Ready for a knockout? Well fire up the consoles because MARVEL vs. CAPCOM® Fighting Collection: Arcade Classics and Capcom Fighting Collection™ 2 are coming to Xbox One in 2025! Players can revisit 15 of their favorite fighting game classics with these two unforgettable collections, including:
MARVEL vs. CAPCOM Fighting Collection: Arcade Classics
X-MEN CHILDREN OF THE ATOM
MARVEL SUPER HEROES
X-MEN VS. STREET FIGHTER
MARVEL SUPER HEROES vs. STREET FIGHTER
MARVEL vs. CAPCOM CLASH OF SUPER HEROES
MARVEL vs. CAPCOM 2 New Age of Heroes
THE PUNISHER
Capcom Fighting Collection 2
Capcom vs. SNK: Millennium Fight 2000 Pro
Capcom vs. SNK 2: Mark of the Millennium 2001
Capcom Fighting Evolution
Street Fighter Alpha 3 UPPER
Project Justice
Power Stone
Power Stone 2
Plasma Sword: Nightmare of Bilstein
Each collection comes jam-packed with a ton of new features and content, including:
Seamless Online Gameplay: Online play is available across all titles in each collection, featuring rollback netcode for a strong and stable online experience!
Practice Makes Perfect: Training Mode is now available across all titles with tons of customizable options!
New Language Support!: 14 languages will be supported including English, Latin American Spanish, Brazilian Portuguese, Japanese, French, Italian, German, Castilian Spanish, Russian, Polish, Korean, Simplified Chinese, Traditional Chinese, and Arabic.
Behind-the-Scenes Content: Explore art and music galleries with official art, concept art, design documents, and more never-before-seen content.
Customize Your Experience: Fine-tune specific features of your gameplay experience via EX Settings specialized to each game, various Display Filters, button customization, and more!
Need a Snack Break?: Mid-game saves have now been added!
Additional Updates: Various gameplay balance adjustments and quality of life improvements across both collections.
We’ll have more details to share in the months ahead and we’re thrilled to celebrate these fighting game classics with the entire Xbox community. And don’t forget – Street Fighter™ 6 is available now on Xbox Series X|S if you need to get into fighting game shape before these upcoming collections drop!
DJI, the global leader in civilian drones and innovative camera technology, today announces the DJI Neo, which at just 135g1, is the company’s lightest and most compact drone to date. The drone can be fully controlled without a remote control, launched and landed on the palm1, features AI subject tracking, QuickShots, and offers 4K ultra-stabilized video with a flight time of up to 18 minutes1. Whether flown indoor or out, full-coverage propeller guards give users the safest experience possible when recording their day-to-day adventures of themselves or having fun in a group with friends.
“At DJI we are always studying everyday camera use so that we can help people capture their videos and photos in the most convenient way possible. The DJI Neo strives to give people the latest tech in the smallest form factor so that they can capture their daily lives, saved as treasured memories, safely and with ease,” said Ferdinand Wolf, Creative Director at DJI.
Into the Air at the Press of a Button
By simply pressing the drone’s mode button and selecting the desired shooting mode, Neo automatically does the rest without the need for a remote control. After snapping 12MP stills with its 1/2-inch image sensor or using DJI’s powerful stabilization algorithms to produce 4K UHD stabilized videos straight out of the camera at 4K/30fps1, the drone will return to the user’s palm.
Tell Your Story with AI Subject Tracking
Neo’s AI algorithms have been created to follow the subject within the frame. Whether cycling, skateboarding or hiking, captivating follow shots are created with ease. Additional creativity can be achieved by taking advantage of Neo’s QuickShots, which has six intelligent shooting modes1, offering a range of different recording angles.
Dronie: The drone flies backward and ascends, with the camera locked on the subject, and records a video.
Circle: The drone circles around the subject.
Rocket: The drone ascends with the camera pointing downward.
Spotlight: The drone rotates while keeping the object of interest within the frame
Helix: The drone ascends and spirals around the subject.
Boomerang: The drone flies around the subject in an oval path, ascending as it flies away from its starting point and descending as it flies back. The aircraft’s starting point forms one end of the oval’s long axis, while the other end is at the subject’s opposite side from the starting point.
