Howdy, Stranger!
It looks like you're new here. If you want to get involved, click one of these buttons!
Quick Links
***Preliminary*** Version 1.3 Patch Notes
Mykell
Member UncommonPosts: 780
http://forum.globalagendagame.com/phpbb/viewtopic.php?f=207&t=18610&st=0&sk=t&sd=a
PRELIMINARY Version 1.3(A) Public Test Server Patch Notes
Note: All features are subject to change until completion of public server testing and release of the final patch notes. This represents the patch notes for the Public Test Server release, not for a Live Server release. Notes may be updated during Testing.
Version 1.3(A) introduces major new features and content to the game, including a new system for loot and acquiring weapons, a new token reward system, over 25 brand new weapons (each with 4 quality variations), changes to the Upgrades/Crafting system, five new maps, improvements to the user interface, and more.
General Notes
For testing purposes, Version 1.3 is being released to the Public Test Server in phases. Version 1.3(A) represents the first phase of a multi-phase set of feature upgrades. Once we are comfortable with each phase of functionality, we will release the next phase to the Public Test Server.
The sequencing and timing of deployment to the Live servers will be dictated by what is found in Public Test Server testing.
In future phases, we will be introducing Alliance vs Alliance changes, Open PvE Zones, a 64-person PvP Warzone and much more, coming to the Public Test Server soon. For a discussion of the currently planned development roadmap and the reasoning for the phased implementation, visit here.
Tester Guidance
The Public Test Server is not expected to go live until late on Friday, May 7 (USA Time). Once live, availability of the test server may be sporadic as changes and updates are made or other Hi-Rez internal testing needs are fulfilled. Follow GATestSvrStatus on Twitter for updates on the test-server status.
For the weekend of May 7 - 10, 2010, we will be focusing on early-level progression with the new weapon system. All players logging into the Public Test Server will need to create new characters for this weekend's test. Please complete the tutorial and then progress your character.
To access the Public Test Server Client, go to the TOOLS menu on Steam, and look for "Global Agenda Public Test Client". You should be able to login using your normal Global Agenda credentials, however, the user name database is synchronized on a scheduled basis and you may need to use your old password if you recently changed password. If you just bought the game, you may also have issues logging in.
Use "/bug" and/or the VERSION 1.3(A) TEST forum to report problems.
Importantly note that you can play PvE missions solo or in a group of less than 4 by checking the flag SMALL TEAM CHALLENGE on the queue (although it can be quite difficult). If you are looking for a challenge, we would specifically like to see how quickly someone can complete Medium Security solo, and whether High Security can be completed solo.
There are a number of known issues and incomplete features that are being worked on ahead of live deployment. For a list, see thread on the Version 1.3 Test Forums (note: We are still going through our own internal testing rounds, so more will be added over time).
Weapon Acquisition and Upgrades
Weapons now carry a quality level (Common, Uncommon, Rare, Epic). The distinction of Rank 1 to Rank 4 weapons, as well as the system to manage Device Points to control what you can equip within each slot, has been removed.
Weapons are now obtained through the following means (versus being automatically acquired when you level up):-
Common weapons can be purchased from a Vendor in Dome City using credits.
Rare and Epic weapons can be obtained from a Vendor in Dome City using Mercenary Tokens (more below).
Special weapons (all of Epic quality) can be obtained from a Vendor in Dome City using Conquest Tokens (more below).
Weapons of all quality levels can be obtained as loot for winning a Mercenary PvP mission, or killing a boss in a PvE mission. Low and Medium PvE missions drop only Common and Uncommon weapons. Higher level PvE will drop higher-quality loot (based on a dice roll). Mercenary PvP drops all quality levels of weapons (based on a dice roll).
Weapons that drop as loot will have randomly generated stats based on their quality level, creating 1,000's of possible unique weapons, each designated by up to 3 characters after the name (for instance: Vulture Vision [TTC]).
You may receive weapon loot that does not unlock until you reach a later level. You will see this noted on your Agent Profile.
Weapons now degrade over use. Once a weapon is fully degraded, its stats will reflect those of a common weapon until repaired. (So, after repeated use, an Epic weapon will eventually have Common stats unless repaired.)
When you first enter the game after the patch, all weapons will be removed from your inventory except for the base starter set that comes from the tutorial. You may go to the Vendor in Dome City to purchase new weapons. All pre-existing characters will be given 1,000 credits for each level (so, a Level 50 player will get 50,000 credits) to purchase initial weapons with.
Weapons are automatically bound to character and cannot be put on the Auction House or mailed.
Given the volume of weapon changes, players should review each weapon's stats at the vendor or on the Agent Profile screen to understand the current weapon stats.
