2XKO Playtest Announced for April 2025! Massive Gameplay Overhaul & Jinx Revealed!

 

I'm so excited to jump back into the action (or experience it for the first time)! The highly anticipated 2v2 assist-based fighting game developers, 2XKO (formerly Project L), have dropped a bombshell of information in their latest development update video. They unveiled significant overhauls to the core gameplay based on community feedback and announced the next public playtest, Alpha Lab 2, and revealed the electrifying addition of Jinx from League of Legends to the champion roster!

For those eager to get their hands on the game, mark your calendars! Alpha Lab 2 will run from April 18th to April 20th, 2025. This is your chance to experience the refined gameplay and potentially try out some of the new mechanics and even the newest champion.

Here are the key details you need to know about the upcoming playtest:

• Dates: Friday, April 18th - Sunday, April 20th, 2025
• Platforms: Windows PC, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X|S
• Regions: United States, Canada, and Brazil

The developers emphasized that Alpha Lab 2 will be a smaller-scale test compared to their initial plans. This decision was made to allow them to focus on the crucial "mountain of surrounding work" needed for a full launch, such as backend servers, matchmaking improvements, localization, and UI enhancements. They are still planning a larger playtest closer to the actual release.

But the update wasn't just about the playtest! Here's a breakdown of the major gameplay changes you can expect to see (and potentially test in April). You can find the full YouTube update here:

• Simplified and Consolidated Controls:

  • Launchers & Anti-Airs: Down-heavy is now the universal launcher with anti-air properties.
  • Overheads: Standardized to down-forward medium.
  • Sweeps: Standardized to down-forward heavy.
  • Assists: Team button for forward assist, back + team for back assist.
  • Tag Launcher: Down + team.
  • Charge/Running Assists: Removed (except for the "Sidekick" fuse).

• Super Input Overhaul: Supers (S1 & S2) now use any normal button + special button, replacing the down-down input for easier execution. Ultimates (S1 + S2) now cost three super bars.

• "Happy Birthday" Fixes: Reduced global hit pause and adjusted counter-hit hit pause to prevent combo drops when hitting both opponents. Assists now enter after the point character's hit.

• Parry Improvement: No more accidental follow-up parries after a successful physical parry.

• New "Fuses" - Game-Changing Mechanics:

  • Pulse: Toggleable in character select for easy combo and super execution via mashing.
  • Sidekick: Focus on support play. Point character doesn't switch, assist can perform charge assists and tandem supers. Point character gets health/defense boosts at low health. Assist can use "combo softener" to reduce incoming damage.
  • Juggernaut: Solo champion focus. Starts with two meters, health/defense boosts at low health, self Double Downs (super into super/ultimate) possible, and a unique "eject" mechanic to force out the opponent's point character.

• Combo Evolution:

  • Limit Strike: Bonus effects (damage, meter) for ending combos with specific reactions.
  • Meter & Damage Decoupling: Meter gain is now independent of damage, allowing for strategic combo choices.

• Enhanced Defensive Options: More knockdown recovery options (forward/back rolls), get-up attacks now break armor.

• Assist Speed Adjustment: Slightly reduced call-in speed for more counterplay.

• Push Block Rework: No longer costs meter, activated by pressing the team button while blocking (or push assist by the actual assist character).

• Air Tech Improvement: Automatic air tech with the option to hold down to escape juggles.

• OTG (Off-the-Ground) Update: Weak OTG hits now grant standard knockdown options.

• "Dead Assist" Mechanic: KO'd characters can still perform assists and super assists (with a cooldown).

• Super Jump Variations: Hold forward, back, or down during a super jump to slightly alter trajectory.

• Visual Clarity Enhancements: Increased character collision size, centralized assist cooldown timer, slowed down wall bounce animations.

Finally, the reveal of Jinx from League of Legends sent waves of excitement through the community. Known for her chaotic energy and arsenal of unique weapons, Jinx's inclusion promises to bring a dynamic and unpredictable playstyle to 2XKO. While her specific moveset wasn't detailed, her presence alone adds significant hype.

