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Black Desert Mobile update reveals the new Dimensional Crystal class

Acclaimed MMO Black Desert Mobile is ramping up its content to see out 2020 on a high note. After the trashfire of a year we’ve had, games are the perfect form of escapism, and updates just keep us away from the real world for as long as possible.

Black Desert Mobile is introducing a brand new crystal class for players. The Dimensional Crystal – aside from just sounding more epic than a journey to Mordor – grants new buffs to your attack points, defense points, and Black Spirit stat points. For those of you currently using the Abyssal-grade crystal, the effects of the Dimensional Crystal vastly exceed the highest potential of your current class.

Publisher Pearl Abyss also announced the return of the Field of Valor, which sees players form uneasy alliances with each other to fight hordes of enemies. The mode is here for two weeks (until December 8), so find four other players and take down as many monsters as you can in the 30-minute survival mode. A word of warning, however: you’ll need to spend Tokens of Valor in order to enter. So slay some monsters in the Black Desert world to gain access to the Field of Valor.

The full patch notes and information for the Dimensional Crystal can be found below:

[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7hW6B_TvvdU?modestbranding=1&rel=0&feature=oembed]
  • Added Dimensional Crystal
    • Dimensional Crystals can contain power for the Aal, Labreve, Serrett, and Ahib branches
    • Dimensional Crystal extraction is only possible for gear lower than Primal grade, and cannot be done otherwise
  • Added a separate category on the craft menu for crafting Dimensional Crystals
    • You can craft Dimensional Crystals in the Alchemy Lab or Craft menu, under the Crystal category
  • Added new items that are required to craft Dimensional Crystals
    • Obtain Dimensional Fragments from feeding Abyssal-grade items to the Black Spirit and from Field of Valor
  • Dimensional Fragments cannot be obtained by feeding the Delphad Main Weapon and Sub-Weapon event rewards to the Black Spirit
    • Use Dark Coins to purchase Empty Crystals from Gervaise’s Shop

There is also – as with everything – a Black Friday sale in the Pearl Shop. Ornaments, outfits, and pets all have discounts, some of which reach 90% off. Pearl Abyss also says there will be special item bundles available, although we don’t know exactly what these include at this point.

Check out our picks for the best Black Friday deals on all things mobile and Switch gaming, or take a look at our roundup of the best mobile MMORPGs for more like Black Desert Mobile.

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Win a free copy of dungeon-crawling shop-management game, Moonlighter!

We love a good dungeon-crawler, hacking and slashing our way through room after room packed with horrifying monsters. But it’s nice to have a break, too, and sit back with something a little more homely. We’re talking games like Animal Crossing or Stardew Valley that have a warm, comforting simplicity. Well, what if we told you there’s a game that has the best of both worlds? And what if we told you we were running a giveaway for that game this week…

Moonlighter is a dungeon-crawler/shop-keeping game where you play as Will, a merchant-turned-hero trying to keep his grandfather’s shop alive. In the game, you delve the dungeon, killing monsters and bosses, and then sell the loot you find in your shop, using the money to revitalise your hometown of Rynoka. It’s a really fantastic formula – read our Moonlighter review for more details!

The game originally launched on PC to much critical acclaim, and is coming to iOS on November 19. Lucky for you, we’ve got some copies for this week’s giveaway, so sign up down below if this sounds like you.

In order to enter, simply fill out the box below, though please have a look at our terms and conditions first.

ios

Moonlighter iOS giveaway

If you can’t wait to play Moonlighter for yourself, you can purchase the game on the App Store from tomorrow. We’ll send the codes out to the lucky winners next Thursday, so keep an eye on your inbox!

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New update to Black Desert Mobile introduces the Grand Desert region

If you’re hankering for some more stuff to do in Black Desert Mobile, then it’s time to steel your blade, ready your bow, charge your magic, or feed your panthers. The next expansion to Black Desert Mobile is adding a new region called the Grand Desert.

Grand Desert is filled to the brim with mysterious temples and tons of treasure to discover. It’s also said that a Black Spirit lives there, but we’re not sure if Pearl Abyss means the stony goliath that’s featured quite heavily in the trailer. Still, at least the oasis towns look pretty!

Black Desert Mobile’s first anniversary event is also coming very soon. In an upcoming update, you’ll be able to participate in a special in-game event titled ‘Black Spirit Complete Guide’. This event will give players “special quests to level up quickly and unlock endgame content” according to the press release. If you’d rather do it yourself and not have everything spoon fed to you, you can check out our Black Desert Mobile guide to get started.