Control it Your Way
The DJI Neo has been designed to be operated without an additional remote control, however, it can also be paired with the DJI Fly app, remote controllers, RC Motion, DJI Goggles, and even voice operated1, for increased flight and camera control.
A Wi-Fi connection to smartphones enables Neo to be controlled using virtual joysticks on the DJI Fly app interface with a control range of up to 50 meters1. The app also allows the tracking angle and distance to be set, giving extra freedom to shoot from afar or up close.
When combined with the DJI RC-N3, DJI Neo can achieve a maximum video transmission distance of 10 kilometers1 and offers the opportunity to flexibly operate the camera using traditional RC control sticks to capture professional level shots.
For those looking for an immersive drone experience, DJI Neo can be paired with DJI Goggles 3, RC Motion 3, or FPV Remote Controller 3. When used with RC Motion 3, DJI Neo masters the art of one-press aerobatics, seamless indoor navigation and can be maneuvered through tight spaces with ease.
Stabilization as Standard
DJI Neo is equipped with a single-axis mechanical gimbal and is capable of handling high-speed or flights with lots of maneuvers, as well as up to Level-4 wind conditions. When combined with RockSteady or HorizonBalancing stabilization, overall image shake is significantly reduced and horizon tilt is corrected within ±45°1, for smooth and stable footage that maintains clarity in both highlight and shadow areas.
Using an infrared and monocular vision positioning system, DJI Neo can hover steadily in the air, maintaining stability even in wind conditions up to Level 4. It also supports automatic Return to Home (RTH) for convenient, worry-free operation.
Everyday Content Capture Made Easy
With 22GB internal storage, Neo can save up to 40 minutes of 4K/30fps video or 55 minutes of 1080p/60fps video. Once saved, no extra data cables are needed to transfer the footage; connecting to a phone by Wi-Fi will quickly transfer it to the DJI Fly App enabling smooth post production and sharing.
Audio can also easily be recorded by connecting Neo to a smartphone. A simple tap of the audio record button on the DJI Fly app will start recording through the phone’s built-in microphone. For those looking for additional audio quality, the DJI Mic 2 can be used via a Bluetooth connection. The app automatically eliminates propeller noise and merges the audio track with the footage, ensuring clear sound even when shooting low-angle vlogs.
The DJI Fly app offers a vast selection of templates, sound and image effects, for quick and easy editing. Create and share videos efficiently without needing to download the footage to edit, saving storage space on the phone.
Connect the aircraft directly to a power source using a Type-C data cable for convenient charging. Additionally, DJI Neo’s Two-Way Charging Hub can charge three batteries simultaneously1, increasing both charging speed and efficiency.
Neo’s Offline Debut Happening at IFA, 6-10 September, 2024
Be among the first to experience DJI’s groundbreaking new palm-sized drone for vlogs, at this year’s IFA, Germany. The drone will be available to try out for all visitors to DJI’s booth (Hall 17-110) from 6th-10th September.
1All data was measured using a production model of DJI Neo in a controlled environment.
Today, Shure announced the launch of the new dynamic MV6 USB Gaming Microphone designed for PC gamers and streamers seeking consistent, high-quality audio at an accessible price point. With Shure’s signature look and feel, the MV6 USB Gaming Microphone is ready to use out-of-the-box and easy to operate thanks to integrated cutting-edge DSP technology including Auto Level Mode, Digital Popper Stopper™ and Real-time Denoiser. The new MV6 dynamic microphone, certified for OBS (Open Broadcaster Software ® ), leverages Shure’s legacy of professional audio quality, wrapped in an iconic form factor.
Inspired by Shure’s iconic SM7 and MV7 lines, the MV6 Gaming Microphone is the ideal solution for gamers and streamers looking for their first professional microphone. Dynamic capsules excel in isolating the speaker’s voice from background sounds and room noise which are common in untreated streaming and gaming spaces. The combination of its dynamic cartridge with advanced DSP features and integration with Shure’s MOTIV Mix™ App ensures gamers and streamers enjoy studio-quality performance in every session without worrying about gain adjustments, plosives, or background noise. Plus, its easy access tap-to-mute button adds an extra level of control for a completely seamless experience.
