies, including hellhounds, inflict more damage. Stay vigilant and keep your health in check.

Strategy Tips

• Balancing Act: Focus on balancing your attack between zombies and hellhounds. Prioritize slowing them down before aiming for kills.
• Use of Environment: Utilize the terrain of Urzikstan to funnel enemies into manageable groups.
• Resource Management: Conserve your Cryo Freeze ammo by aiming accurately and only using it when necessary.
• Team Coordination: If playing in a team, coordinate your efforts to cover more ground and protect each other while targeting zombies and hellhounds.

Conclusion

The Freezer Burn mission in MW3 Zombies offers a thrilling challenge that tests your combat skills and strategic thinking. By securing and effectively using the Cryo Freeze ammo mod, you can successfully complete the mission and earn valuable rewards. Remember to adapt your strategies to the evolving situations and work efficiently to slow down and eliminate the required number of zombies and hellhounds.

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In the world of online gaming, matchmaking systems play a crucial role in shaping player experience. In Call of Duty, a new term has emerged alongside the well-known Skill-Based Matchmaking (SBMM) – Engagement Optimised Matchmaking (EOMM). While SBMM focuses on matching players of similar skill levels, EOMM is speculated to be a more nuanced, engagement-driven approach, though its existence in "Call of Duty" remains unconfirmed and speculative.

EOMM stands for Engagement Optimised Matchmaking, a theoretical algorithm-driven system designed to enhance player engagement. The core idea is that EOMM doesn't just match players based on skill but also tailors the gaming experience based on individual preferences and behaviors to keep players engaged for longer periods.

How Does EOMM Work?

The hypothesis around EOMM suggests that it monitors player performance and adjusts their matchmaking experience accordingly. For instance, if a player is consistently performing poorly and nearing a point of frustration, EOMM might place them in a game with less skilled opponents, giving them a better chance of winning and experiencing a sense of accomplishment. This boost could re-engage the player, motivating them to continue playing.

This cycle of challenge and reward, as theorized, is a continuous process. After experiencing success, a player might be placed back into more challenging matches, keeping the gameplay experience varied and engaging. The aim is to strike a balance between difficulty and enjoyment, preventing players from feeling either overwhelmed or bored.

EOMM: A Conspiracy Theory?

There are more extreme claims about EOMM affecting various aspects of gameplay, like hit registration, health regeneration, and even aim assist. These theories suggest that EOMM could make subtle adjustments to give players a temporary advantage, enhancing their gameplay experience. For instance, if a player struggles with aiming, EOMM might temporarily increase aim assist, creating a false sense of improvement and encouraging continued play. However, these are unconfirmed speculations and should be treated as such.

The discussion around EOMM in Call of Duty is rife with conjecture and unverified claims. While the idea of a system designed to enhance player engagement isn't far-fetched, given the industry's focus on player retention, there is no concrete evidence to confirm its existence in "Call of Duty." Players and community members often debate this topic, using personal experiences and perceived game mechanics to support their arguments.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while the existence of EOMM in Call of Duty is a matter of debate and speculation, understanding the concept is crucial for players who are keen on dissecting the game's matchmaking mechanics. Whether real or not, the discussion around EOMM highlights the gaming community's interest in how matchmaking systems can affect the gaming experience. For now, it remains part of the larger conversation about how game developers balance skill, challenge, and engagement to create compelling gaming experiences.

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Starfield, Bethesda's expansive space RPG, offers a plethora of factions for players to join. These factions are not just an addition to the game's universe; they provide unique quests and influence your status within the game's galaxy. While it's not essential to join factions to progress through the main storyline, they add depth and richness to the player's experience with distinct narratives and challenges.

Traditional Faction Dynamics in Bethesda Games

In previous Bethesda titles, joining factions often meant making hard choices. Major factions frequently had conflicting interests, forcing players to align with one while forsaking others. This dynamic led to a playthrough where some content was inaccessible based on the player's choices. With this history in mind, players of Starfield are curious: does this game follow the same pattern?

Faction Joining Mechanics in Starfield

Starfield breaks the mold set by its predecessors. In this game, players have the liberty to join any faction they wish, at any point in their journey, without repercussions from other factions. This freedom allows for a more exploratory and less restrictive gameplay experience. However, there is a notable exception with the Crimson Fleet and UC SysDef – choosing one locks out the storyline of the other.

Factions Coexistence

Unlike in some previous Bethesda games, the major factions in Starfield mostly coexist without direct conflict or war. While the game's lore includes past conflicts, the current in-game narrative focuses more on internal factional issues rather than inter-factional hostility. This approach shifts the storytelling from external conflict to more nuanced, internal struggles within each faction.

Major Factions in Starfield

Starfield features five primary factions, each offering a full-fledged storyline and unique locations:

• Constellation: Explorers at the heart of the game's narrative, focusing on uncovering the galaxy's mysteries.
• The Crimson Fleet: A notorious group with a more antagonistic approach, contrasting with other factions
• The Freestar Rangers: Known for their pursuit of freedom and justice in the galaxy.
• Ryujin Industries: A corporate entity with a focus on technology and innovation.
• The UC Vanguard: A powerful military force with a significant influence over galactic affairs.

