Fortnite‘s 8.10 patch is now available across PS4, Xbox One, PC, Nintendo Switch, and mobile devices. Headlining this week’s update is the new Baller vehicle, but the patch also makes numerous other changes to the game, including to a handful of outfits.
With the 8.10 update, developer Epic has given a makeover to a few of the game’s older skins. “We’ve seen you being vocal about wanting to see the face behind the masks of some of our helmeted outfits, so we’ve done a pass on previous outfits,” the developer explained in its latest blog post.
Specifically, six skins have been updated with this week’s patch: Scarlet Defender, Elite Agent, Renegade Raider, Waypoint, Overtaker, and Whiteout. Epic says that it’ll be “working on more outfit styles and other broad stroke improvements” to Fortnite’s art in the future.
That isn’t the extent of the cosmetic changes update 8.10 has made; Epic has also implemented custom animations for numerous consumable items, including the Chug Jug and Slurp Juice. The developer says it will work on making visual improvements to the game’s lighting, the day/night cycle, wraps, and more.
Along with the aforementioned Baller, update 8.10 also made some big cross-play changes. Following the patch, PS4 and Xbox One players will now be grouped in the same matchmaking pool by default, while Switch and mobile players will be grouped together. You can read more about this and other changes in the full 8.10 patch notes.
Microsoft has revealed a new Xbox One controller colour, and it’s definitely unique. The Phantom White Special Edition is described as “the optimal blend of luxury and sci-fi, embodying a new slant on technical beauty,” and the description goes on from there.
“This controller reflects a sense of mystery with rich, neutral colors that fade away to reveal the technology inside,” reads another line from one of the best product descriptions I have read in a long time. Here’s what all of those words mean:
The Phantom White Special Edition Xbox One controller
The new pad launches at retailers around the world starting on April 2, priced at $70 USD. This is the second in Microsoft’s Phantom Series following the Phantom Black controller.
There’s something especially satisfying about pulling off a combo that gets you into the SSS ranking in Devil May Cry 5. Featuring a trio of badass devil hunters–returning favorites Dante and Nero, as well as newcomer V–you’ll realize that they each bring a dazzling set of skills that show off a remarkable sense of style and energy in a fight. But there’s a lot more to slaying demons than simply firing your gun or swinging your oversized, engine-powered sword. As an action game that possesses the depth of complex fighting games, you’ll need to learn and understand the subtle mechanics and nuances of its main cast in order to leave an impression on Devil May Cry 5’s enemies.
In this guide, we’re giving you the rundown on one of Devil May Cry 5’s main protagonists–particularly the brash and hot-headed Nero. Whether it’s getting a handle of the timing for his Exceed mechanic, or deciding which Devil Breakers you should use, Nero has plenty of options when it comes to taking down demons. If you’re willing to take the time and learn how each character functions, you’ll be able to get the elusive SSS ranking in no time.
So with that, here’s our breakdown on Nero in DMC5. Be sure to watch the gameplay video above at the 03:30 mark to see what SSS rank combat looks like for Nero. If you want to know more about Dante and newcomer V, head on over to our guides for those characters, as well as our walkthrough on how to find all the Secret Missions. For more info on Devil May Cry 5, read our full review.
Overview
As one of the more accessible characters, the charismatic and scrappy Nero features a move set that carries over a number of returning mechanics from DMC4, which includes his familiar long-range grapple moves. With a skill set that emphasizes timing and charging up attacks, Nero’s playstyle is all about creating opportunities and executing primed up attacks with his Red Queen sword, Blue Rose revolver, and Devil Breakers. Devil Breakers are Nero’s newest weapon, allowing him to bring in a customizable set of special arms into battle. This new mechanic can alter his normal attacks and introduce some exciting moves that can slow down time or give him additional projectile attacks.
Nero is the most agile and acrobatic character in the game, and he possesses excellent evasive skills and prowess at fighting enemies in the air. With his Table Hopper ability, Nero can execute a series of jukes and careful dodges right when an enemy is about to attack, allowing him to move into their blind spot in incredibly slick fashion. Nero also has several attacks that allow him to stay in the air, including his Roulette and Calibur skills. If there’s a good way to describe Nero, he’s essentially the brawler of the trio, focusing on fast, heavy hits while being able to slip out with a dodge when he needs to.
