Highlights

  • Players frustrated with XDefiant's bunny hopping mechanic find it disruptive and unbalanced.
  • Ubisoft responds to player concerns with updates addressing hit registration issues and game mode fixes.
  • Developer plans to introduce aim-sway penalty to counter jump spamming while maintaining skillful gameplay.

XDefiant players are expressing frustration over the game's bunny hopping mechanic, describing it as insufferable and disruptive to gameplay. XDefiant, Ubisoft’s fast-paced first-person shooter, has been somewhat a topic of heated discussion since its launch. The game, which combines elements from various Ubisoft franchises, quickly gained popularity, setting a record as the company's fastest game to reach one million users within two and a half hours. Despite its success, players have voiced concerns about certain gameplay mechanics, particularly the bunny hopping or air strafing movement, which many find frustrating and unbalanced.

The first major update for XDefiant has been released recently, which includes fixes for hit registration issues and the reactivation of the Practice Zone game mode. This update highlights Ubisoft's dedication to improving the game and responding to player concerns promptly. The reactivation of the Practice Zone allows players to complete associated challenges, though some minor issues may persist as Ubisoft continues to refine the mode.

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Player complaints about bunny hopping in XDefiant have been widespread, with many describing the erratic "air strafing" as particularly frustrating. The ability to change direction mid-air makes it difficult for opponents to land accurate shots, leading to calls for a more balanced approach. An XDefiant player recently posted a gameplay clip on Reddit that shows how irritating air strafing can be. Most players and commenters on the post agree that this mechanism can ruin gameplay for them, while some think that if air strafing is not removed from the game, people will continue to exploit it.

XDefiant Player Shows How Gamers Exploit Air Strafing

An XDefiant developer recently addressed these complaints, revealing plans to introduce an aim-sway penalty to counter jump spamming without completely eliminating jump-shotting. This mechanic is designed to make jump spamming more challenging by adding an aim-sway penalty for players who perform excessive jumps or crouches, making it harder to aim accurately. This update aims to balance the gameplay while maintaining the skillful elements that XDefiant is known for.

In addition to addressing the bunny hopping mechanic, Ubisoft has announced significant changes to sniper rifles in XDefiant, following player feedback about their overpowered nature. The development team plans to introduce a flinch mechanic, which will make it harder for players to maintain accuracy while taking hits, rather than reducing the damage output.

Furthermore, XDefiant is set to receive a new Far Cry-inspired map named "Signal." This addition, featuring vibrant and immersive environments, is expected to enhance the gameplay experience and keep the game fresh. XDefiant's unique blend of factions and continuous updates showcase Ubisoft's commitment to maintaining player engagement and addressing feedback. Despite the challenges, XDefiant's ability to adapt and innovate could secure its place in the competitive FPS market.

xdefiant
XDefiant

Ubisoft's XDefiant is an online PvP shooter that focuses on fast-paced team-based gameplay. Taking inspiration from the publisher's popular IPs, the game features factions and characters that represent franchises like Splinter Cell and Far Cry. Available on most modern systems, XDefiant is a free-to-play project.

Platform(s)
PC , PS5 , Xbox Series X , Xbox Series S
Released
May 21, 2024
Developer(s)
Ubisoft San Francisco
Publisher(s)
Ubisoft
Genre(s)
FPS