While these two features are the biggest, there are a few more things coming to Black Desert Mobile in the near future:

  • Crystal of Dimensions: A new attack and defence boost item. You can craft this at the alchemy workshop and is said to provide “players with a new form of character progression”.
  • Carriage Upgrade: Carriages now allow players to carry more goods.
  • Merchantry upgrade: A new SS rank for Merchantry will also be available. This makes it so that you get more resources in a single run.
  • Returning User-care System: A quest line has been created for returning players, which aims to get players who have lapsed up to the same levels as those who have played continuously, allowing them to access the new stuff sooner. These quests are apparently tied to silver rewards.
[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wN-bfYMkjxM?modestbranding=1&rel=0&feature=oembed]

While there is no date for when the Grand Desert expansion update will drop, but the first anniversary update will begin appearing on December 8.

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Genshin Impact update adds more story missions and a melee-ranged hybrid character

Genshin Impact developer miHoYo today announced the first major update for the mobile and console RPG. The update, which hits phones (or console) on November 11, introduces a bunch of new features, characters, and events. We scored the game 7/10 in our Genshin Impact review, and forthcoming updates only look to bring more of the great exploration that we enjoyed so much.

First of all, we’ll get the finale to the Liyue chapter of the game through a bunch of brand-new quests and story beats. You can expect to explore the other five cities in Teyvat in future updates, too, so you won’t be short of new content for a good while.

As well as finishing the section of story set in Liyue Harbor, update v1.1 also adds Genshin Impact’s first seasonal event, which we can expect to see more of in the future. November’s seasonal offering is  called Unreconciled Stars, and sees players come together to stop a terrible catastrophe from destroying Teyvat as we  know it. The event goes on for two weeks, during which time you can  complete new quests, take on co-op challenges, and unlock  rewards – including 4-star character Fischl.

But that’s not all, as the update also introduces four new playable characters. The 5-star characters are Childe and Zhongli, who possess unique abilities and skills. ‘Childe’ is a hydro archer and can switch between two combat modes, melee and ranged. Zhongli is a  Geo polearm user with great defensive capabilities – oh and he can also petrify his foes.

We’ve got less information at this stage about the two new 4-star characters, Xinyan and Diona, but rest assured that they’ll be ready to diversify your party and unlock nifty combos as you adventure through Teyvat. We’ll have to wait and see where these four characters fit in our Genshin Impact tier list, but we’re excited to find out.

[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t7xFSSu0-V8?modestbranding=1&rel=0&feature=oembed]

The last major addition in the update is a new ‘Reputation’ system. This allows you to build up your standing in the regions of Teyvat, and the higher your prestige among the citizens of a certain area, the more rewards you get. There are region-exclusive items, customisations, and new tools to  aid you on your adventure. You can also get your hands on a portable waypoint, stove, and treasure compass via the reputation system, so keep your rapport with each region’s citizens in top form.

We’ve also got a great Genshin Impact guide if you’re just getting started – or if you need to look up something about the map, multiplayer or primogems. If you’re after a freebie, check out our list of Genshin Impact codes to make sure you don’t miss out.

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Win a copy of Action-RPG Torchlight III on Nintendo Switch!

We love Switch games, which is why we were so excited to start writing about them on the site last month. But this week marks something even more exciting: our first Switch giveaway! We’ve partnered with the lovely folks at Perfect World to give away some Switch copies of the recent installment in the popular RPG series, Torchlight 3.

One hundred years after the events of Torchlight 2, Novastraia is once again threatened by invasion, this time from the Netherim and its allies. You must choose your own hero, and become the land’s defender, fighting off fearsome foes, adventuring, and just generally exploring the wilderness with your friends, or by your lonesome. Torchlight 3 also features collectible animal companions, and even lets you build and upgrade your very own fort.

So if you’re hankering for a fun, fleshed-out RPG experience, Torchlight 3 might just be for you. So what do you need to do to get a copy? Well, just enter below and you’ll be in with a chance of winning when our giveaway ends on Thursday, October 5.

In order to enter, simply follow the instructions in the box below. Though, please do take a glance at our terms and conditions first!

Torchlight III Switch giveaway

If you can’t wait to play Torchlight 3, you can find the game on the Switch store and Steam. For more similar recommendations, see our list of the best Switch RPGs!