The Devil Breakers
The Devil Breakers are truly a game-changer for Nero when paired with his basic move set. These special arms allow you to pull off some very powerful, if a bit bizarre, actions for Nero, greatly expanding his repertoire of skills. For instance, the default breaker is the Overture, a close-range arm that conjures up a massive lighting fist that can also be turned into a remote bomb. Also, Gerbera’s aerial burst attack–which doubles as a dodge–can be extremely effective when you want to keep yourself and the enemies in the air. Unfortunately, the breakers are very fragile and getting hit while using them will cause it to shatter. So you’ll need to carefully pick which moment is best to use them.
One of the main mechanical restrictions for the Devil Breakers, however, is that you can’t freely switch off between the arms in your magazine. In order to shift over to your next arm, you’ll have to break it yourself (creating a small explosion in the process) or use up the arm’s charged attack. With this in mind, you’ll want to customize your loadout to complement your particular playstyle and approach. Though Gerbera and Overture are always reliable to have, other worthwhile breakers to use are the Punch Line and the Tomboy. Punch Line is an extremely fast rocket arm that can target a single enemy and hit them multiple times, while the Tomboy overcharges Nero’s sword and gun, greatly altering its attack pattern and strength.
Combat Tips
When playing as Nero, the best way to build up to the SSS ranking is to keep moving, evade enemy attacks, and rush in with fast hits on a constant basis. One of Nero’s most technical combat skills to master is his Exceed mechanic. With his engine-powered sword, you’ll be able to tap the left trigger to charge up his attacks for extra damage. Though you can hold and tap the trigger multiple times to build up energy, the more efficient way to get a charge is by tapping the Exceed button as you simultaneously swing your sword. If you can nail the timing, you’ll be able to amplify its attack strength instantly. Mastering the timing can be extremely useful during a fight, as you can chain together multiple charged attacks together during a single combo. Unlocking the MAX-Act skill will allow you to fully charge the Red Queen to its limit with a well-timed tap of the Exceed button.
Nero is also effective at bunching up enemies with his attacks. The Streak combat skill–a rush attack that drives Nero forward with his sword–is a move to push enemies together, but the Exceed-variant of the move will turn it into multiple hits. With a set of enemies bunched up together, you can use one of his Devil Breakers to damage the stunned group. In this instance, Punch Line’s normal attack is a solid move, but the Gerbera’s special–either the ground attack or the aerial variant–are great choices to use when the enemies are bunched up or when you’re fighting in tight spaces.
Nero is extremely proficient in rush-down tactics, but for some extra finesse, he can also use some of his unique taunts–which just so happen to have some advantages in combat. Taunting is normally a good way to build up style ranking, but some of Nero’s taunt actions can even charge energy for his sword and gun. In addition to this, Nero is the only character in the game that has an aerial taunt–which is a surprisingly effective way to dodge attacks and get some extra airtime. By taking advantage of Nero’s multi-functional arms, his aerial tactics, and his great speed and rush-down potential, you’ll be able to work your way up to SSS rank in no time at all.
There’s something especially satisfying about pulling off a combo that gets you into the SSS ranking in Devil May Cry 5. Featuring a trio of badass devil hunters–returning favorites Dante and Nero, as well as newcomer V–you’ll realize that they each bring a dazzling set of skills that show off a remarkable sense of style and energy in a fight. But there’s a lot more to slaying demons than simply firing your gun or swinging your oversized, engine-powered sword. As an action game that possesses the depth of complex fighting games, you’ll need to learn and understand the subtle mechanics and nuances of its main cast in order to leave an impression on Devil May Cry 5’s enemies.
In this guide, we’re giving you the rundown on Devil May Cry 5’s key players. Whether it’s using Dante’s massive arsenal of weapons, deciding on which of Nero’s Devil Breakers to bring into a mission, or how best to utilize V’s demonic familiars–DMC5 presents you with a lot of options, and you’ll often need to decide how best to take advantage of the tools the game presents you.