Conclusion

In summary, "Starfield" offers a significant departure from the faction dynamics seen in previous Bethesda games. The ability to join multiple factions without locking out others (with the exception of the Crimson Fleet and UC SysDef) provides players with a rich, varied experience where they can delve into the intricacies of each faction. This open-ended approach to faction allegiance enriches the player's journey through the game's vast galaxy, making each playthrough unique and filled with diverse experiences.

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In Starfield, companions are more than just allies; they're crucial for your journey across the vast Settled Systems. With at least 20 named companions available, this guide will provide a detailed roadmap to recruiting each one, ensuring you're never alone in your space odyssey.

Constellation Companions: Your Core Team

Joining Process: Automatically join through progression in the Constellation faction.

Recruits

• Andreja: Found during the "Into The Unknown" quest. She excels in stealth and weapon systems, making her ideal for covert operations.
• Barrett: The first Constellation member you meet. Rescue him from pirates to recruit. His expertise lies in Starship Engineering and Robotics, crucial for ship maintenance and battles.
• Sam Coe: An ex-Freestar Ranger, recruitable at The Lodge. His background offers skills like Piloting and Geology, great for exploration and combat.
• Sarah Morgan: As the leader of Constellation, she joins your crew after reaching The Lodge. Her skills in Astrodynamics and Lasers are vital for navigation and combat.
• Vasco: Barrett's robot companion. Joins after meeting Barrett, with skills in Aneutronic Fusion and Shield Systems, enhancing your ship's defenses.

Hireable Companions: Specialists for Hire

How to Hire: Found in various bars, these companions require Credits for their services. Persuasion can reduce hiring costs.

Recruits

• Andromeda Kepler: Located at The Broken Spear on Cydonia. Her Outpost Engineering and Piloting skills are invaluable for outpost construction and navigation.
• Dani Garcia: A researcher in Euphorika, Neon. Her expertise in Chemistry and Robotics enhances your ability to handle complex scientific challenges.
• Gideon Aker: Found in The Viewport, New Atlantis. Specializes in Ballistic and Missile Weapons Systems, crucial for heavy combat situations.
• Jessamine Griffin: A Crimson Fleet member in The Last Nova, The Key. Skilled in Theft and Ballistics Weapons Systems, perfect for aggressive encounters.
• Omari Hassan: From the Freestar Collective in The Hitching Post, Akila City. His Shield Systems and Starship Engineering skills are great for enhancing your ship's capabilities.
• Marika Boros: In The Viewport, New Atlantis. Specializes in Shotgun Certification, Ballistics, and Particle Beam Weapon Systems.
• Mickey Caviar: Found in The Astral Lounge in Neon. Skills include Gastronomy, Wellness, and Incapacitation.
• Rosie Tannehill: Another member from Freestar Collective in The Hitching Post, Akila City. Her skills are in Medicine and Wellness.
• Simeon Bankowski: At The Viewport, New Atlantis. His skills are in Sharpshooting, Sniper Certification, and Marksmanship.
• Sophia Grace: A member of The Disciples in Madam Sauvage's, Neon. Specializes in Stealth and Lasers.

Recruitable Companions: Unique Allies

Recruitment Criteria: Specific missions or conditions must be met for these companions to join.

Recruits

• Adoring Fan: Available for players with the Hero Worshipped Trait, found in New Atlantis. His skills in Scavenging and Concealment are great for stealth missions.
• Amelia Earhart: Located on Charybdis III after completing Operation Starseed. A legendary figure with unparalleled piloting skills.
• Heller: Saved during Barrett's rescue mission. Specializes in Geology, ideal for mining and resource gathering.
• Lin: Leads the initial mining operation, recruitable upon return. Her skills in Demolition and Outpost Management are key for outpost development.
• Rafael Aguerro: Found in Nishina Research Lab, Freya III. His expertise in Outpost Engineering and Management makes him an asset for any outpost.

Randomized Companions: The Wildcards

Finding Them: Randomly generated companions are available in bars across the Settled Systems.
Specialization Examples:

• Defense Systems Specialist: Focuses solely on improving your ship's defense systems.
• Missile Weapons Specialist: Expert in enhancing and managing missile weapons systems.
• Payload Specialist: Specializes in managing and optimizing payloads for various missions.
• Propulsion Specialist: Focuses on improving and maintaining your ship's propulsion systems.

Common Questions

• Can't find a specific companion? Each companion has a unique location and set of requirements. Explore different areas and complete various quests to encounter them.
• How to best utilize companions? Assign companions based on their skills and your current needs, whether it's ship management, combat, or exploration.

Conclusion

Recruiting the right companions in "Starfield" is essential for a fulfilling and successful journey. Each companion brings a unique set of skills and personality to your crew, enhancing your exploration and combat capabilities. Use this guide to find and recruit the best companions the galaxy has to offer and embark on an unforgettable adventure through the Settled Systems.

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