This 2XKO development update is packed with information that players have been eagerly awaiting. The announcement of the Alpha Lab 2 dates and the reveal of Jinx are major highlights, coupled with the substantial gameplay refinements based on community feedback and I cant wait to play it!!!

Overwatch 2 Teases Transformers Crossover Event and New Comic Release

Blizzard Entertainment is gearing up for another exciting crossover in Overwatch 2, this time teaming up with the iconic Transformers franchise. The much-anticipated Transformers crossover will officially launch on July 9, introducing new skins inspired by fan-favorite Transformers characters. This event will mark the culmination of the current season and the beginning of the Summer Games 2024. Here’s everything you need to know about the upcoming crossover and what to expect from Season 11.

Transformers Crossover Event Details

Blizzard released a new comic strip on July 6 that teases four unique Transformers-themed skins. The comic hints at a Megatron-themed skin for Ramattra, sparking excitement among players. The skins are inspired by classic Transformers characters, including Megatron, Optimus Prime, Arcee, and Bumblebee. However, the comic leaves fans guessing which Overwatch 2 heroes will receive the remaining skins.

The Transformers crossover will coincide with the launch of the Summer Games 2024, adding a festive touch to the event. Players can look forward to earning rewards and diving into the new content starting July 9. For a sneak peek, check out the official PlayOverwatch tweet here.

Season 11 Content and Updates

Season 11 of Overwatch 2, which launched on June 20, brought a slew of updates, including new maps and hero balance adjustments. The season introduced a limited-time celebration where players can earn rewards by participating in matches, such as the Aztec Sombra skin. Additionally, Blizzard reintroduced the Pink Mercy skin, with all proceeds directed towards breast cancer research, showing the company's ongoing commitment to charitable causes.

Despite the excitement surrounding the Transformers crossover, some players have expressed a sense of missed potential. With several heroes receiving Power Rangers-esque skins in this season's battle pass, many fans wonder why the latest crossover is with Transformers instead of Power Rangers. Nevertheless, the new season and the crossover event promise to keep the community engaged and entertained.

Community Reactions and Speculations

The Overwatch 2 community is abuzz with speculation about the upcoming skins. The teaser comic confirmed the Megatron skin for Ramattra, but fans are eager to see which heroes will don the skins inspired by Optimus Prime, Arcee, and Bumblebee. The community is actively discussing and guessing which hero will best suit each skin.

In another interesting development, a fan recently noticed a small detail in the new Ultrawatch skin for the hero Cassidy. Instead of his usual cigar, the skin features a design that resembles a shotgun shell. This quirky addition has sparked speculative and humorous discussions among players, with some comparing the red and gold cigar to a battery.

EA SPORTS FC25 RELEASE DATE

 

EA Sports FC 25 Release Date and Editions Leaked: What to Expect

The highly anticipated EA Sports FC 25, the second installment under the EA Sports FC brand, is set to launch on September 27, 2024. This news, leaked by Dealabs and further corroborated by PlayStation Game Size on Twitter, reveals exciting details about the upcoming football game, including its release date, editions, and pricing.

A New Era for EA Sports FC

Last year marked a significant shift for EA Sports as they rebranded their iconic FIFA series to EA Sports FC, following the end of their licensing arrangement with FIFA. The first game under this new banner, FC 24, introduced several new features, including the addition of Frauen-Bundesliga and Liga F, expanding its women's football leagues.

Despite the name change, FC 24 struggled to match the success of its predecessor, FIFA 23. However, the developers at EA Sports are eager to build on the new foundation they’ve established, aiming to deliver a superior experience with FC 25.

According to the leak, EA Sports FC 25 will be available in two editions: Standard and Ultimate. The Standard Edition is priced at $69.99, while the Ultimate Edition comes in at $99.99. One of the highlights of the Ultimate Edition is early access, allowing players to start their FC 25 journey on September 20, a full week before the official release. Additionally, EA Play subscribers will have access to a 10-hour trial during this early access period.

