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The Division 2 Tidal Basin Update Coming April 5
The Division 2 will add its first big late-game world event this week, with the Tidal Basin update. The new area will open on April 5 as a free update to all players, but it’s not for rookie agents. You’ll need a high-level character to take on the new challenges.
If you have a Tier 4 agent with at least 450 gear score, you’ll unlock a new set of challenges in Tidal Basin. It will also open up the ability to reach Tier 5, and you’ll be able to take down a new Black Tusk stronghold.
This is the first big update for Ubisoft’s open-world shooter. Other plans include Operation Dark Hours, the first eight-person raid, and a story episode called D.C. Outskirts: Expeditions slated for the summer. Similar story episodes are planned for fall and winter.
Each of these additions are free for all players, so if you own the game you’re already in. Ubisoft is also selling a Year One Pass for the game, which gives you seven-day early access to all of the episodes, along with instant access to any new specializations. Plus, pass holders get eight Classified Assignments and some exclusive cosmetic items. You can purchase that for $40. A separate in-game apparel store sells individual cosmetics as well.
“The range of enemy types continues to keep combat encounters challenging, the equipment I earn and pick up continues to feel different, valuable, and asks me to consider new ways of play,” Edmond Tran wrote in GameSpot’s review. “The ravaged environments continue to intrigue, and sometimes they’re so stunning I find myself needing to take screenshots before I move on. It might not have much to say, but The Division 2 is a perpetual cycle of tension, relief, and reward that’s difficult to stay away from.”
from GameSpot – Game News https://www.gamespot.com/articles/the-division-2-tidal-basin-update-coming-april-5/1100-6466018/
New Nintendo Switch Controller Builds In Voice Chat
A third-party controller for the Nintendo Switch promises to bring one of the most requested features to the platform: easy in-game voice chat. PDP’s Faceoff Deluxe+ wired controller is slated for launch this summer, and it boasts the first controller to use a separate chat functionality.
The Faceoff Deluxe+ uses the audio SDK developed by Vivox, the studio behind Fortnite‘s in-game chat. It offers a 3.5mm audio jack and built-in audio controls, which will let you plug in a standard headset and chat normally, without going through Nintendo’s awkward mobile chat app.
The controller also features interchangeable face plates and two programmable buttons, like the previous Faceoff Deluxe controllers. Pre-orders will begin in May. According to the company blog, it will cost $25 and come in Red Camo and Purple Camo at launch.
Last year, outgoing Nintendo of America president Reggie Fils-Aime defended the company’s decision to tie its voice chat to mobile devices, claiming it’s easier for consumers because your phone is “always with you.” He also pointed out that Nintendo tends to make unconventional choices for features like online play.
Nintendo Switch Online is another component of its current online offerings, which enables online multiplayer for select games and includes a selection of free NES titles every month, sometimes with special save states. The April offerings include Punch-Out!!, Super Mario Bros. The Lost Levels, and Star Soldier. If you’re not a member, you can get it included with a Twitch Prime subscription.
from GameSpot – Game News https://www.gamespot.com/articles/new-nintendo-switch-controller-builds-in-voice-cha/1100-6466012/
Pokemon Go: Shiny Scyther Now Available In New Bug Pokemon Event
A new in-game event is now underway in Pokemon Go. Coinciding with the debut of Giratina Origin Forme, Niantic has kicked off the game’s first Bug Out, a week-long event featuring increased Bug Pokemon spawns and other bonuses–including a new Shiny Pokemon.
From now until April 9, Bug-types such as Scyther, Paras, Wurmple, and Yanma will appear in the wild more frequently than normal. Not only that, but players will have their first chance to encounter a Shiny Scyther during the event, and Bug Pokemon like Shuckle and Ninjask will appear as Raid bosses.
In addition to increased Bug Pokemon spawns, Incenses will last twice as long as they normally do during the Bug Out event, and they’ll attract more Pokemon than usual. Players will also be able to obtain special Field Research tasks focusing on Bug Pokemon from Poke Stops. You can read more details about the event on the Pokemon Go website.
Beyond the Bug Out event, Pokemon Go players now have their first chance to capture Giratina in its Origin Forme, the serpentine appearance it takes in Pokemon Platinum. This variant of the Legendary Pokemon will appear in Raid Battles until April 29 and has more offensive stats than its Altered Forme. You can find tips on how to catch Giratina here.
Shortly after the Bug Out event end, Niantic will host Pokemon Go’s next Community Day. This month’s event is scheduled to take place from 3-6 PM local time on Saturday, April 13. During those hours, players will have an easier time finding the rare Dragon Pokemon Bagon. Also happening this month is Niantic’s second annual Earth Day campaign. If enough players participate in their local cleanup events, the developer will add Shiny Diglett to Pokemon Go as a reward.
from GameSpot – Game News https://www.gamespot.com/articles/pokemon-go-shiny-scyther-now-available-in-new-bug-/1100-6465993/