“Today’s gamers and streamers want to deliver an immersive and engaging experience, and to achieve it, excellent audio is a must”. said Eduardo Valdes, Associate Vice President of Global Marketing and Product Management. “In a market that is teeming with condenser microphone options, we are introducing a dynamic microphone built with DSP controls that provides users reliable professional audio, regardless of their audio expertise, and powering them to stay hyper-focused on their game”.
Key Features & Benefits
Voice Isolation Technology: Minimises background noise and eliminates distractions, unlike typical condenser microphones that can pick up unwanted room noise. This ensures that the user’s voice remains clear and prominent, free from interruptions. Auto Level Mode: Automatically adjusts the microphone’s gain based on your distance and speech volume, providing consistent audio levels up to 18’’ away from the microphone, meaning gamers and streamers will sound great regardless of where it is placed on their desk. This feature was designed to simplify professional audio and ensures optimal sound quality right out-of-the- box, making it perfect for gamers and streamers.
Digital Popper Stopper: A virtual pop filter that removes harsh plosive sounds digitally, ensuring clean audio capture without the need for additional hardware.
Real-Time Denoiser: Eliminates background noise and works with the mic’s Voice Isolation Technology to deliver a cleaner, more professional sound, useful for streamers and gamers in less controlled environments.
The MV6 joins the MV7+ as one of the first microphones to receive the OBS certification in collaboration with the OBS Project. This certification guarantees that the MV6 microphone meets the criteria of functionality necessary to ensure users have a positive experience while using the microphone with OBS.
“Using a mic that’s Certified For OBS gives me complete confidence that I can rely on it when using the software for my streaming each day. The OBS badge is a feature all gamers and streamers will be looking for when choosing their next mic.” said Loserfruit, Professional Streamer and Content Creator.
For gamers and streamers, the MV6 offers the best of both worlds: legendary Shure sound and effortless setup. When used with the free MOTIV Mix App users can further customise their mic, mix multiple channels of audio and stream. The new 1.2 Beta Version offers enhanced functionality, including activity presets that save time setting up each session, a background noise detection with the use of Sound Check with tips to reduce ambient noise, and an improved setup flow to get started easier with MOTIV Mix app.
The MV6 Gaming Microphone, with USB-C compatibility and MFi certification, seamlessly connects with PC and Mac, as well as select Apple and Android mobile devices, providing versatile connectivity options.
The built-in 3.5mm headphone output allows real-time headphone monitoring, while a versatile 12cm desktop stand and base-mount adapter ensure flexible setup options.
Pricing and Availability
Drawing inspiration from Shure’s iconic microphone lineage, the MV6 delivers durable construction and sleek design. Shure will showcase the MV6 at Showstoppers IFA in Berlin. The MV6 is available to purchase now for £129, 149€ and $149 USD. For additional information, visit www.shure.com/MV6.
Today, Polaris Team (an offshoot of award-winning indie developer Variable State) announced that their upcoming sci-fi co-op shooter with fully destructible environments, POLARIS, will launch its first Pre-Alpha playtest this weekend running from September 6th, 2024 at 10am PDT to September 9th at 10am PDT. Players interested in trying out the co-op PvE can request access to the Pre-Alpha on the POLARIS Steam page once the event is live and await approval from the Polaris Team. Alternatively, players can sign up to the POLARIS Newsletter by Wednesday, September 4th to receive 4 Pre-Alpha Steam Keys to share with friends, which grants immediate access to the event on Friday.
Since the game’s reveal at IGN Live this past June, Polaris Team has been hard at work in the development process, implementing new features, refining the core gameplay mechanics, and exploring a more stylized visual aesthetic. The playtest will showcase an early development build, featuring work-in-progress content; by enlisting their community to join in at this early stage, the team hopes to gain invaluable feedback provided to help steer their creative process. Players will be able to offer feedback, coordinate co-op games, and discuss the game in the newly launched Discord.
POLARIS Pre-Alpha Test | Details
When: Friday, September 6th at 10am PDT to Monday, September 9th at 10am PDT
How to Join the Pre-Alpha:
Sign up to the Newsletter to receive 4 Pre-Alpha Steam Keys
Request to join from the Steam Page once the event is live!
Co-op Matchmaking:
Play with Steam friends
Coordinate co-op groups in the Discord
Pre-Alpha Content & Caveats:
This early development build of POLARIS will include a single level to explore with 1 – 4 players. The playtest includes a dynamically destructible environment, flying abilities and co-op shooter-action— but players should expect some placeholder artwork and work-in-progress features.