Platform Availability

The game is set to be available across multiple platforms, including last-gen consoles like the PS4 and Xbox One. This move ensures that players who haven't upgraded to the latest consoles can still enjoy the new release. Here’s a quick rundown of the platforms:

• PC
• PlayStation 5
• PlayStation 4
• Xbox Series X/S
• Xbox One

What’s New in FC 25?

While specific gameplay details for FC 25 are still under wraps, fans can expect the usual annual updates, such as:

• Updated Squads: Reflecting the latest transfers and team changes.
• New Kits: The latest designs for all teams.
• Enhanced Gameplay: Tweaks and improvements based on community feedback and internal testing.

Official Announcement Imminent?

The leak also hints at an imminent official announcement from EA Sports. Historically, leaks of this nature have been followed closely by official reveals, so fans should keep an eye out for EA’s formal announcement within the next few days.

ZZZ hits 50 million downloads already🤯

 

Zenless Zone Zero Celebrates 50 Million Downloads with Special Thank-You Gift

In a remarkable achievement, Zenless Zone Zero, the latest action RPG from HoYoverse, has surpassed 50 million downloads worldwide. To mark this milestone, HoYoverse has announced a special thank-you gift for all players, showing appreciation for the community's incredible support.

Thank-You Gift Details

All eligible players will receive a generous gift of Polychrome ×1,600, issued via in-game mail within the next 24 hours. This gesture aims to thank players for their dedication and enthusiasm, which have brought the game's setting, New Eridu, to life.

Eligibility: Players who reach Inter-Knot Level 1 or above before the release of Version 1.1 are eligible to receive this gift.

Developer's Message

The development team expressed their gratitude to the community, acknowledging that while the game has made significant strides, there is always room for improvement. They are committed to enhancing the gaming experience and actively seek feedback and suggestions from the community through official channels.

Future Updates and Optimizations

HoYoverse is dedicated to continuous improvement, planning to optimize game performance and other aspects based on player feedback. They are also developing a cloud gaming version of Zenless Zone Zero to allow for a more versatile gaming experience.

How to Provide Feedback

The team encourages players to share their feedback through in-game channels or by contacting customer service. Here's how:

In-Game Feedback:

1. Press the menu button in the upper-left corner of the City interface (PC users can press the ESC button).
2. Navigate to "More" > "Feedback" to enter the service center.
3. Press the "Issue Feedback" button in the "Self-Service" section to submit feedback, including images and videos if necessary.

Customer Service Contact:

• Email: zzzcs_en@hoyoverse.com

HoYoverse has pledged to update the community with regular progress reports and optimizations, ensuring every player can create wonderful memories in New Eridu.

You can view the original post on Twitter (X) for more details.

Stay tuned for more updates and happy gaming!

Zenless Zone Zero: The Next Big Hit from HoYoverse

Zenless Zone Zero: The Next Big Hit from HoYoverse

Zenless Zone Zero, the highly anticipated free-to-play action role-playing game developed and published by miHoYo (globally known as HoYoverse), is set to launch on July 4, 2024. The game will be available on Windows, iOS, Android, and PlayStation 5, promising a thrilling addition to the HoYoverse lineup, including Genshin Impact and Honkai: Star Rail.

Gameplay Overview

In Zenless Zone Zero, players step into the shoes of a Proxy, either Wise or Belle, who guides others through dangerous alternate dimensions known as Hollows. The Proxies recruit new members to their party, facing off against the Ethereal and other formidable foes. Players can enhance their combat strategies by combining the unique abilities of Proxies and their assistants, Bangboo, to unleash powerful attacks and combos.

One of the game’s unique features is its in-game clock system, which divides the day into morning, afternoon, night, and late night, adding depth to the gameplay experience.

Setting

The game is set in a post-apocalyptic futuristic city called New Eridu, a sanctuary for survivors after Ethereal entities invaded the human world through portals known as Hollows. These invaders devastated much of humanity, but the resilient inhabitants of New Eridu have fought back by harnessing the Ethereal's technology and resources, creating a stronghold against the chaos.