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Tactical shojo RPG, Illusion Connect, launches globally on iOS and Android

Superprism Games celebrates the global launch of its tactical shojo RPG, Illusion Connect, as it debuts on iOS and Android. Over 600,000 users pre-registered to play Illusion Connect, an impressive feat for any mobile game. Those of you that sign in over its launch period can expect to receive a number of free-to-claim rewards, including skins, resources, and even characters.

In a battle to save humanity, you must team up with Saya to fight the mysterious enemies who have invaded the space between the real world and the dream world. These enemies, also known as Nightmares, are incredibly powerful and will require you to bolster your squad. Fortunately, there are plenty of Lenses available to team up with to make fights easier.

To uncover the hidden conspiracy, you’ll need to defeat all the Nightmares who stand in your way. Your path should be different from most players thanks to the faction system, giving each team their own unique purposes and faiths. Illusion Connect isn’t all about fighting, however, as you can learn all about your partners with the social features built into the game.

[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=inSsuW067LU?modestbranding=1&rel=0&feature=oembed]

Here’s a list of everything you can gain during Illusion Connect’s launch window:

  • Login for eight days in total to gain massive Diamonds, Nina’s skin ‘Redhood’, and SSR partner Miyuki
  • Anna’s Gift: clear stages to gain massive resources including diamonds, coins, partner EXP, and SSR gears
  • SEED’s Recruitment: collect a certain number of SR and SSR partners to gain Summon Ticket x30 and a bikini skin for Kasumi
  • Dreamweaver (third day after character creation): collect stage stars to gain massive Diamonds
  • Newbie Bonus Gacha: ‘Summon x10’ guarantees an SSR partner (Frantiva, Hotaru or Nicola)
  • The Journey of Growth: complete all seven-day objectives to upgrade Saya from R to SSR, and gain Saya’s skin ‘Nightingale’

You can download Illusion Connect from the App Store and Google Play right now. Interested in other gacha games like this? Check out our list of the best gacha games available on mobile devices.

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You literally can’t miss out on the legendaries in the Pokémon Sword and Shield expansion

Pokémon Sword and Shield’s second expansion, The Crown Tundra, introduces every legendary Pokémon that’s ever appeared in a mainline Pokemon title to the Switch game. Unlike in previous Pokémon games, where each legendary encounter can result in the Pokémon running away, Nintendo has confirmed that encounters with legendary Pokémon have a guaranteed 100% capture rate.

This information was confirmed in the most recent episode of the Japanese variety show, Pokénchi. Pokénchi also confirmed that players will only capture one of each legendary Pokémon. Some members of the community are disappointed by this news as they fear these legendary Pokémon will be shiny locked. This means these Pokémon cannot be shiny unless the developers decide to give them away at future events. Be sure to keep an eye out on any events after the expansion launches.

Depending on which copy of Pokémon Sword or Shield you own will determine which legendary Pokémon appear in your game. Unfortunately, this means if you want every Pokémon in your PokéDex, you may need to own both copies of the game.

There is the possibility that Game Freak will allow players to catch the version-exclusive legendaries through raids, though this hasn’t been confirmed as of yet. By guaranteeing players can capture the legendary Pokémon without fail, this opens up the possibility of using any Pokéball you want. Be sure to choose wisely, as you won’t have the option ever again.

[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AMbuCjjs3gw?modestbranding=1&rel=0&feature=oembed]

Want more RPG goodness on your Nintendo Switch? Say no more. Our best Switch RPGs guide will leave you with hundreds of hours worth of content to explore.

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Claim free in-game rewards in Summoners Glory: Eternal Fire this weekend

Summoners Glory: Eternal Fire, BHG team’s first ever game, launches this Sunday on October 18. Blending together the turn-based, hero collector, PVP, and MMORPG genres, Summoners Glory: Eternal Fire aims to immerse players in the world of Kairasia as they battle against Morganter, the Demon Lord.

Morganter’s reign of terror on the people of Ertos looked like it would be the end of civilisation as they knew it, but the Goddess of the Initial Fire stepped up just in time. Shining her light of hope on humanity, the heroes of Ertos felt the power of the Initial Fire. With the leadership of the Gods, the heroes of Ertos face Morganter for the final time. As a Phantom Master, it’s up to you to bring peace to Ertos once and for all.