At the 100th year of IFA, beyerdynamic – the legendary German audio giant who celebrated its centennial earlier this year – will proudly introduce new additions to its wireless product lineup. The technology-packed over-ear AVENTHO 300 takes over as beyerdynamic’s flagship headphone, while AMIRON 300 gives a new take on the company’s TWS earbuds. The all-new AVENTHO 300 and AMIRON 300 will be available in the US at the beyerdynamic e-shop and Amazon.com later this Fall.
“There aren’t many companies today that can celebrate 100 years of innovation,” said beyerdynamic CEO Andreas Rapp. “We’re incredibly honored to be sharing our centennial year together with IFA, another historic and innovative German organization. There’s no better way to introduce our latest and greatest true wireless products than at IFA 2024, as it showcases a century of the latest and greatest innovations.”
The Best of beyerdynamic. Setting the Standard for Everyone Else.
AVENTHO 300 sets a new standard for wireless headphones, featuring high-grade swivel and foldable aluminum yokes, lightweight materials, and an ergonomic design tailored for daily comfort. Equipped with beyerdynamic’s iconic STELLAR.45 drivers, engineered in Germany, AVENTHO 300 delivers a breathtakingly detailed sound experience.
Designed for modern listeners, AVENTHO 300 is Apple MFi certified and features Dolby Head Tracking™ technology, offering immersive spatial audio that adapts to your movements to keep you in the middle of what’s happening. To elevate the listening experience, AVENTHO 300 incorporates Hybrid Active Noise Cancelation (ANC), powered by dual Sony chipsets on either side of the headphones, ensuring customizable and consistent noise cancellation.
Transparency Mode allows users to remain aware of their surroundings without interrupting their listening experience, making AVENTHO 300 ideal for travel, commuting to the office, or working out. AVENTHO 300 is also equipped with a pal-controlled touchpad and buttons for intuitive control, as well as wearing detection that will automatically pause or play music when the headphones are removed or put on. Battery Life for Days. Comfort for All Day.
With an impressive battery life of up to 50 hours, AVENTHO 300 is designed with extended use in mind. A quick 2-hour charge via USB-C delivers a full battery, while a 10-minute fast charge provides up to 5 hours of playtime, making it easy to keep the music going no matter where you are.
With advanced Bluetooth® 5.4 technology – the latest in Bluetooth technology – and multipoint connectivity, AVENTHO 300 offers flexible pairing with multiple devices, and can seamlessly transition between the two latest connected devices. It features USB-C for efficient charging and data transfer, as well as a 3.5mm analog audio jack for those who prefer a traditional wired connection. AVENTHO 300 also supports a range of highresolution audio codecs, including AAC, LE Audio, aptX Adaptive, and aptX Lossless, providing listeners with the most advanced sound quality and ultimate compatibility. AVENTHO 300 combines elegant design with top-tier materials to create a product that is both visually stunning and supremely durable. From its sleek aluminum yokes to its comfortable, ergonomic build, every detail has been carefully considered to deliver a luxurious, flexible listening experience.
The all-new AVENTHO 300 will be available in the US at the beyerdynamic e-shop and Amazon.com beginning Q4 for $399.99.
Truly Iconic beyerdynamic Sound. For Truly Wireless beyerdynamic Earbuds.
AMIRON 300 are the latest evolution of beyerdynamic’s true wireless earbuds series, offering the brand’s signature studio sound in an ultra-lightweight, compact design. Whether you’re on the move, working out, or relaxing at home, AMIRON 300 adapts perfectly to your lifestyle, delivering unparalleled audio quality and all-day comfort. Equipped with beyerdynamic’s signature 10mm dynamic drivers, AMIRON 300 delivers pristine audio that sets the benchmark for true wireless earbuds. AMIRON 300 have deep bass, precise mids, and crystal-clear highs, making every listening experience feel like a studio session. With six built-in microphones, enhanced with advanced algorithms to filter out ambient noise, AMIRON 300 transforms every call into a crystal-clear conversation, even in noisy settings.