Armor
Armor increases your health, allowing you to live longer in battle. Armor comes in various quality levels (Common, Uncommon, Rare, Epic). There are seven armor slots (Head, Shoulders, Chest, Arms, Hands, Legs, Feet).
You may purchase Armor at Hawk's Suits and Armor store in Dome City, or receive Armor as loot from PvE missions. Importantly note that Suits and Helmets (also sold at Hawk's) are cosmetic only and do not modify stats. Armor modifies stats only and does not change your character's look.
Upgrades
The old system of "Upgrades" has been eliminated and replaced with a new system of "Modifications", or "Mods."
"Weapons Mods" enhance stats on individual weapons.
"Armor Mods", enhance stats on Armor.
Modifications (Mods) and Crafting
Weapon Mods are craftable items that improve stats on an individual weapon. Use the Item Modification Shop to apply a mod to a specific weapon.
Armor Mods improve stats on Armor. Use the Item Modification Shop to apply an Armor Mod.
Modifications come in varying quality levels (Common, Uncommon, Rare, Epic). Any level Modification can be applied to any level Armor or Weapon (so, you could apply an Epic Modification to a Common Weapon if desired).
Modifications are crafted from materials earned as loot in PvE or purchased on the Auction House, using Blueprints purchased from a vendor in the Crafting area of Dome City. (Note: Blueprints no longer drop as loot in PvE).
Non-subscribers are limited to crafting Uncommon Mods only (Crafting Level = 100).
Trial users may now craft (Uncommon items only).
Mission Queuing
Players will default to a Mission Server (North America, Europe, PacRim) based on their IP address. You may still opt to use another server, but your preference will be reset on each login.
The MISSION screen has undergone a significant UI overhaul.
Special Ops (Co-Op PvE)
A new option has been added as a checkbox on the the Special Ops Queue for "Small Team Challenge". This is defaulted off for all players and can only be checked by subscribers (once subs start). If checked, you will enter the selected Special Ops mission with only your current teammates, regardless of team size (up to 4 players). If you queue solo, you will enter the mission solo. The mission difficulty is the same as if you entered the mission with a full team, but your potential for loot and XP is greater if you are able to fully complete the mission.
Low and Medium Security missions now have both Mine and Factory maps in their rotation. Previously, Low Security had only Mine maps and Medium Security had only Factory maps, so this effectively doubles the maps in rotation under each mission type.
High Security, Maximum Security and Double Agent PvE are subscription only (once subs start).
Arena
You may now join the Arena queues solo or as a partial team and you will be match-made into a full team.
A 10v10 Arena (PvP) queue has been added. You may join this queue solo or in a pre-made team of up to 10 players. Currently, the gameplay highlights two new Scramble-format maps: Trafalgar and BlackwaterLoch.
A new 4v4 Arena map has been added: Osprey.
The Arena gameplay is subscriber only (once subs start).
User Interface
Patch 1.3 introduces the first stage of a User Interface makeover for the game. Some menus and screens have been adapted fully to the new UI; others have not. Additional UI changes will be added in upcoming phases.
Character Progression
The Skill Trees have undergone changes for balance and to accommodate the new weapon systems. The UI has also undergone significant enhancement.
Players will see an improved animation when they level up.
Once players reach Level 50, they will now earn additional credits instead of accumulating additional XP. Players that reached Level 50 before the 1.3 patch will be granted an allotment of credits when upgraded, and their XP reset to point at which they reached Level 50.
A variety of new Epic-level weapons unlock between levels 30 and 50.
Token System
Players may now earn both Conquest and Mercenary tokens through participation in missions, in addition to credits (in-game money).
Mercenary tokens are used to purchase high-quality (rare and epic) weapons/armor from the standard weapon set (available to all levels).
Conquest tokens are used to purchase special weapons/armor available only to Levels 30+. Conquest tokens are not earned for playing missions until Level 30; you can earn Conquest tokens through AvA and the subscriber bonus prior to Level 30.
Each token type has a limit that can be earned per day. Subscribers have a higher limit than non-subscribers.
Subscribers automatically earn 20 Mercenary tokens and 4 Conquest tokens each day (even if they do not play). In addition, they have the opportunity to earn up to 20 additional Mercenary tokens and 6 Conquest tokens each day through playing missions, or through participating in an agency that owns hexes in AvA.
Non-subscribers can earn a maximum of 20 Mercenary tokens and 2 Conquest tokens each day through playing missions, or through participating in an agency that owns hexes in AvA.
Subscribers can hold a maximum of 200 Conquest tokens and 400 Mercenary tokens in their inventory. Non-subscribers can hold a maximum of 100 Conquest tokens and 200 Mercenary tokens.
