Content has been edited for clarity from original source.
After providing an early tease of what is to come for Season 3 of The Cycle: Frontier, YAGER is back yet again to talk more about what players can expect when they jump in later in March, with a focus on the new feature of Free Loadout Runs.
Free Loadout Runs in The Cycle: Frontier Season 3
One of the new changes coming in Season 3 of The Cycle: Frontier will be that of Free Loadout Runs. Rather than having players risk their hard-earned currency on potentially inefficient attachments, or for them to struggle with resupplying, this new feature allows players to drop down to the surface with a full pre-defined loadout graciously granted by one of the three factions.
Players are not restricted in any way once on the surface and can do whatever they want. If an evac is done successfully, the player will get to keep all that gear and whatever they have found on the deadly trek.
The addition of Free Loadout Runs is a perfect way to rebound from crushing losses or just to try out new things. In addition, it allows players to experience a full playing session without risking any of their own gear. With the randomized nature of the Free Loadouts, there will always be something interesting to check out.
How Free Loadout Runs Work
It is actually a simple process; all players have to do is go to the drop terminal, choose a map, select whatever free loadout is available at the moment and drop to the surface, with no further strings attached. The full details are as follows:
- Every free loadout will include at least 1 weapon with a bunch of ammo, 1 shield, 1 helmet, 1 backpack and a few health consumables.
- Loadouts may include additional items, like attachments or other types of consumables.
- Gear rarity will vary from Common (gray) to Rare (blue). Specifics will vary, but every loadout will amount to roughly the same total value.
- Free Loadout Runs will be available several times per day, with a cooldown timer between each run.
- Loadouts offered will stay the same until players drop with them. There will be a reroll once every 24 hours.
- Players cannot bring any of their own gear if they’re picking a free loadout.
One thing YAGER really wanted to introduce is a way for players to enjoy a quick gaming session here and there without fearing for their progression every time. Free Loadout Runs allow for a more carefree experience, especially with Season 3 being new territory for The Cycle: Frontier.
The team also wanted to offer newer and more casual players an easier way to get into the game, understand its mechanics, and explore the surface without being constantly punished for being green. It will also limit the chances of going bankrupt early on and having to rely on knife runs to recoup.
All in all, Free Loadout Runs will make the experience smoother and allow Prospectors to quickly drop again in just a few clicks, without fear or worry.
Matchmaking Updates
Aside from the Free Loadout Runs, Season 3 of The Cycle: Frontier will bring additional improvements to the matchmaking system. Players should experience a good mix of tension and excitement, but also make sure progression remains somewhat fair and linear.
Significant improvements have been made to the system throughout the seasons to make the experience smoother and fairer, such as preventing new solo players from running into squads of three juggernauts, ensuring unexperienced Prospectors do not get to face pro PvP players, and trying to fill every server with players of a similar skill level.
This was done through data analysis, feedback collection, internal testing and, sometimes, pure experimentation. YAGER believes matchmaking criteria are currently in a much better place than they ever were, but there’s still more to come.
