Compiled List of Frequently Asked Questions... and More!
In collaboration with forum user Rokkrwolf he and I will be posting up a compiled list of frequently asked questions we've found on the forums, in the streams, etc and list them here with the best answers we've found. This is information publicly available and not a result of having direct access to the game.
Please note that this is not official by any means and most if not all answers are subject to change. If you should find something inaccurate please let us know and we will change it. If you find a question that pops up and is deserving of being added, also let us know and we'll get it on here.
This is intended to hopefully cut down on the forum clutter as the game gains more recognition and popularity. So without further ado, Rokkrwolf and I bring you the FAQ's.
Game Overview:
Q. What is Defiance exactly?
A. Defiance™ is the first multi-platform open world third-person shooter, that in a ground-breaking entertainment experience, interconnects with a global television program on Syfy. The game combines the intense action of a console third-person shooter, with the persistence, scale, and customization of an MMO, while its TV counterpart exudes the scope, story, and drama of a classic sci-fi epic.
Being developed for the PC, Xbox 360® video game and entertainment system from Microsoft, and PlayStation®3 computer entertainment system, Defiance unites the MMORPG and Shooter game genres across the most popular platforms.
The game is being developed by Trion Worlds.
Q: How does the game link to the show?
A: There will be a lot of element and key moment's that will crossover between the game and the show. As to the details they don't wish to spoil any for us so they are kept secret.
The characters will for example will have tie in's to the game because they will be travel between the two locations of San Fransico and St. Louis aka "Defiance".
Q. When is the game going to be made available?
A. The game is scheduled for launch on April 2nd, 2013
Q. Is there going to be a subscription fee like your average MMORPG?
A. No. The game is "buy to play". In other words, you purchase the retail copy of the game, and then enjoy the game without having to pay additional fees per month.
Q. How will the consoles and PC's work together? Is this a cross platform game?
A. Right now the game is not looking to be able to support all systems in the same environment at the same time (for release). Though the developers have stated that they currently in a closed environment, have the capability of all systems playing together. It is not expected to be cross platform in that regard for release.
Q. How about players from across the globe? Can I in the U.S. play with someone in the UK?
A. The developers have stated that they are currently evaluating the game and how it will function globally. There is no definitive answer on whether you will or will not be able to play with those across the globe directly.
Q. How many players can play at a single time?
A. You can have hundreds to thousands playing in the same world at a time.
Q. What are the system requirements for the PC?
A. The following is what is described as the beta minimum specs:- Windows XP, Vista, 7, 8
- At least 2 GB System RAM
- Intel Core 2 Duo 2.0 GHz CPU or better
- 512MB video card (NVIDIA GeForce 8600 class or better)
- ATI Radeon HD 2900
- Intel HD 4000 integrated graphics
- DirectX 9.0c
- DirectX 8.1 compatible sound card
- Broadband internet connection or better
- At least 15 GB free hard drive space
Q. What is the background for the map of the game?
A. The map is centered around much of the bay area of San Francisco, California. While the exact dimensions are not yet known, it is EXTREMELY large. So much so that all new players will receive an ATV at the start of the game.
Q: Is there any real difference between what platform you choose to play on?
A: Short answer, no. The only real difference will be the controls. But the experience of the game/missions/side missons ect will all be the same.
Pre-Ordering:
Q. Where can you pre-order the game from?
A. You can currently pre-order the game directly from Trion Worlds, most retailers to include but not limited to: Amazon, Amazon UK, GameStop, GAME, MMORPG.com, Origin, etc.
Q. What are the different types of packages available:
A. There is a full list of digital and retail editions listed here: http://defiance.com/en/pre-order/digital-editions/ Understand that not all retailers will offer each of these packages.
Q. What are "bits" and how much are they worth? What are other explanation of items included in the pre-order packages?
A. For most pre-order answers, view the pre-order FAQ here: http://forums.defiance.com/showthrea...2-Preorder-FAQ
Account Specific:
Q. What are Arkhunter codes?
A. In total there will be (at this time) 120 codes for players to locate. These codes are hidden on websites, in advertisements for the game, and given during live streams from the developers.