AMIRON 300 also features customizable ANC that intelligently adapts to your surroundings, allowing you to focus on your music while staying aware of your environment with advanced Transparency Mode. Multipoint Bluetooth 5.3 lets you connect multiple devices simultaneously, making switching between your phone, laptop, and tablet completely seamless. Automatic pause/play functions ensure you never miss a beat, pausing your audio when you remove the earbuds and resuming it when you put them back in.
Listen Anywhere. Enjoy Everywhere.
AMIRON 300 was designed with comfort in mind. The ergonomic earbuds offer a secure fit with five different ear tip options, ensuring maximum comfort and stability during extended wear. With a flat back, the earbuds are optimized for a comfortable wear even if you’re lying down or leaning against the window of an airplane. Whether you’re at home, in the office, or on the go, AMIRON 300 provides a secure and comfortable fit that adapts to and lasts for your entire day.
With a total battery life of 38 hours and up to 10 hours of continuous playtime, AMIRON 300 is built for all-day listening. A quick 10-minute charge provides an additional 2 hours of playtime, while the Qi-compatible charging case offers an additional 28 hours of battery capacity, ensuring you’re never without your music.
The all-new AMIRON 300 will be available in the US at the beyerdynamic e-shop and Amazon.com beginning Q4 for $279.99.
Both AVENTHO 300 and AMIRON 300 are compatible with beyerdynamic’s new app for iOS and Android, offering easy sound customization and over-the-air (OTA) updates. The new app includes a 5-band equalizer for personalized sound profiles and genre-specific presets, ensuring your audio stays current with the latest software.
To celebrate its first anniversary, PAYDAY™ 3 has prepared a two-part update bringing more content to the game. Part 1 will release on September 16; Part 2 will follow in October. PAYDAY 3 Anniversary Update Part 1 is packed with thrilling new content that will elevate your criminal escapades to new heights. Mark your calendars for this update on September 16 and infiltrate one of the most secure financial hubs in the world! Watch the teaser trailer here!
Anniversary Update Part 1 Overview The countdown to the PAYDAY 3 Anniversary Update Part 1 has begun! This update introduces Chapter 4 – Fear and Greed, the latest DLC in the Year One Roadmap. Gold Edition and Gold Pass owners of PAYDAY 3 will have access to this expansion, which will also be available for purchase separately on PC, Xbox Series S|X, and PlayStation 5.
The Fear & Greed expansion includes:
The Heist Pack: which includes the Stock Exchange Heist
The Weapon Pack with 3 new weapons, new mods and cosmetics
The Tailor Pack with 4 new masks, 4 new suits and 4 new pairs of gloves
Are you ready to play the market and rake in the cash?
PAYDAY 3 Anniversary Update Part 1 also comes with free content available for all players including:
New Heister (Houston): after being rescued from the Courthouse, Houston will become a playable heister
New Overkill Weapon (Minigun M135)
New masks
New Twitch Drops
Don’t miss out on the action. PAYDAY 3 is set to deliver an unforgettable heisting experience with the Anniversary Update Part 1 on September 16. Keep your masks handy and your weapons loaded—the perfect heist is just around the corner!
Dear Villagers and Draw Distance are delighted to announce that Vampire: The Masquerade – Reckoning of New York is releasing on September 10th, 2024. It will be coming to Steam, PlayStation 4 with PlayStation 5 compatibility, Xbox One with Xbox Series compatibility and Nintendo Switch.
Vampire: The Masquerade – Reckoning of New York invites you to immerse yourself in the third installment of this gripping visual novel series, set against the backdrop of the Big Apple teeming with supernatural intrigue.
Dive into the streets of New York City in 2024, where the delicate balance of power hangs by a thread. Navigate the treacherous waters of vampiric politics as you contend with the ever-shifting landscape between the Camarilla and Anarchs.
Key Features
Play with new gameplay mechanics as you harness the powers of Disciplines to overcome challenges or evade the relentless pursuit of hunters hot on your trail. But beware the insatiable Hunger that gnaws at your very being, threatening to unleash the Beast within.
Embark on a journey of discovery and deception from two distinct perspectives, each offering unique insights into the clandestine world of the Big Apple’s nights.
Experience the thrilling conclusion to this gripping saga in the heart of the New York concrete jungle.
After a quarter of a century of vibrant celebrations, Hollywood Forever’s Día de los Muertos is returning to its beloved classic configuration of a single all-day event on October 26th with doors opening at 10 AM PT, inviting attendees to immerse themselves in the festivities from dawn to dusk.
