An action-packed shooting game
XDefiant is Ubisoft's new free-to-play action title developed using the Snowdrop engine. This FPS lets players compete in fast-paced online matches and is an ever-evolving experience with regular updates featuring new playable factions, maps, weapons, and game modes. It also supports cross-play, enabling players to join their friends across various platforms.
XDefiant's gameplay is reminiscent of other beloved combat titles like Call of Duty and Valorant. Its team-based approach requires players to engage in 6v6 battles set in a chaotic dystopia. The game's objective is to eliminate enemy players while completing missions to gain points and win the match.
Compete to be the best
In XDefiant, players have access to different gameplay modes, including Domination, Zone, Control, Escort, and Occupy. Each mode is designed with unique mechanics with no two matches ever the same, providing players with the ultimate freedom to tailor their gaming experience to suit their playing style. Whether players seek fast-paced action or prefer a more strategic approach, the game has something to satisfy their individual tastes.
Playing this game also means players can pick among different factions, namely Libertad, Phantoms, Echelon, Cleaners, and DedSec. They can also choose from a range of customizable load-outs and abilities, which can be leveled up and unlocked over time, giving players access to new strengths and load-out options. This empowers players to engage in 6v6 co-op battles in arena-style maps or swap factions at any time.
Apart from these features, the game provides a dynamic visual style that goes perfectly well with its fast-moving gameplay, resembling the Tom Clancy and Super Smash Bros game series. When it comes to graphics, it boasts a highly polished and realistic look with lifelike textures and detailed lighting. However, the game lacks uniqueness and doesn't really offer anything new to the table.
Some refinements
After the latest test session, XDefiant delivers a well-rounded improvement package. Sharper visuals with clearer bulletproof glass and flashier bullet holes greet you on revamped maps. Under the hood, performance optimizations aim for smoother gameplay, while core mechanics receive a stability boost with fixes for hit registration and desyncing. Network infrastructure gets an upgrade for potentially rock-solid online matches. Beyond gameplay, the update streamlines squad management with an improved social system and caters to accessibility with options to adjust the flashbang effect. Other changes include minor bug fixes, audio improvements, and fresh voice-over triggers.
Major content drop in season 1
A scorching wave of new content and balance adjustments arrives in the first major season of the arena shooter XDefiant. Players can dive into the all-new tactical GSK faction composed of elite operators from Rainbow Six Siege, wielding gadgets like area-denial barbed wire and a blinding flash shield ultimate. The new Capture the Flag mode adds a strategic twist, while the close-quarters focused Clubhouse map offers fresh combat opportunities.
What’s more, weapon arsenals grow with the L115 sniper rifle offering faster handling but lower damage, the high fire rate but less stable LVOA-C assault rifle, and the devastating Sawed-Off shotgun. Progression gets smoother, too, with less XP needed for Battle Pass tiers, while the killfeed now displays headshots for bragging rights. With the rebalanced match XP bonuses, players are more likely to complete a match.
Balance adjustments target specific abilities in each existing faction, addressing beta tester feedback. Echelon's intel recon gets a cooldown bump, while Phantoms' deployable shield becomes more fragile and susceptible to EMPs. DedSec gains a shorter cooldown on their hacking ability, and Libertad sees a boost to their healing cooldown. Various bug fixes, graphical and audio improvements, and additional crash fixes round out the update.
Your next favorite shooting game
XDefiant offers vibrant, realistic visuals that suit its fast-paced gameplay, making it ideal for those looking for a more thrilling approach to FPS games. While it offers thrilling gameplay and a great customization system, it doesn't really set itself apart from titles within the same genre. So, if you're looking for something fresh, you might find the game a bit lacking.