Tokens are earned at the "player" level (i.e., shared across all of your characters). They cannot be mailed or sold on the Auction House.
The <<<following article -- to be published later>>> more fully describes how Conquest and Mercenary tokens can be earned.
New Weapons
A variety of new weapons have been added to the game. Inspect each weapons stats and description at the class-specific Vendors in Dome City.
All classes
-
Handsfree Jetpack
Combat Jetpack (Level 40)
Recon-
Dual Daggers (Melee, Level 32)
Raven SMG (Ranged, Level 34)
Deconstructor (Offhand, Level 36)
Vulture Vision (Offhand, Level 38)
Targeting System (Specialty, Level 42)
Shatter Bomb Boost (Morale Boost, Level 44)
Medic-
Life Stealer (Melee, Level 32)
Rockwind SMG (Ranged, Level 34)
Soul Stealer (Offhand, Level 36)
Multi-Boost Beam (Specialty, Level 38)
Triage Wave (Offhand, Level 42)
Oathbreaker Boost (Morale Boost, Level 44)
Assault-
Impact Hammer (Melee, Level 32)
Rhino SMG (Ranged, Level 34)
Beserk (Offhand, Level 36)
Longbow Launcher (Specialty, Level 38)
Overcharge (Offhand, Level 42)
Super Smash Boost Morale (Morale Boost, Level 44)
Robotics-
Mace and Shield (Melee, Level 32)
Harken SMG (Ranged, Level 34)
Flame Turret (Offhand, Level 36)
Nanite Repair (Specialty, Level 42)
Force Target (Specialty, Level 38)
Personal Vandal Robot (Morale Boost, Level 44)
New and Modified Vendors (Dome City)
Cyber Cuts - Now Open! Change your avatar's hair style and color. This vendor includes exclusive hair styles and the ability to add secondary hair color.
Recon Gear - Purchase class specific gear (Recon). Basic weapons and armor for credits, Mercenary (Rare and Epic) weapons and armor for mercenary tokens. Advanced (new) weapons for conquest tokens.
Assault Gear - Purchase class specific gear. (Assault)
Medic Gear - Purchase class specific gear (Medic)
Robotics Gear - Purchase class specific gear (Robotics)
Prototyping Center - Crafting Stations are used to craft Mods. A new Item Mod station allows crafted Mods to be applied to Weapons or Armor
Hawks - Purchase Armor (that affects your stats) in addition to Apparel (Suits and Helmets) that are visual only
Agent Profile
The Agent Profile screen has undergone substantial UI modification.
Players may now inspect other players (i.e., view how they are equipped and their stats) by selecting the player in your reticule when in Dome City and right-clicking.
Voice
Trial users may now use in-game voice but may occasionally hear 5- to 15-second audio ads. Players that buy the gamewill not have advertisements. Voice can be configured or disabled through the SETTINGS | SOUND menu.
Players may now access out-of-game voice through http://www.globalagendagame.com/voice (requires installation of the Vivox Toolbar, available for Internet Explorer, Firefox and Chrome). This can be used to talk to your Agency mates or others in lieu of a dedicated voice server such as Teamspeak or Ventrillo, even when playing other games outside of Global Agenda <<<<MORE WILL BE RELEASED LATER>>>>
Achievements
40+ badges have been added for Achievements (displayed on Stats screen, which can be inspected by others).
Chat
The ENTER key may now be rebound as the method to enter chat.
A Trade channel has been added.
A Looking for Group channel has been added.
Trial users are not able to talk in certain chat channels more than twice a minute.
The chat emote system has been added, allowing you to emote individual players on certain commands. For instance, "/wave HirezStew" will wave at HirezStew. Currently included emotes are: Agree, bye, dance, disagree, followme, hello, hug, laugh, no, nod, point, positive, sigh, thank, wait, wave, welcome.
Matchmaking
Adjustments have been made to the algorithm for determining user skill, which is utilized for PvP match-making. Some players may see changes to their Combat Stars based on these adjustments. The new algorithm more heavily favors your most recent matches than the old approach.
Other
DirectX 10 is now supported. You may specify whether to use DirectX 10 on the VIDEO tab of the SETTINGS menu. You must restart the game client after a change for it to go into effect.
On the Settings menu, Mouse Sensitivity can now be set with a numerical value (versus just the slider).
Adjusting Mouse Sensitivity on the Settings menu now also adjusts the Camera Control on the XBox 360 Controller for Windows.
The position and look of the "You've Got Mail" icon has changed to make it more easily seen.
Improved notification raining system for alerting users of the need to do certain activities.