Though you can get a lot of mileage out of the game’s training mode, known as The Void, you’ll eventually have to dive head-first into combat and put those skills to the test in an actual mission. If you’re willing to take the time and learn how each character functions, you’ll be able to get the elusive SSS ranking in no time. Below you can find links to our guides on each of the main players in DMC5 and how to best use their skills in battle. Though, be sure to watch the gameplay video above to see what SSS rank combat looks like for each character.
As one of the more accessible characters, the charismatic and scrappy Nero features a moveset that carries over a number of returning mechanics from DMC4, which includes his familiar long-range grapple moves. With a skill-set that emphasizes timing and charging up attacks, Nero’s playstyle is all about creating opportunities and executing primed up attacks with his Red Queen sword, Blue Rose revolver, and Devil Breakers. Devil Breakers are Nero’s newest weapon, allowing him to bring in a customizable set of special arms into battle. This new mechanic can alter his normal attacks and introduce some exciting moves that can slow down time or give him additional projectile attacks.
V is essentially DMC5’s glass cannon. Though frail and weak in appearance, this demon hunter possesses impressive powers and relies on his demonic familiars–the shape-shifting panther Shadow, demonic bird Griffon, and giant golem Nightmare–to do damage for him. With V’s demons, you can perform all manner of complex combos and juggles, but you’re generally standing away from combat waiting to inflict a final blow.
As the last character to unlock during the main story, the legendary devil hunter Dante may feel like you’re biting off more than you can chew. While mechanically he’s similar to his version in DMC4, the pacing in DMC5 and the number of tools he has at his disposal is a big shift from the previous game, which can make getting a handle of his combat style feel a bit daunting. Simply put, Dante is the most advanced character in the game. In addition to an expansive arsenal of melee weapons and firearms that each have their own functions and mechanics, the legendary devil hunter also has four unique combat styles that introduce new moves and enhance his combat loadout.
Confirming rumors, Microsoft officially announced Halo: The Master Chief Collection will be coming to PC later this year. Microsoft says the PC edition was “built specifically for the PC audience,” but it remains to be seen what kind of PC-specific features are being implemented.
Microsoft did confirm that Halo: MCC for PC will contain campaign and multiplayer support, so it sounds very similar to the Xbox One edition. However, whether or not there is cross-play support is unknown. Also unclear is if people who already bought the Xbox One edition will get the PC edition at no cost like Xbox Play Anywhere titles.
In a statement, 343 said it was “critical” to ensure that Halo: MCC for PC is a “first class” experience that doesn’t suffer from the same kind of issues that the Xbox One edition did.
“The team is passionately committed to ensuring that all of the features, bells, and whistles expected in a modern PC title are included with MCC,” 343 said.
To that end, Microsoft is adopting a unique release schedule for Halo: MCC on PC. Each title within the game will be released one by one. According to 343, this will allow the studio to ensure that “each one is right, while giving players a chance to jump in right away, rather than having to wait for the entire suite of games to be completed.”
Each title will be sold separately. For Halo: Reach specifically, players will get campaign, multiplayer, and Firefight, though it’s not immediately clear if these are combined into one purchase or each sold separately. Microsoft’s announcement blog post doesn’t confirm if Halo 1 and Halo 2 are releasing on PC as Anniversary editions (featuring better graphics and other improvements) or as their standard editions.
Microsoft said it will share many more details about Halo: MCC in the time ahead, so keep checking back for more. 343 is working on the PC edition alongside outside studios Splash Damage and Ruffian.
Halo: MCC for PC will be available through the Microsoft Store and Steam, though pricing for each title was not announced. Whatever the case, 343 said each game within Halo: MCC for PC will “evolve and grow over time with community input.”
The collection originally launched on Xbox One back in November 2014, and the initial launch did not go so well with the game suffering from serious server issues. Those problems have been fixed, and the game is in much better shape today, and Microsoft continues to update the title on a regular basis as it also works on the brand-new Halo game, Halo Infinite.
Halo: MCC on Xbox One includes Halo: Combat Evolved Anniversary and Halo 2 Anniversary, as well as Halo 3 and Halo 4. Halo 3: ODST was later added to the package as a measure of thanks to the community for sticking with the game amid its issues.