In this dungeon crawler, you assemble a squad capable of toppling Morganter. There are hundreds of unique heroes scattered around the world called Phantoms. Defeating these powerful Phantoms may lead them to pledge their allegiance to you, so it’s worth battling these strong opponents once you have prepared for battle.

If you start playing Summoners Glory: Eternal Fire, be sure to enter code PocketTactics at the character creation screen to get some powerful in-game rewards. The items include experience buffs, summoning books, an SS Rank Phantom, and even gold. Don’t worry, this code doesn’t expire so feel free to use it at any point.

[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=meNAwL9FfSc?modestbranding=1&rel=0&feature=oembed]

Summoners Glory: Eternal Fire will be arriving on Android and iOS devices at the end of the week. Players can pre-register their interest to play on the Google Play Store and App Store right now.

Want to play a different MMORPG while you wait for Summers Glory: Eternal Fire to launch? Check out our best mobile MMORPGs guide which highlights some of the best games available on Android and iOS.

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Markiplier ditches YouTube to become a fantasy barkeeper

YouTube superstar Markiplier is set to enter the world of AFK Arena alongside his lovely dog, Chica. He’s taken up residence as the new barkeeper in the Noble Tavern, a sort of home away from home where you can summon heroes and have a break between adventures.

His likeness has been recreated in AFK Arena’s vibrant style, meaning he doesn’t look out of place among the other NPCs. He’s also lent his voice to the role, so you can expect to hear both words of wisdom and encouragement from the man himself. Plus, whenever you visit the Noble Tavern, he’ll be right there waiting to help you summon powerful allies to your team.

This is only the latest in a series of AFK Arena collaborations with major stars. Earlier this week, we covered the game’s ‘Cheat on your RPG’ ad campaign featuring Elijah Wood. The first of those TV spots sets up Wood’s secret love for AFK Arena and his rocky relationship with orc Uzgahk the Horrid. Yes, it’s all a bit wild.

Here you can see Markiplier and Chica in AFK Arena:

New characters arrive regularly in AFK Arena, but the Markiplier collab is something a little different. Recently, new recruitable heroes Zaphreal and Lucretia joined the fray, and there was even an AFK Arena Assassin’s Creed crossover not too long ago.

If you’re willing to risk losing dozens of hours of your time, you can grab AFK Arena now from over on the App Store or Google Play. Oh, and be sure to use code “BestRPG4BusyU” to net yourself 500K Gold and 500 Diamonds. We also keep an AFK Arena tier list and a regularly updated list of AFK Arena codes.

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Badlanders is essentially Escape from Tarkov mobile, now open for pre-registration

October, 1: Badlanders has now opened for pre-registration globally.

Badlanders is a new survival game from mobile behemoth NetEase that recently entered closed beta in select regions. You’re dropped into a warzone and challenged to scavenge for supplies in order to repel enemy forces, with your ultimate goal being to acquire items with the highest value, then make your daring escape.

Dotted around the map are some all-important escape points for you to reach. If you manage to hold one down successfully, you’ll leave the battlefield with your gear intact. Niko Partners Senior Analyst Daniel Ahmad likened the game to Escape from Tarkov, a gritty first-person shooter that shot to popularity earlier this year. As Ahmad said in a recent Twitter thread, NetEase is especially skilled at bringing popular PC or console genres to mobile.

There are three distinct trading systems to make use of in Badlanders. Exchange, as the name suggests, allows you to purchase and sell some basic supplies. Prism gives you the chance to acquire more premium loot with enhanced attributes, and Auction lets you set your own prices and trade freely with other players.

Here’s a recent trailer:

[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7CcIp7kxPaQ?modestbranding=1&rel=0&feature=oembed]

It’s all about supply and demand, so you have to be smart about your pricing strategies if you want to make some decent cash. And you’ll need every penny you can get in order to insure your favourite items. Doing so will allow you to regain, for example, your preferred gun after a certain amount of time. That is unless someone steals it from your corpse.

The persistent loot system is largely what will set Badlanders apart from similar games on mobile, and it already sounds like an interesting spin on several established genres. For now, only Android players in the CBT regions can give it a go, but the game has in fact opened for pre-registration globally with a few exceptions. If you’re in Belgium, Taiwan, Vietnam, Mainland China, or any of the CBT areas, you won’t currently be able to pre-register.

Here are some handy links to Badlanders’ App Store and Google Play pages. The former lists its expected release date as October 24th. And, while you’re here, why not check out our list of the best mobile multiplayer games?