Development and Testing

Zenless Zone Zero was first revealed by HoYoverse in May 2022. Since then, the game has undergone several closed beta tests, referred to as "Tuning Tests," "Equalizing Tests," and "Amplifying Tests," to refine gameplay and gather player feedback. A PlayStation 5 port was also announced during PlayStation's State of Play presentation, with a technical test conducted in April 2024. The official release date was finally unveiled in late May 2024, heightening anticipation among fans.

Launch Details

Zenless Zone Zero is scheduled to launch globally on July 4, 2024, at 10 a.m. (UTC+8), which translates to 7 p.m. PT and 10 p.m. ET on July 3 for those in the United States. Players can download the game on their preferred platforms ahead of time to ensure they are ready to dive in as soon as the servers go live.

How to Prepare for Launch

PC:

• Download the game from HoYoPlay, HoYoverse's game launcher.
• Follow the installation instructions and download the necessary assets.
• Ensure you have a HoYoverse account.

PlayStation 5:

• Pre-order the Zenless Zone Zero bundle from the PlayStation Store for $10, which includes exclusive in-game items and currency.
• Pre-download the game from your Library under Purchased items.

Android:

• Download the game from the Google Play Store.
• Sign in with or create a HoYoverse account to download the assets.

iOS:

• Download the game from the Apple App Store.
• Log into or create a HoYoverse account to download the assets.

With 50 million players already pre-registered, Zenless Zone Zero is poised to be another blockbuster hit for HoYoverse. Fans of their previous titles can look forward to an exciting new adventure in this action-packed RPG.

For more information and updates, visit the official Zenless Zone Zero website.

Prepare for an epic journey in the world of New Eridu and get ready to face the Ethereal threat head-on!

Happy gaming!

Fortnite Update: Magneto Joins the Battle Royale

 

Fortnite Update: Magneto Joins the Battle Royale

Epic Games has just rolled out a thrilling new update for Fortnite, adding the iconic Marvel character Magneto to the game. Alongside Magneto, players can enjoy a new Mythic weapon and some exciting map changes. Here’s everything you need to know about the latest update.

Magneto Skin and Questline

Magneto is now a bonus skin in the Fortnite Chapter 5 Season 3 Battle Pass. However, unlike other skins, he wasn’t available right away. Players can unlock Magneto starting from July 2 by completing an exclusive questline. This questline will be available until the end of the season, scheduled for August 16, giving you plenty of time to add this legendary character to your locker.

In addition to the Magneto skin, completing the questline will unlock several other cosmetics, including an additional style for Magneto. This is a great opportunity for Marvel fans to add a unique character to their collection.

Magneto’s Mythic Gauntlets

The update also introduces Magneto’s Mythic Gauntlets, a powerful new item that players can find in supply drops and chests. These gauntlets, first teased in the Season 3 trailer, offer unique abilities that will surely change the dynamics of the game. However, it's important to note that the Mythic item is not available in competitive modes, so players will have to enjoy its benefits in casual play.

Map Changes

Epic Games has added some notable changes to the map with this update. The Metallica collaboration has come to an end, and the Ride the Lightning item is no longer available. In its place, players can now explore the newly added X-Men Bunker, located south of Grand Glacier. This new area hints at more X-Men-themed content coming soon, possibly including a new Wolverine skin in the near future.

What’s Next?

Epic Games is currently on a summer break, so no major updates are expected over the next three weeks. However, fans can look forward to the Fortnite x Pirates of the Caribbean collaboration, which will be released on July 19. There may also be another smaller content update in the meantime, but this hasn't been confirmed yet.

Stay Updated

For more details on the latest Fortnite updates and upcoming content, keep an eye on the official Fortnite channels. And if you’re eager to unlock Magneto and his Mythic Gauntlets, start completing those quests and make the most of this exciting new addition to the game!