Halo: MCC coming to PC is a big deal. While Halo: Combat Evolved and Halo 2 were released on PC, subsequent titles never were. Microsoft previously acknowledged that fans want to see more Halo games for PC, and this move–along with Halo Infinite being confirmed for PC–seems to be a strong signal that Halo once again has a home outside of Xbox.
Halo: The Master Chief Collection continues to grow. Microsoft announced today during its Inside Xbox broadcast that Halo: Reach will be added to the package in the near future.
Originally released in 2010, Halo: Reach is the final Halo game developed by Bungie after it handed off the franchise to Microsoft and its new developer, 343 Industries. A prequel to Halo: Combat Evolved, Halo: Reach tells a stirring story that ends on a dark note. The game puts you into the space marine boots of Spartan Six, not Master Chief.
Halo: Reach’s multiplayer content, as well as Forge and Theatre, will be added to Halo: MCC on Xbox One at no extra cost. However, the game’s campaign and fan-favourite Firefight multiplayer mode are coming together in a paid package. If you’re an Xbox Game Pass member, however, you’ll get “the entirety of Halo: Reach” without paying extra.
Microsoft also announced that Halo: MCC is coming to PC, with each title in the collection launching one by one. Unlike on Xbox One, Reach will be offered as one package on PC and will be the first MCC game available as part of its rollout on the platform.
After Halo: Reach is added, Halo: The Master Chief Collection will include all but one of the mainline Halo FPS games. Only the Xbox One game Halo 5: Guardians is not in the package. That game, like Halo: The Master Chief Collection, is included with Xbox Game Pass.
Nothing beats the exhilaration of performing an SSS rank combo in Devil May Cry 5. But if you want to experience these emotional highs, your technique needs to be on point. As an action game, DMC5 is filled to the brim with complex mechanics that takes practice to master.
As Dante, you utilize his arsenal of weapons and multiple fighting styles to perform all manner of combos. When playing him, you have to strike a balance at being flexible, while also being relentless in your approach. In this guide, we give you the basics of how to play this tenured demon hunter, as well as offer some tips on how to achieve an SSS rank. For visual reference, watch the video above to see what SSS rank Dante combat looks like in action.
As the last character to unlock during the main story, the legendary devil hunter Dante may feel like you’re biting off more than you can chew. While mechanically he’s similar to his version in DMC4, the pacing in DMC5 and the number of tools he has at his disposal is a big shift from the previous game, which can make getting a handle of his combat style feel a bit daunting. Simply put, Dante is the most advanced character in the game. In addition to an expansive arsenal of melee weapons and firearms that each have their own functions and mechanics, the legendary devil hunter also has four unique combat styles that introduce new moves and enhance his combat loadout.
It’s a bit overwhelming coming to grips with Dante since he doesn’t like to keep things subtle when he swings his sword or fires off his pistols–everything he does carries considerable force and an exceeding amount of flair behind it. However, what really sets Dante apart from Nero and V is the amount of customization you can apply to his arsenal. Though you can equip him with up to four melee weapons and guns at once–that’s eight weapons in total that can be swapped freely during combat–you can whittle it down to something a bit more manageable.
Dante’s signature ability is his Devil Trigger, which greatly amplifies his attack power and combo potential. When activated, Dante will slowly regenerate any lost health and dish out significantly increased damage. Some of his key combat skills change slightly too, which can mean all the difference. For instance, using Dante’s signature Stinger attack allows him to pierce through the enemy–even damage nearby foes in the process. But even when he’s not in Devil Trigger, Dante’s attacks tend to focus on dishing out massive amounts of raw attack power in a short time–making him a particularly fun character to play.
The Styles
Dante truly shines with his four combat styles: the swordmaster, gunslinger, trickster, and royal guard. You’re able to switch between these four different stances and change his flow and mechanics. The Swordmaster style amplifies all of his melee weapons, adding a special move that’s not available in the other styles–such as the Sparda sword’s prop shredder and roundtrip moves. The Gunslinger stance boosts the attack power of each firearm, while also giving them some added buffs and traits. Trickster style gives Dante added mobility, allowing him to air-dodge, teleport, and pull off some fast moves that make him extremely mobile on the ground and in the air.
