The recently launchedXDefiantdid well to attract an audience closer to its release back in May, but the game has definitely lost some steam in more recent months. As a free-to-play shooter with the ability to pull its in-game factions from avariety of other Ubisoft IPs, it is clear to see where the initial hype around the title came from, but Ubisoft needs to do more to really keep this playerbase engaged over the coming months.
Partially in response to this, Ubisoft recently outlined a comprehensive roadmap for the first year ofXDefiant, giving fans a complete idea of exactly what they can expect to be added to the game over the coming months. This might be just whatXDefiantneeded to revive some of the buzz that once surrounded the title, with the recent roadmap promising a huge amount of content in the way of factions, weapons, maps, and brand-new mechanics.
A Lot of Fresh Content is on the Way For XDefiant
The news aroundXDefiant’s future content planscomes as the game’s first in-game season is coming to an end, with the title adopting the popular live-service post-launch content approach that many modern projects have used to great success. Season one is set to end on September 23, with fans recently receiving a full reveal for the game’s next season on September 18.
It was confirmed that season two ofXDefiantwill introduce a brand-new playable faction to the game, known as The Highwaymen. This newfaction is pulled straight fromFar Cry New Dawn, offering an aggressive play-style based around ramshackle new weapons, as seen in their Saw-Launcher Ultra ability. Season two ofXDefiantis also introducing a new game-mode named Bomb, which brings the tense single-life attack and defense gameplay ofRainbow SixSiegeto the free-to-play shooter.
New weapons will also be introduced in the PP-19, L86 LSW, and SPAS-12,as well as three new maps forXDefiant: Waterfront, Signal, and Air & Space. Launching on September 25, season two will also include a wide range of quality of life improvements. While less is known about seasons three and four, the recently revealed roadmap forXDefiantgives a solid overview of what fans can expect to see going forward.
XDefiant’s Future Will See Some Big Boosts to Player Progression
According to the roadmap, season 3 ofXDefiantwill introduce private match capabilities as well as three new maps and weapons, as well as a new game mode and faction. This season will be complimented by limited-time modes and events, while also seeing some massive improvements to ranked play via new sanctions and a rejoin feature. Season 3 will seemingly also have a large focus on player progression, introducingnewXDefiantmechanics like a prestige and faction mastery system.
Season 4 ofXDefiantis the final season outlined in its first-year roadmap, also following the general season framework of introducing one faction as well as three new maps and weapons. This season is unique in that it will introduce a fresh gadget, while also seeing a “major event takeover” that promises to be the largest inXDefiant’s history. Whereas season 3 appears to have a focus on faction mastery, season 4 will seemingly lean more into weapon leveling, introducing new camo challenges and a revitalized weapon mastery mechanic. WhileXDefiantis still finding its post-launch feet, it is clear that Ubisoft still has massive plans for the IP-bending shooter.
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.