Step into the mystical world of Tonas and Nahuales—spiritual guides and guardians central to indigenous Mesoamerican cultures—as Hollywood Forever’s Día de los Muertos returns for its 25th spellbinding edition for an all-day adventure into the heart of Mesoamerican tradition.
Performances
This year, the stage will be set ablaze by an extraordinary lineup:
Pedro Fernández – Bringing the soulful essence of Mexican ranchera to life, his voice will guide you through the celebration like a true spiritual guardian.
Los Lobos – The legendary rockers who blend Chicano rock with traditional Mexican sounds, they’ll transport you to the very soul of the festivities.
Reyna Tropical – Formed as a duo in 2016, and now the solo project of guitarist and songwriter, Fabi Reyna, will immerse you in their tropical rhythms, echoing the vibrant energy of Tonas.
Ambar Lucid – With her ethereal voice and dreamy tunes, she’ll serenade your spirit, bridging the gap between the physical and the mystical.
El Santo Golpe – Their explosive beats will make you dance to the rhythm of your Nahual, awakening the ancient spirit within.
Tania Libertad – Her powerful voice will channel the essence of transformation, resonating with the wisdom of the ages.
And that’s just the beginning! Stay tuned for more exciting performers who will carry you through this journey of music and culture.
Visual Artist of the Year
We’re thrilled to unveil this year’s artwork by the visionary artist, Antonio Fuentes, whose work captures the magic and mystery of Tonas and Nahuales. His painstakingly hand carved and painted Xoloitzcuintli sculpture is the centerpiece of this year’s event art.
Exhibition
An exhibition of Haitian Vodou Flags (beaded and sequined wall hangings) featuring gods and goddesses from the Vodou pantheon, and cross cultural exploration of the Haitian Vodou Spirit of Death and Guide to the Afterlife – Baron Samedi—often depicted as a skeleton figure in top hat and black tail coat smoking a cigar and guzzling rum.
For complete event information and to purchase tickets, visit ladayofthedead.com.
Get ready for a legendary night at the 45th Annual Freaker’s Ball at Blu and Opal Nightclub in Bally’s Lake Tahoe on Saturday, October 26, 2024. The most highly anticipated Halloween event in Reno-Tahoe is back and better than ever!
In its 45th year, Freaker’s Ball is the ultimate way to mingle with the creatures of the night and enjoy the Halloween season. Named after the 1972 song written by Dr. Hook & the Medicine Show “Freakin’ at the Freaker’s Ball”, this event is perfect for those wanting a night filled with eerie entertainment and ghoulishly good times.
You’ll want to put this Halloween party on your bucket list.
Highlights of the evening include:
$10,000 Costume Contest: Show off your best costume for a chance to win huge prizes.
Spooky Sips: Savor a selection of Halloween-themed cocktails.
Live Entertainment: Vibe to the hottest live music from DJs at Blu & Opal Nightclub.
Doors will open at 9 P.M. The $10,000 Costume Contest winners will be announced just after the bewitching hour of midnight.
Tickets onsale Friday, September 6 at Universe.com.
Don’t miss out on Tahoe’s most anticipated Halloween party of the year! For more information, visit casinos.ballys.com/lake-tahoe.
Earlier today, BioWare published a brand-new development blog titled Progression & Companions, which dives deeper into how Rook, Items and Companions can progress throughout the player’s journey through Thedas in Dragon Age: The Veilguard. Notably, the blog post and accompanying videos give a closer look at Rook’s skill tree, how Items can be augmented and customized via crafting and enchantment (enchantment!), and how Rook’s companions can grow through personal quests and skill point allotment.
The full blog can be viewed here, with an all-in-one version of the videos available on YouTube here:
Hello everyone,
It’s September already! Today, we want to dive deeper into Progression, Items, and Companions with this blog and accompanying videos (minor spoilers in the video). Hopefully after today, players will have a better sense of how to customize Rook and unite the Veilguard.
Skill Tree Progression
Reaching a max level of 50, Rook will be able to have a unique playstyle tuned to deliver coordinated attacks alongside their Companions. The largest experience boosts come from completing quests. The bigger and more momentous the quest the better the bonus will be. Rook also gains experience from killing enemies and exploring, but gaining levels is most efficient when helping the people of Thedas or taking time to deepen Rook’s bond with the Veilguard.