The final style is known as the Royal Guard, and it’s by far the most challenging to master. Though it doesn’t possess the number of moves and enhancements that the Gunslinger or Swordmaster have, this style allows Dante to parry almost every attack from enemies, and strike back with energy stored up from any successful block. If you’re feeling especially brave, it’s even possible to clear an entire mission with Dante using only the abilities of the Royal Guard. While you’re certainly free to stick with a particular style you like, Dante’s true potential shines when he’s constantly switching between them. It can be especially satisfying pulling of some successful launchers in Swordmaster style, and then immediately following up by teleporting to airborne foes in Trickster, and then finishing them off in the air with the Gunslinger’s rainstorm skill.
Combat Techniques
First off, you’re going to need to get comfortable with Dante’s weapons and styles. Given the number of weapons he has in his arsenal, you may feel inclined to stick with a mostly standard set-up. While you can pull off some spectacular combos with just the basics, Dante’s combat chic is all about variety, and you’re much better off in the long run experimenting with different weapons and styles. One of Dante’s most effective starting weapons is the Balrog gauntlets. Allowing you to switch off between two different modes focusing on kicks and punches, this weapon has a surprisingly deep set of skills. It even includes a useful dodge mechanic known as the Dempsey Roll, allowing Dante to effortlessly dodge enemy strikes with side-steps, and immediately follow up with a critical strike.
Some of Dante’s most effective weapons deal multiple hits within a single strike. The Cavaliere motorcycle, one of the game’s most bizarre weapons, especially excels at this. With the standard combo, you can hold the attack button to have Dante press down each strike, letting the bladed wheels grind into the enemy. These are incredibly effective against armored foes, and breaking their defense can score a large boost to your style ranking.
One of the best ways to attain the elusive SSS rank with Dante is to constantly switch up your weapons and tactics, while also staying on the move. The ability to swap between his loadout and styles is Dante’s greatest asset, and if you stick with one style or weapon for too long, your ranking will suffer. A strategy to use for attacking with Dante is start off with a basic combo with one weapon, and switch over to another once that particular combo chain ends. With the Devil Trigger active as well, Dante can become a serious force on the battlefield.
As part of March 12’s Inside Xbox broadcast, Microsoft announced the next Xbox Game Pass title–and it is a very big one. Microsoft’s open-ended sandbox game, Minecraft, will be added into the Xbox Game Pass library on Xbox One starting on April 4.
The game has 91 million monthly players, making it bigger than Fortnite, and one of Microsoft’s biggest games ever. Launching on Xbox Game Pass means Minecraft will reach even more people, as anyone with an Xbox Game Pass subscription can play at no extra cost. Microsoft also mentioned that Minecraft’s release into the Xbox Game Pass catalog expands the lineup of family-friendly games further.
Microsoft acquired the Minecraft franchise and developer Mojang in 2014 for $2.5 billion. The game is available on Microsoft’s console and mobile platforms, as well as systems from competing companies like PlayStation and Nintendo.
While Microsoft has no plans to make Minecraft 2, the franchise expands in 2019 with a new game called Minecraft Dungeons, which doesn’t have the franchise’s trademark building mechanics. Outside of games, a Minecraft movie is in the works.
Xbox Game Pass is Microsoft’s subscription service for Xbox One. For $10 USD/month, subscribers get access to a growing library of Xbox One games and backwards-compatible Xbox 360 titles. In addition to legacy titles, all of Microsoft’s first-party exclusives are included with Xbox Game Pass, meaning members can get this year’s Gears 5 and Halo Infinite whenever it comes out at no extra cost.
There’s nothing quite like executing a combo that gets you into the SSS ranking in Devil May Cry 5. However, being able to do so requires a little more finesse than mindlessly mashing on buttons or even executing simple combos. As an action game, DMC5 is packed with complex mechanics that take practice and patience to fully master. It presents you with tons of options, and you’ll often need to decide how best to take advantage of the tools the game presents you.