These codes when applied to your "Ego" can grant you special bonuses in the game at launch. To apply those codes, visit the following link: http://defiance.com/en/my-ego/
Q. Is there a list somewhere of these codes?
A. A forum user Uberninja has compiled the working codes into a Google Spreadsheet: http://forums.defiance.com/showthrea...de-Spreadsheet You can get those codes from there. You can also discuss with other forum members in the following thread to keep up to date on new codes found or where people have been searching here: http://forums.defiance.com/showthrea...ist-discussion
Q. How does someone get involved in the testing of the game?
A. There are two different ways to get access. The first is through what is being called, "Alpha Testing". This is accomplished by getting a direct invite from the development team through community contributions, stream interactions, etc. This grants you continuous access to the testing of the game in a more private environment.
The second way to gain access is through public "Beta Testing" where codes are given out from the development team on the official site, through streams, or found on various fan websites. These are timed events consisting of a weekend of testing. Thus far there have been three planned events.
Q. How can I increase my chances in becoming an Alpha tester rather than a Beta tester?
A. You'll want to show the development team through the forums, streams, etc that you deserve it. There are no set conditions for obtaining Alpha status.
Character Specific:
Q. When I create a character, can I have different species, sex, etc?
A. Yes. You can have both male and female characters. You can also have alien and human characters. The exact species are not yet released yet.
Q. What is the character background?
A. Each player is an Arkhunter. Which means you hunt down Arkfalls and ArkTech. You are employed by a company called, Von Bach Industries. Your goal is to gather as much of the alien technology as possible.
Q. Is there a level cap or character leveling system?
A. There is, sort of. Characters level, but in the sense that they become more experienced in certain weaponry or actions. You don't traditionally level up to gain access to skills, but are constantly evolving your character how you see fit.
The level cap is not exact, but estimated to be somewhere near 5,000. This equates to a person having played for hundreds if not thousands of hours (an example given by developers was someone who ranked around 300 with an extensive amount of gameplay).
Q. Are there classes?
A. There is an "origin" system. You will pick something that you're comfortable with that starts off with certain perks towards specific weapons (a backstory archetype). But beyond that point, you can venture off into any area of weapons you so desire.
For example, you can start off geared towards Snipers, but then evolve your character around light machineguns without penalty.
There are also things called Ego abilities. There are 4 main abilities/EGO Powers you choose from at the beginning.- Blur - Increases the hosts speed for a limited time allowing the host to more effectively dodge enemy attacks. This also increase melee to full damage against shields.
- Cloak - Renders the host invisible to the enemy. This will also recharge your shields once you cloak. Any damage given or sustained will deactivate it.
- Decoy - Creates a holographic duplicate of the host, momentarily distracting the enemy. Additionally if you use the power again you will swap places with the decoy.
- Overcharge - Applies a bionetic bonus to the host's weapons allowing for greater damage to enemies(10%) and reduces recoil. Additionally it will also instantly reload your current weapon.
There are 48 total abilities/ego powers (possibly more in the future) afterwards to choose from it really depends on your play-style as to what you choose. Essentially in the long run you could possibly obtain all abilities/ego powers.
A good description of how EGO works in the game can be found in the starter video found here: http://youtu.be/LTtup_5yk-Y
Q. What exactly is EGO?
A. EGO stands for Environmental Guardian Online. It is the latest innovation from Von Bach Industries. A symbiotic neuro-muscular bionetic implant, EGO alters its host at the genetic level*, providing encyclopedic heads-up intelligence, while simultaneously unlocking and managing corporeal-maximization, or EGO Powers.
Head to: http://vonbachindustries.com/en/?CAS_REDIR=true for additional information.
Q. How does healing work if there is no medic class?
A. There are medical guns in the game that aid in healing other teammates. These can be used by all players and not restricted to certain types of players.
Q: What's the best winning combo in a game like this?
A: The best winning combo is "Don't die, shoot first."
Q: Will the shields have different abilities?
A: Short answer, Yes. The shields be be very varied and contain different attributes just like the weapons.
Q: What is the penalties in dying?
A: Dying will cost scrip to revive. However there is a "Second wind" feature where if you do get down you can self revive which is on a cooldown after use.
Q: How much will gear impact your stats?
A: The way your stats are impacted is a lot in shield and weapons will do the most impact to your stats. It's still a lot about a players skill. Just because a player has say the best gear in the game doesn't mean he will destroy all the new players. If you are a better player you will win.
Development/Mechanics Specific:
Q. Aliens? What's the deal?
A. The game is set in a period following what is called the "Pale Wars". This was a human and alien war that occurred which changed and shaped the world as we know it. Aliens brought to Earth Arks, which were ultimately destroyed in the wars, and are now fought over by humans and aliens alike.