After enough experience points, Rook will level up and be awarded with a Skill Point to place in the Skill Tree. The Constellation Skill Tree lays out all the possible areas of growth, with the types of skills denoted by the shape:
Large circle: Class (core skills and weapon proficiencies)
Diamond: Ability (can be assigned to an Ability slot)
Medium circle: Major Passive or Ability Upgrade (adds effects or modifies existing Abilities or stats, like guaranteeing a critical hit on knockdown or extending range)
Small hexagon: Trait (modifies existing class skill, like counter-attack, extending an attack combo or missile block/return)
Small circle: Minor Passive or Stat Boost (increases efficacy of Abilities, Passive, or stats)
Node selections are designed to harmonize into cohesive builds. This ensures that Rook’s strength is always growing as the playstyle is being refined. Still, if another path calls to the player instead, Skill Points can be refunded (individually or the entire skill tree) at any time, with no resource costs, and spent elsewhere.
Each Class will also have access to three Specialization Areas, outlined in our Combat blog. Rook can gain powerful Abilities tuned to the theme of that Specialization, after unlocking it. While the Specialization Areas are themed by Faction, they are not restricted to a Rook of that Faction. For example, a Grey Warden Rook can still take the Veil Ranger Specialization if they are a Rogue.
Item Progression
There will be a plethora of equipment to find or buy throughout Thedas, including weapons, armor, and accessories. Each item will have its own stats and properties. With respect to weapon and armor advancement, duplicate items empower them to increase stats and unlock additional properties.
For more upgrades, Rook will find the Caretaker’s Workshop in the Lighthouse, as seen in the screenshot, where equipment can be upgraded and enchanted to unlock additional effects for Rook and their Companions. Upgraded equipment will receive increased stats. There will be a list of basic enchantments to start with, but each time Rook upgrades the rank of the Caretaker’s Workshop, more enchantments will become available. Each item or Ability can have a single enchantment applied to it, and each enchantment can only be used on a single item or Ability at a time.
Rook will be aligned with a Faction of the player’s choosing from the beginning of the game. The chosen Faction will influence the initial appearance of Rook, particularly when dressed in casual wear. However, don’t worry about getting locked into any specific style since any visible armor can be ‘transmogrify-ed’ to resemble another that has been collected, via the Wardrobe in the Lighthouse. There will also be appearance-only armors, such as the Blood Dragon Armor for pre-orders, and casual outfits. You can find these at some merchants and found by exploring over time. This gives the player the ability to tailor Rook’s appearance independent of tantalizing stat boosts and upgrades.
Companions’ Progression
Rook’s Companions are equally important to success as the player endeavors to save Thedas. Members of the Veilguard each have their own Levels and each level gained grants them 2 Skill Points. Each companion will have quests to deepen Rook’s bond with them, and this is one of the main ways for them to gain experience. Companions also can gain experience through unique conversations and decisions with them. These quests and bonds are not limited to romantic interests; platonic friendships are just as important and in focus in Dragon Age: The Veilguard.
Rook will be able to take two Companions on missions. Each Companion has their own set of gear to manage, which can be upgraded and enchanted at the Caretaker’s Workshop, as well. Companions also have Primer and Detonator abilities that can combine with each other or Rook in combat. Each Primer has a matching Detonator. Using the correct combination, a Detonation will trigger – dealing increased damage across an area and increased stagger. For example, as seen in the video, Rook can use Toxic Dash to prime the target with the Sundered status, and Neve detonates it with her Icebreaker Ability.
These videos have highlighted the three main areas of Progression in Dragon Age: The Veilguard. Rook and the Veilguard will grow throughout the game, and there’s plenty of builds to explore. We’ve put the videos all together; so they can be watched uninterrupted! Check out the full video below.
As Rook journeys through Thedas, overcoming challenges, forging alliances, and facing down the corrupt Elven gods, their strength and power will grow. It will be up to the player to define what kind of Rook and Veilguard will emerge from this conflict. Will you be the hero?
We’re in the thick of it now; so we’ll be back soon with more details on missions and exploration! This month, IGN will also be releasing exclusive content; so keep an eye out. Chat soon!
