PlanetSide 2 becomes the latest game to introduce changes intended to make things more welcoming to newer players. Everything from the character creation, tutorial, to starting combat have been adjusted and in some cases, completely overhauled.
Character creation is usually the first place most of us spend a chunk of time when starting out, and Daybreak has completely changed the process here. The UI is redone, audio, the introductions to factions, selection screens, and graphics all got some polish and tweaks. Each class also gets an info sheet that describes the class, key functions, specialties, and abilities.
The tutorial is still for learning the basics of combat and controls, but the new system incorporates some lessons on behaviors and situations that a player will find themselves going through often, and provide early guidance. Some of these include capturing bases, defense, learning how to check the map, identify fights, and adapt by switching classes as needed. The walkthrough is completely new and uses NPC squads to help create a foundation of experiences to bring into real play.
After completing the tutorial, there are also now faction embassies in the Sanctuary neutral zones where you can grab your starter gear and head to the planet, where new Field Commander NPCs will send you out into fresh starter battle experiences. These all together serve as a more guided onboarding meant to familiarize players with what they need to be good to go fast, but fully prepared.
Other changes include adjustments to starter gear (anti-air is noted as specifically lacking), as well as early vehicles. Quality of life and accessibility changes include the addition of Colorblind mode, being able to see who is speaking in voice chat while on the map screen, and reminders for your next Nanite drop, and to let you know your loadout changes won't be applied until your next resupply or vehicle change. Even lighting has been adjusted to make things easier to see in the night sky.
It's usually easier to draw players to the newest next thing, but when a game has been running for a while, sometimes it can be intimidating to get started. Daybreak is emphasizing new player experiences here, and working to make their start more fun and more intuitive. For more and the full rundown on all of the changes, including mission, vehicle, and weapon tweaks, check out the full change notes over on the PlanetSide 2 site.
