Apex Legends just announced a big new update titled Apex Legends: Shockwave, which will release on August 6th. Among the new features is a fresh map called E-District, looking to satisfy fans craving a cyberpunk atmosphere, or just more of Cyberpunk 2077.
This new locale is a dense, action-packed urban city, with a lot of fast-paced and continuous action thanks to its map design. E-District is the sixth map in the game and the first since November of last year.
E-District is the New Playground in Apex Legends
E-District is set in a futuristic cityscape, with high-rise buildings and neon lights reminiscent of the world in Cyberpunk 2077, and pretty much any Cyberpunk-inspired game. This map has a gritty past, featuring blackouts, riots, and a chemical attack at Humbert Labs. However, the Mercenary Syndicate has revitalized it for the Apex Games, making it a battleground for the heroes of the game.
Respawn Entertainment devs describe this new map as a close-quarters map designed for quick verticality and tons of action. Players will need to master the art of movement to dominate this map, especially using wall tech to navigate the environment swiftly. The dense urban setting ensures non-stop encounters and a high level of engagement due to being tightly packed at times.
In addition to the new map, the Shockwave update introduces a few more fun things. Revival is a new twist on respawning, allowing players to come back into the game without needing banners or respawn beacons. As long as one squadmate remains standing, downed players will respawn on a timer, which increases with each death and round.
Another nice little addition is the Akimbo mode for guns, where players can dual-wield two P2020s or two Mozambiques. This mode has an increased rate of fire and replicated attachments for both of these weapons. While aiming will tighten the hipfire spread instead of using optics, players can toggle back to a single weapon if needed. This is deifnitely going to be a pretty fun new mechanic to mess around with.
Apex Legends’ Recent Controversy
The Shockwave update comes after a recent controversy surrounding the changes to the Battle Pass system in Apex Legends. Initially, Respawn Entertainment announced that the Battle Pass would only be purchasable with real money, removing the option to use in-game currency, Apex Coins. This upset a lot of fans who have been playing the game for years without depending on real money to buy the battle passes.
This change also included the introduction of two shorter Battle Passes per season, offering the same amount of rewards. The community quickly pointed out that this move would negatively impact long-time players who had accumulated Apex Coins.
In response to the backlash, Respawn Entertainment has decided to revert the controversial changes and have it be purchasable for 950 Apex Coins, just like before. On top of this, Respawn introduced a rewards program that would help players unlock the Premium Battle Pass by completing quick in-game challenges.
This move has been extremely well-received by the community, who appreciate Respawn’s willingness to listen to their feedback and make necessary adjustments rather quickly.
Are you looking forward to the update? Let us know in the comments.