Q. What are Arkfalls?
A. Arkfalls are events within the game that periodically appear as falling alien technology (Arks) plummets to Earth and become fought over by humans and aliens. The technology (Arktech) gained from these Arkfalls are used in improving human technology.
Basically, think Rift and the events that appeared throughout the game at random times. These are treated in the same way and become co-op battles as you fight alien creatures.
Q. So there are co-op battles, are there missions as well?
A. Yes. The game features an extensive mission questing system as well as group based instances (raids). You can group up with 4 other players in the general questing and complete objectives for NPC's that will yield rewards for you to use throughout the game.
Q. Ok, is there PvP involved too?
A. Yes. There are a number of modes and means of gaining access to PvP that allows you to combat other players. You can level up through PvP gaining access to advanced armor that you can show other players how involved you are.
Q. Is there a PvP lobby? How does joining a match work?
A. You can queue up for PvP and a countdown timer will appear in the top left corner of the UI that will give you updates on when you'll be entering the match. Meanwhile, you can run amok on the main map while you wait.
Q. Does player ranking or Ego rating come into play for PvP?
A. For deathmatch and similar modes, you will be joining matches with similar ranking members to even players out. In open world PvP (Shadow War) ranking does not come much into play.
Q. Is there a separate PvP ranking system?
A. There is a "rep" system and means of gaining notoriety that will allow you access to exclusive PvP outfits, and PvP gear vendors.
Q. Are there PvP rewards, are they greater than PvE rewards?
A. There are rewards, but you do not advance any faster through PvP vs PvE.
Q. So there's PvE and PvP, what specifically can I do in the game?
A. Well there are among several different things you can do in the world.- Main story missions - Self-explanatory. (Can be done cooperatively)
- Side missions - Self-explanatory. (Can be done cooperatively)
- Hotshot - No info as of yet.
- Time Trial - No info as of yet.
- Rampage - No info as of yet.
- Emergency - No info as of yet.
- Raids - Join up and attack enemy strongholds.
- Random missions - Such as saving farmers, repairing objectives, these will show up randomly while traveling. (Automatically cooperatively for anyone in the area)
- Competitive Multiplayer - TDM, Cap and Hold, Gather resources and bring them back (16vs16, 32 players)
- Shadow War - A major pvp objective-based event held in the overworld. It is completely a opt-in event. You will see this happening around the world and even able to spectate watching the other players battle it out. Or jump in yourself and cause mass mayhem. (Up to 96 players max)
- Co-op/Dungeons Instances - Self explanatory, enemies will scale depending on the amount of players. (Currently only up to 4 players)
- Arkfalls - Random server event that happens in random locations around the world. There are several types of Arkfalls.
- Minor - Small amounts of arktech, random enemies.
- Raider Decimation - Small amounts of arktech, this involves Raider enemies.
- Scrapper Disruption Small amounts of arktech, this involves Scapper enemies.
- Major - Enormous amounts of arktech rain into the planet, with dark blackening skies, this will attract Hellbugs and the infamous Hellbug Hellion.
- Hellbug Extermination - Major arkfall, this involves several waves of Hellbug enemies followed by a Hellbug Hellion at the most major crash site.
- Misc. Challenges - Additionally to a few of these there will be additional challenges to complete.
Q. Can you turn on/off the weapon hit damage numbers?
A. Absolutely.
Q: Is the a cover system?
A: There isn't a sticky cover mechanic system like you might see in Ghost Recon Online. But of course you can crouch behind things. There is also no proning in the game. Consider this to be more of a fast paced action game.
Q: Is there a night and day cycle to the world?
A: Short answer, Yes.
Vehicles:
Q. What types of vehicles are there? Can I have an air vehicle?
A. There are a number of ground vehicles to include but not limited to:- A-Tex Growler Pro / Extreme
- Ceberus
- Challenger
- Hannibal 800TR Quad
- Hauler
- Rollers
- Titan combat utility vehicle
- Transport
They can be geared for different purposes such as mobile spawn locations, transports, weapon platforms, etc. There are currently no air vehicles in the game due to Arkfalls and the dangers of the sky.
Q. Do vehicles respawn, are they instant, etc?
A. In short no, there is a cooldown associated with how the vehicle mechanics work.
For instance if a vehicle is destroyed the cooldown may take longer, if you just get off the cooldown will be much shorter.
Q. Can vehicles be customized?
A. Yes, you'll be able to change skins/colors, weaponry, and more as its associated to the vehicle.
Q. Is there a racing element to the game?
A. Yes. You can access region races where the top time is displayed on a leaderboard for those involved.
Social Elements:
Q. Can we have clans and friends in-game?
A. Yes, there is a clan system that is being implemented into the game. It is unknown if it will be ready for the release. You can currently send invites to other players and group with them in-game (up to 4 in a group).
