Vortex Gaming

The Cobalt Protocol mode is set to undergo significant changes with the Mid-Season Update. The focus is shifting away from the unique operational style of the existing Cobalt mode and emphasizing the fun of 4v4 combat. The map structure has been altered, with the previous respawn areas now serving as respawn locations due to turret repositioning. The map has been divided in half, forming a straight path.

The character selection phase has been changed, allowing players to select their desired character instead of relying on random selection. Changes have also been made to the equipment selection phase, allowing players to choose any hero equipment they want if they don't like the starting recommended items. The reroll cost for infusion selection has been improved to be free, allowing players to reliably construct their desired combinations.

Significant changes are also coming to the interior of the laboratory building. The allied and enemy factions are now separated left and right based on the center of the laboratory. The bio-sector has been removed, unifying player movement lines to the amplification device. The allied base is guarded by autonomous defense turrets, and players can quickly rejoin the battle or flank enemies using the deploy loop.

With the integration of terrain, the safe zone is limited, so characters will now respawn in the safe zone instead of the situation room. The resurrection speed has also been increased. Players can freely use the synthesizer until they leave the allied base, but after leaving, they must return to the allied base to use the synthesizer.

After the Mid-Season Update, certain amplification devices will be deactivated depending on the page progression. The number of amplification devices decreases as the game progresses, leading to more intense battles. If the game is not decided by page 3, a sudden death page will proceed on page 4. At the start of the sudden death page, each team's life points are reset to 1.

A new tactical skill, 'Attach and Track,' has been added. This skill deals damage to enemies and secures vision. A new infusion, 'Cartrose,' fires a laser to deal additional damage when individual skills deal damage to enemies. A new infusion, 'Fleeting Nightmare,' reduces defense and deals additional skill damage when damage is dealt to enemies. A new infusion, 'Final Ultimatum,' increases armor penetration when basic attacks deal damage to enemies.

The Cobalt Protocol has become generally lighter and less random. The changes allow players to focus on 4v4 combat while playing as they want. The change to a single capture device, which encourages 4v4 combat, is a positive aspect.