We know it's been a little quiet on our end recently, but that’s only because we’ve been hard at work behind the scenes on an important update.
Today, we’re tackling one of the more critical issues: the steep learning curve for new players.
Why This Matters
We've been investigating this problem and we've found that while plenty of new players try WW3, only a small number stick around after the first few days. The main reasons are that they are matched against seasoned veterans and lack the knowledge and tools to compete with them.
That's what we started to address a few patches ago with new, much more powerful default loadouts and balance changes, but this patch brings our most significant improvements yet.
The main difference: a new matchmaking algorithm for new players, a new map for them, and the addition of bots.
How it works
Now new players will play their first 2 matches against each other and bots only. No veterans allowed.
This will allow them to learn the basics in a safe, stress-free environment.
The Ruins of Gobi map was designed specifically for new players, and with the latest changes, it will finally fulfill that role.
At the same time, if there aren't enough players in the queue - bots will come to help: all free slots in Stronghold mode matches will now be filled with bots. They will try to accomplish the task of capturing the point on the map and killing enemies along the way. Don't worry though, they are not merciless killing machines yet, they have been specifically designed to be easy targets.
After the first 2 matches, new players will be placed in regular lobbies for the time being.
That's just the first step. We want to continue to improve the matchmaking system and guide new players on their journey to mastery of WW3. We have more changes in the works and will announce them when the time is right.
Ruins of Gobi improved
The Ruins of Gobi map has also been significantly improved: we've made changes to the map layout to alleviate some of the bottlenecks we noticed. We've also made a lot of art style changes to make the map feel much more alive.
Helping new players to learn the ropes
We've also added daily and weekly challenges to the main screen, so new players will have some goals to accomplish.
We plan to add more challenges specifically for them, as the old ones may no longer be relevant.
Performance optimizations
At the same time, we continue to work on optimizing the game. The following maps should now perform better: Shibuya, Moscow, Moscow Senate, Berlin Backyards.
List of changes
Gameplay Optimization
- Training bots have been added to the starting map “Ruins of Gobi” to help new players adapt
- Players are now divided into newcomers (first 2 matches) and the main pool
- Stronghold matches will now auto-fill with bots when necessary
Map Update
- A new flank route has been added to the “Ruins of Gobi” map to enhance tactical possibilities
- Art style improvements
- Lighting fixes
New Content
- Five new offers have been added to the launcher shop. Each includes:
- A unique operator
- A pre-configured weapon loadout
- Some offers are themed for May 8th and 9th (Victory in Europe Day)
Technical Improvements
- Patch file sizes have been optimized to reduce launcher update times and improve delivery via Steam CDN
- Asset and lighting optimization on following maps: Shibuya, Moscow, Moscow Senate, Berlin Backyards
UI Update
- Daily and weekly challenges added to the main screen