Q. Will there be crafting system?
A. The Salvage Matrix will essentially be the tool you use to modify/customize your weapons and outfit. So short answer yes in it's own form. But in the form of actual crafting such as finding parts and making a weapon then no, maybe possibly after launch.
Q. How does looting work in the game?
A. The game used a system of shared loot. What you kill becomes shared among your group. If you are solo and you kill something, you do not need to be worried about someone else coming along and taking your rare items. Some common loot is shared among all involved based upon your involvement in the kill.
Q. What kind of loot can you expect?
A: Kills will drop such things as "scrips", ammo, shields and weapons. Some of them like the bits and ammo will auto pickup. Where as the shields and weapons you will need to press a button to pick them up.
Q. Is there a hub city or safe zone?
A. There are NPC owned properties aka "Hot Spots" and areas where you can visit and interact with one another and NCP's. Each region has areas like this that players can interact with each other and socialize.
Q. Does the game feature VOIP (Voice over IP)?
A. Yes it does. In one of the dev streams, you can clearly hear members of a team talking during a PvP match.
Q. How many Factions are in the game?
A. There will be many different factions throughout the game. These are the following factions that we currently know of (more TBD):- Top-Notch Toolworks
- Soleptor Enterprises
- Von Bach Industries
- Echelon
- Paradise Territory
Hostile factions include:- Dark Matter
- Hellbugs (scientific name Scylla Formicida)
- Earth Military Coalition or Mutants
- Ninety-Niners
- Raiders
- Scrappers
Each faction will have their own reputation system, like WoW, the more reputation the better unlocks/rewards you can get from them.
Q. Are there going to be achievements?
A. Yes there are standard achievements for both XBOX 360 and PS3. But additionally Defiance has it's own achievements to keep the players always progressing towards something. They are called "Pursuits" as you complete more pursuits it will unlock more content.
Q:Are there emotes and what emotes can we expect to see?
A: Short answer, Yes. There are several emotes players can use (subject to change as they may add more):
Additionally there are commands you can use to talk to other players or call them to help. Here is a list:- Help
- Follow
- Get In
- Get Out
- Go
- Stay
Weaponry Specific:
Q. What different types of weapons can we use? And will they have different types of ammo/abilities?
A. These are the follow types of weapons listed that we know of:- Assault Rifles
- Bio-Magnetic Guns
- Bolt-Action Sniper Rifles
- Combat Shotguns
- Detonators (Grenade Launchers)
- Grenades
- Infectors
- Light Machine Guns
- Pistols
- Pump Shotguns
- Rocket Launchers (Guided)
- Sawed-Off Shotguns
- Semi-Auto Sniper Rifles
- Sub Machine Guns
Different type's of ammo/variations will depend on the weapon type and the modifications you add to it or pickup on the weapons. For example you can pickup/find a weapon with incendiary on it but you want corrosive you can use the "Salvage Matrix" to modify the weapon and change the effect.
*Additionally to the character leveling system there will be a weapon type leveling system as well. The more you use a certain type of weapon eventually you will level and it will raise the stats for that weapon type.
**There are a number of damage types to include but not limited to:- Syphon
- Corrosive
- Incidnary
- Radiation
- Eletricity
***There will be 5 additional load outs, which you will be able to swap out on the fly after you unlock them.
Q. Will there be certain points on enemies that will do more damage, will hitboxes be effected?
A. In short yes, but there are different aspects to weapons depending on the damage. For example a sniper rifle will do a lot more damage with a headshot opposed to a body shot. And a shotgun will do more damage to a body shot than a headshot.
There will be weak points on boss etc to aim for to do extra damage.
This is a true pixel perfect shooter "Where you aim is where you shoot", so using the shotgun as a example it's true pellet simulation. When fired it has a certain amount of pellets, the amount of damage done to a player, depends on how many of those pellets actually hit.
Hitboxes for male and female characters is balanced to be the same to not give advantage over using different types of characters.
Q. Is there a melee attack?
A. Absolutely. You can use both a striking attack (similar to a buttstroke) but also equip certain weapons with melee enhancements like bayonets that will increase melee damage. Certain EGO skills also have melee increases.
Expansions:
Q. Will there be expansions for the game?
A. Yes. The exact details of when they will be released, their content, and more has not yet been explained.
