Summary
XDefiantbecame Ubisoft’s fastest-ever game to reach one million unique users, according to an established insider’s sources. 48 hours after its launch,XDefianthad reached an even more impressive number of players, as Ubisoft looks to maintain the success of its newest hit.
Ever since its announcement,XDefianthas been positioned by many as aCall of Dutycompetitordue to its resemblance toCoDtitles from earlier in the 21st century. However,XDefianthas thrown in plenty of features to set itself apart from Activision’s megalithic franchise, whether that be faction abilities, a modern but relatively stripped-down movement system, or the surprising decision to ditch skill-based matchmaking altogether. WhileXDefiantstill has a long road ahead if it intends to challengeCoD’s supremacy in the genre, it seems to be off to a fantastic start.
In addition toXDefiant’s impressive feat of reaching one million unique players within two and a half hours, the game also went on to reach over three million unique users within 48 hours of its launch, perInsider Gaming’s sources. Also, over 500,000 concurrent users were logged in toXDefiantat one point on launch day, despite server issues that have since been fixed. Since Ubisoft usually doesn’t publicly share its player numbers, it’s unclear whereXDefiantnow stands about 72 hours after its launch, but it seems unlikely that its success will slow down in the immediate future.
XDefiant’s Record-Breaking Start
XDefiant’s core gameplay appears to be a hit with many players despite its early bugs and server complications, so it seems the game’s continued success could come down to post-launch support and future development decisions. Ubisoft’s devs just releasedXDefiant’s first update, which included various fixes for the Practice Zone, netcode, and other gameplay problems.
Recently, a seniorXDefiantdev also confirmed that a hit registration patchis in the works, although a release window for the update is still unknown. The game is set to receive its major Season 1 update sometime this summer, possibly on July 2 if it begins immediately after the preseason concludes, which has a confirmed runtime of six weeks.
Despite the early issues,XDefianthas been well-receivedby both community figures and players. AAA arena-style FPS titles have been rare releases in recent years, partially due to the massive popularity of the battle royale format, butXDefiantseems to be turning into the subgenre’s first success story in a while.
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.