Keep your gaming experience fresh and exciting by staying informed about all the latest changes and updates in Fortnite. Happy gaming!

For further information, check out the detailed update on the official Fortnite website.

APEX LEGENDS DOUBLE TAKE EVENT BREAKDOWN

Apex Legends: Double Take Collection Event Overview

Get ready to rumble, Legends! The first collection event of the season, Double Take, is here, and it brings a host of exciting updates and changes to Apex Legends. Here's everything you need to know to make the most of this event:

Quads Takeover: A New Dynamic

Apex Legends is shaking things up with the introduction of the Quads Takeover. For the first time, you can form a squad of four and dive into the chaos of 15 teams battling it out. This new quad system introduces fresh strategies and team compositions, making every match more dynamic and engaging. With four players per team, the possibilities for outsmarting and outplaying your opponents have expanded significantly. Just be aware that while Tridents can't accommodate a fourth player, there's always Valkyrie's Ult or Evac Towers to get your whole squad moving.

Event Cosmetics: Unlock Exclusive Skins

The Double Take Collection Event is loaded with new, limited-time cosmetics. There are 24 mind-bending event cosmetics to collect, including legendary skins for fan-favorite Legends like Octane, Crypto, Fuse, Conduit, and Revenant. Additionally, there are legendary skins for weapons, including the Havoc, which has seen a lot of use lately. Collect them all before the event ends to automatically receive Lifeline’s Prestige set, featuring her new skin, "Apex Corruptor," and her finisher, “RidDOCulous.”

Reward Tracker: Maximize Your Progress

During the event, you can earn up to 1,400 points per day, with challenges that refresh daily. These challenges stack with your Battle Pass, allowing you to multitask and minimize the grind. The Double Take reward tracker features various unlocks and four potential badges, so make sure to check it daily and make the most of your playtime.

Store Tab: Limited-Time Offers

Explore the Store tab for limited-time offers, including the "Firewalter Fitzroy" bundle available from June 25 to July 9, 2024. This bundle, along with others, provides a great opportunity to expand your collection with exclusive items that will only be available during the event.

Ranked Rumble: Show Your Skills

As the season winds down, the Double Take Collection Event introduces the first-ever Ranked Rumble, running from August 3 to August 6, 2024. This special event mode lets you and your squad compete to see who can achieve the highest rank. Each Rank Tier will have its own leaderboard, and the top players will earn unique badges. Note that your performance in Ranked Rumble will not affect your RP or Ranked Season placement, so you can focus solely on showcasing your skills.

Balance Updates: Improved Gameplay Experience

The event also brings several balance updates to enhance the gameplay experience. Key changes include:

- G7 Scout: Increased damage and rate of fire, along with adjusted recoil for more consistent performance.

- Havoc Rifle: Reduced magazine sizes to balance its high damage output.

- R-99 SMG: Reduced hip-fire randomness to improve reliability.

- Bloodhound: Changes to threat vision and Ult charge to encourage new team compositions.

- Bangalore: Smoke Launcher now highlights all players within the smoke, making fights clearer but riskier.

Modes and Maps: Expanded Variety

Alongside the Quads Takeover, the event features a rotation of maps and modes. This includes popular maps like Broken Moon, Kings Canyon, and Olympus for Pubs, and ranked matches on Broken Moon, Olympus, and World’s Edge. The Quads mode will replace the Duos playlist for the duration of the event, adding a fresh twist to the gameplay.

For a detailed breakdown of all the changes and updates, including patch notes and bug fixes, visit the official Apex Legends Double Take Collection Event page.

Prepare for battle, strategize with your team, and may the best squad win!

FIFA 23 TOTW 10 IS HERE!!!

Due to no domestic football being played during the 2022 World Cup, EA opted to pause their weekly TOTW releases, instead releasing weekly World Cup-themed promos into FIFA 23. But, with domestic football now starting to return to action, the much-loved (or not) Team of the Week promo has returned with TOTW 10.

