UPDATE 4/16: Ubisoft has announced that the server test session will begin on Friday, April 19 at 10 AM PT and will run until Sunday, April 21 at 10 AM PT.
Original story follows.
Summary
An insider has said thatXDefiant’s next server test session is set to take place on Friday, April 19, but also cautioned that this could change. Recently, Ubisoft confirmed that a server test session was coming soon but didn’t specify when, after the studio also confirmed unfortunate news regardingXDefiant’s release.
In late March, it was announced thatXDefiant’s launch was delayedonce again due to unfinished features, according to Ubisoft. The game was planned to release by the end of Q1 2024 after its October 2023 launch was also delayed, but its release date has again been pushed back to an unspecified date. However, Ubisoft said that a new release date should be locked in onceXDefiant’s next server test session concludes, and it appears that could be coming quite soon.
Insider Gaming’s Tom Hendersonsaid that Ubisoft plans forXDefiant’s next server test session to run from April 19 to April 21, available on PC, PS5, and Xbox Series X/S. Ubisoft originally said that the next test session would only be live for about 12 hours, but the insider’s sources say that the beta period should run until Sunday if no major issues come up. However, this news has not been confirmed so it should not be taken as fact yet, especially seeing the unpredictable nature ofXDefiant’s development so far.
XDefiant’s Next Server Test Session Possibly Launching on April 19
XDefiant’s last server test session included a variety of maps, modes, and weapons for users to try out. It’s still unclear what the next one will include, but it will likely feature a similar offering and possibly brand-new content. Over the last year,XDefianthas been involved in its fair share of controversy. Recently, the game’s director pushed against claims thatXDefiant’s delays were partially due to Ubisofttrying to implement more and more features inspired byCall of Duty’s success.
XDefiant’s director said that delays were instead due to various technical issues not related toCoD-like features. Although it may not have contributed to delays,XDefiantdoes take plenty of inspiration fromCall of Duty. The game utilizes a similar fast-paced approach and is set to be the first AAA competitor to Activision’s massive franchise in years.
Many hope thatXDefiantcan outperformCall of Dutyby improving on the latter’s more controversial features while keeping its best ones. Ubisoft already confirmed thatXDefiantfeatures no skill-based matchmaking except in ranked modes and a boot camp mode meant for beginners, and the game also utilizes a free-to-play model unlikeCall of Dutyand its annual releases. Although it’s a popular decision, completely removing SBMM from an FPS is a bold move. It’s still unclear how a truly skill-less matchmaking system will pan out, assuming Ubisoft doesn’t back away from the strategy.
XDefiant
XDefiant is a free-to-play, first-person online arena shooter where you compete in fast-paced clashes. With cross-play available at launch, you will be able to play with friends on a variety of platforms.Season 1 introduces the Team Rainbow operators of GS-Kommando leveraging their counter-terrorism training to disrupt their enemies. They can deploy electrified barbed wire for area denial, counter incoming enemy devices with their Active Defense System, and dazzle multiple foes with flash charges mounted on their G52-Tactical Shield.While GS-Kommando operators pride themselves on using non-lethal force whenever possible, they are as capable on the battlefield as any spec ops group.Customized Loadouts: Choose from a large arsenal of weapons, attachments, and devices to optimize the way you play. Combine any weapon with any faction, and unlock new options as you play to perfect your playstyle.Factions: Factions are drawn from iconic Ubisoft worlds and represent distinct classes, each with unique abilities and ultras. Choose any character from any faction to assemble your team of six players. Change your faction at any point during play to adapt to your strategy.Maps, Modes, and Mayhem: Play in a diverse range of 14 maps at launch across several different arena and linear modes including Zone Control, Escort, Occupy, and more. Fight in casual matches or climb the tiers in competitive ranked mode.
