Recent insider information suggests that the next server test session for XDefiant is on the horizon, tentatively scheduled for April 19. However, as with all things in development, this date is subject to change. Ubisoft recently acknowledged an impending server test session without specifying the exact date, following the disappointing news of another delay in the release of XDefiant.
In a recent announcement in late March, Ubisoft disclosed that the launch of XDefiant had to be postponed yet again due to incomplete features. Originally slated for release by the end of Q1 2024 following an initial delay from October 2023, the game's launch has now been postponed indefinitely. Ubisoft has indicated that a new release date will be finalized after the conclusion of the next server test session for XDefiant, which seems imminent.
According to Tom Henderson from Insider Gaming, Ubisoft is gearing up for the next server test session of XDefiant spanning from April 19 to April 21, accessible on PC, PS5, and Xbox Series X/S. While Ubisoft initially mentioned a limited 12-hour test session, insiders suggest that the beta phase might extend until Sunday, barring any major setbacks. Nevertheless, this information remains unverified and should be treated as such, given the unpredictable development journey of XDefiant thus far.
XDefiant's Anticipated Server Test Session Likely Starting on April 19
The previous server test session for XDefiant showcased an array of maps, modes, and weapons for participants to explore. While the specifics of the upcoming session remain undisclosed, it is expected to offer a similar experience with potential new additions. XDefiant has been embroiled in controversies over the past year, with the game's director refuting claims that delays were linked to Ubisoft's efforts to incorporate more features inspired by the success of Call of Duty.
The director of XDefiant clarified that delays stemmed from technical challenges unrelated to CoD-like elements. Despite the delays, XDefiant draws significant influence from Call of Duty, featuring a fast-paced gameplay style and positioning itself as a major competitor to Activision's renowned franchise.
Players are optimistic that XDefiant can surpass Call of Duty by refining its contentious features while maintaining its strengths. Ubisoft has confirmed that XDefiant excludes skill-based matchmaking except in ranked modes, offering a boot camp mode tailored for beginners. Moreover, the game adopts a free-to-play model unlike Call of Duty and its annual releases. The decision to eliminate skill-based matchmaking entirely in an FPS setting is bold, and its success remains to be seen, provided Ubisoft sticks to this strategy.