FIFA has released its Team of the Week (TOTW) 10 squad, featuring a number of talented players from top clubs around the world.

In midfield, Martin Odegaard of Arsenal leads the way with an overall rating (OVR) of 88. Up front, Atletico Madrid's Antoine Griezmann stands out with an OVR of 87. Aston Villa's Douglas Luiz has also been included in the TOTW 10 squad, earning an OVR of 87 as a central defensive midfielder.

Porto's Mehdi Taremi has earned a spot in the squad as well, with an OVR of 87 as a striker. Villarreal's Pau Torres has been included as a center back, with an OVR of 86. Cadiz's Jeremias Ledesma rounds out the starting lineup as goalkeeper, with an OVR of 86.

Other notable players in the TOTW 10 squad include Ricardo Horta of Braga (85 OVR as a central attacking midfielder), Lois Openda of Lens (85 OVR as a striker), and Manchester United's Luke Shaw (84 OVR as a center back).

The next promo to be released in FIFA's Ultimate Team (FUT) 23 is expected to be FUT Centurions, honoring players who have reached century landmarks in their careers.

WHY YOU SHOULD GET FIFA 23

Are you a soccer fan looking for the ultimate virtual experience? Look no further than FIFA 23. From its realistic gameplay to its immersive game modes, FIFA 23 has something for everyone. We offer you a few reasons why you should consider purchasing this latest installment of the popular FIFA franchise.

Released in 2022, FIFA 23 is the latest and final installment in the hugely popular FIFA franchise. It features updated teams, players, and stadiums, as well as a variety of new gameplay features that make it a must-have for soccer fans and gamers alike.

The biggest reasons why you should pick up FIFA 23 are;

• FIFA 23: The Final Installment of the FIFA Franchise

It's hard to believe, but after over two decades of thrilling soccer action, FIFA 23 marks the final installment in the iconic FIFA franchise. While it's certainly sad to see the series come to an end, the developers at EA Sports have gone out with a bang, delivering a game that is sure to be remembered as a classic.

Is there a better reason to pick up the game at this moment?.

• FIFA 23 on sale now - 60% discount!

FIFA 23 is currently on sale on all platforms! With a 60 percent discount, it's a really great deal and you don't need to worry about not getting your money's worth. If you're interested in getting the game, now is definitely the time to buy it.

• FIFA 23 now has crossplay

In FIFA 23, cross-play refers to the ability of players on different platforms to play the game together, regardless of whether they are using a console, computer, or mobile device. This means that players on different platforms, such as Xbox, PlayStation, and PC, can all play together in the same match.

One potential benefit of cross-play in FIFA 23 is that it allows you to play with a wider group of friends who may be using different platforms. This could make it easier to arrange matches and play together, as you would not be limited to only playing with those who own the same platform as you.

• FIFA 23 ULTIMATE TEAM

FIFA 23 Ultimate Team (FUT) is a popular game mode in FIFA 23 that allows players to build and manage their own team made up of real-life players from a variety of professional leagues. Players can acquire new players for their team through various methods, such as purchasing them with in-game currency or real money, or by opening player packs with randomly generated players.

FUT can be a compelling reason for players to purchase FIFA 23, as it offers a deep and customizable experience that can be highly enjoyable for fans of soccer and team-building games. In FUT, players can create their dream team by selecting their favorite players and building a squad that fits their playstyle. They can also compete against other players' teams in online matches, climb the leaderboards, and participate in special events and tournaments.

• FIFA 23: New Players, Transfers & Kits

Every year, this is the main reason for people to buy the new FIFA. Players change clubs, youth players are brought up, and teams get new kits. If you always want to be up-to-date and play with the new ratings, There is no other choice than to buy the new FIFA because the ratings in FIFA 22 won't change any more.

In conclusion, FIFA 23 is a must-buy for soccer fans and gamers alike. With its realistic gameplay, multiple game modes, improved visuals, and cross-play capabilities, FIFA 23 offers endless hours of entertainment. Don't miss out on this highly-rated soccer game