As series newcomer V, you fight foes from a range, commanding his pet demons to execute all sorts of dizzying combos. In this guide, we give you the basics of how to play him, as well as offer some tips on how to achieve an SSS rank. For visual reference, jump to the 11:45 mark in the video above to see what SSS rank V combat looks like in action. Otherwise, you can watch the video below.
V is essentially DMC5’s glass cannon. Though frail and weak in appearance, this demon hunter possesses impressive powers and relies on his demonic familiars–the shape-shifting panther Shadow, demonic bird Griffon, and giant golem Nightmare–to do damage for him.
With V’s demons, you can perform all manner of complex combos and juggles, but you’re generally standing away from combat instead of being on the front lines. However, V must step in and deal the final blow himself, which creates another tactical layer to his playstyle. It’s a constant balancing act when playing as V, as you’re frequently fighting demons from afar, getting in close to finish them off, and then pulling back out to keep a safe distance.
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10 Minutes Of S Rank Devil May Cry 5 V Gameplay
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Unlike his sword-touting allies, V demands patience and restraint. He’s all about positioning and paying attention to the enemies on the field, only dodging when you absolutely must, as to do so temporarily takes one of your pet demons out of play. You generally want to keep at arm’s length from enemies. Your familiars are excellent at keeping the enemy’s attention, but if you approach too close to the action with V, they’ll immediately divert their focus.
The Familiars
V has three pet demons in his arsenal, and they each inflict damage differently. Shadow and Griffon function as V’s melee and ranged attacks respectively. You’re primarily commanding them to attack enemies, while also coordinating strikes. It’s possible to make them autonomous for a brief duration–which also boosts their attack power–but the deadliest combos come from when you stay in control.
The third familiar, Nightmare, acts as a Devil Trigger-like special move and can only be summoned once you have enough energy stored up. When this hulking golem enters the field, it becomes a major force that can dish out massive damage all on its own in a short time. If you purchased the Promotion skill, you can command it yourself, using its powerful melee strikes and long-range laser attack. You generally want to use Nightmare when you’re looking to increase your damage output or if you’re about to die and need to instantly revive any fallen familiars. Once Nightmare enters the fray, you can rest easy and let it do its thing.
Combat Tips
At first, it can be a bit disorienting jumping into V’s playstyle fresh after Nero. As a result, there’s a natural inclination to spam the attack buttons and let the Familiars do their thing. While this can be viable against minor foes, you’ll need to coordinate and set-up attacks against the more challenging demons. Both Shadow and Griffon will automatically try to get near the enemy you’re targeting, so wait on them first before initiating a combo. However, be wary about getting too far from your targeted enemy, as doing so instantly teleports Shadow and Griffon back by your side upon pressing their attack buttons. Though you’ll need to keep V at a distance, don’t trail off too from combat.
Another thing to keep in mind is remembering the difference in perspectives for the demons and V. If you’re having trouble performing directional attacks, it may be because you’re trying to input them in accordance to the positioning of your pet demons and not V himself. Furthermore, reduce movement while you’re attacking so as to avoid performing certain attacks unintentionally.
Once Nightmare makes it on the field, it can be tough to keep track of your smaller familiars, Shadow and Griffon. If you need a breather, spend Devil Trigger to amplify either Shadow or Griffon, which will set them on a temporary AI control. Doing this will let you keep your focus on only one familiar instead of both of them. However, doing this will expend the energy you have left for Nightmare to stay on the field.
When playing as V, the easiest way to build up a SSS ranking is by keeping a steady flow going for both Shadow and Griffon and to immediately go in for the killing blow with the demon summoner when the time is right. V’s three familiar all possess attacks that can strike multiple enemies at once, which means you’ll be tearing through enemies far more quickly compared to Dante and Nero. Nightmare can quickly skyrocket your ranking with its devastating attacks, but if you’re only using Shadow and Griffon, diversify your attacks and use them in tandem to juggle enemies. It may take some time and finagling to get it just right, but before you know, you’ll find that using your familiars to do your dirty work is a pretty solid way to get a stylish flow going. This will also give you a great opportunity to have V crack up open his book and recite some William Blake poetry, granting you a boost in Devil Trigger.