Support for Limited Edition Auction Items, to be placed on the Auction House by Hi-Rez. Show as a new category and in a special color.
Comments
I hope this will go live soon, I can't wait to burn noobs with a flame turret
"Of all tyrannies, a tyranny sincerely exercised for the good of its victims may be the most oppressive. It would be better to live under robber barons than under omnipotent moral busybodies. The robber baron's cruelty may sometimes sleep, his cupidity may at some point be satiated; but those who torment us for our own good will torment us without end for they do so with the approval of their own conscience"
CS Lewis
I love my robo too. yesterday i have made High sec with just, mine robo 50 + assault 22..and we did 0/6.
Good thing they are doing this in phases, 1st and test and 1st on live.....4th on test then on live,, and that monthly fee, i hope it will be like that.
Nice
You may go to the Vendor in Dome City to purchase new weapons. All pre-existing characters will be given 1,000 credits for each level (so, a Level 50 player will get 50,000 credits) to purchase initial weapons with.
Ohh thats bad:
High Security, Maximum Security and Double Agent PvE are subscription only (once subs start).
Only low / normal for one time buyers :-/
How then non subs will get exp to lvl50+, if he only have low/med? theres no exp after lvl 20 on medium sec hehe, this will be fun, at this point lvl 40-50 not paying subs have nothing really to do, crafting uncommon items maybe, well lest w8 for 10'mans zone, i am guessing the it can be complete with 4 ppl, or will be only for subs to. Time will tell.
They can still do pvp, you get xp and credits through that. Still a bad idea to change it to sub only, the base pve maps were always said to be free.
I know they will...but higher sec...more xp.....we can solo low/med....trail can play low/med...ok nice new gear to test...on low/med :-/ it was said subs will get conquest ...but high/max isnt Conquest to me. I have bought game, i knew what will be..but they never said they will take those high/max from us.
Since there have been many comments on what non-subscribers will get for PvE I would like to offer the following:
First a bit of background:
When we created the one time vs. subscriber model we tried our best to accommodate two different groups of players. MMO players vs Shooter player.
A typical shooter has some PvE but typically very brief and in many cases mostly to train the player on how to play the game. At the same time, most shooters offer different maps and game-play modes that players get to play as often as they like.
That's what we tried to emulate in our one time purchase. In addition we provide some big benefits like hosting all the games, mail, agency support, customer service, and ongoing PvP content, this is already beyond any typical shooter.
For the more tradition MMO fans our plan was to offer extended PvE and PvP content, systems and game play types.
As a result of us not being satisfied with the level of content we had available for the MMO game play we decided not to charge for subscriptions until we believed the game was farther along. Instead of turning off the ‘MMO’ elements and just leaving the shooter parts of the game we gave everyone access to everything the game has ( AvA, Crafting, high level PvE content, etc) until we are ready for subscriptions..
So what’s the plan:
There are a lot of new features and content coming in 1.3 (and later) but we now have to start separating the subscription functionality from the one time purchase. We worked hard to come up with systems that will allow the one time purchase players stay competitive and have fun, but at the same time we need subscriptions to allow us to continue supporting the game to it’s fullest potential.
In this case, something will be taken away from non-subscribers (current PvE content) and be replaced with a different set of content. non-subscribers (and subscribers) will have access to the new open zone in the dome city desert with both quests and co-op mission that will allow them to level up. The co-op missions will have different levels of difficulty and allow a player to keep getting xp and credits all the way to 50. The limitation of those missions is that at higher levels they will not drop as much loot as the commonwealth co-op missions or have as many maps, but will allow players to level up (and get loot) that is equivalent to what they would get from PvP missions
I'm not at all happy with them taking away high-sec pve from people who paid for the game but don't subscribe.
I have to agree it's pretty bad.
"If all you can say is... "It's awful, it's not innovative, it's ugly, it's blah.." Then you're an unimaginative and unpolished excuse for human life" -eburn
Least you get new content in other areas. But since you get better loot in High Sec, makes sense to offer this to subs and not freebees.
Yeah I understand why they offer it to subs. They need more money and it's a way to get some people to subscribe to the game.
taking things away from people that paid for your game is a really bad idea. Why not just make the new stuff subscriber only? I think that is a much better solution. We can all login to do the high and max sec missions right now, so why would that be an incentive to subscribe? Once they release the new content, I am sure I would be more likely to subscribe to see it, than to subscribe to play the same stuff I have been playing all along :
Just my thoughts.
Sandstorm is altering the game in everyway. You gain a heck of alot more than you lose.
I don't disagree completely as I haven't played it on test yet. However, I think the "get more than you lose" statement will have to be proven once 1.3 phase 1 & 2 come out.