Hypesquad NA Server Focus Test Starts May 11

Netmarble is moving forward with its upcoming battle royale TPS game HypeSquad, now scheduled for a NA Server Focus Test. This should be good news to interested players in the region. The test is set to feature new content and game improvements, and will run from May 11 to May 29. Those interested can now head over to Steam and download the game.

Here are the new content and improvements that participants can expect from this upcoming server focus test:

• New Mode
  • A new Competitive Mode is available that measures players' skills.
  • Available tiers:
    • Rookie
    • Bronze
    • Silver
    • Gold
    • Platinum
  • Different rewards are provided for each tier so players can continuously try out for higher grades.
• Battle Pass System
  • Pass Points can be obtained through playing a match and completing battle pass missions.
  • Players can get Battle Pass Rewards, including emote and weapons, based on accumulated Pass Points.
• Growth System Changes
  • For players to enjoy the experience of close-ranged combat during the entire 15 minutes of gameplay:
    • The Augmenter, Vending Machine, and Hype Point Systems are removed.
    • A new Level-up System is added.
  • Players can level up by getting experience items, found by defeating other players or the newly added PVE elements, the Patrol Robot and Vainin.
  • All players start the game at level 1 and can reach a maximum of level 12. Each time a player levels up, they can choose 1 Talent among Attack, Defense, and Utility, and form unique strategies.
• Combat System Change
  • The number of weapons that can be equipped is changed to one so that players can focus on one weapon to use instead of continuously choosing other artillery.
• Weapon Skills and Passives Rework
  • Several weapon skills and passives are changed to improve the unique usability and characteristics of each weapon.
  • For example: Various effects are added to the skill sets of Link Cleaver to let players confuse enemies and engage in a more dynamic combat environment.
• Rule Changes
  • Extra time is added after the final round in Survival Mode.
  • Unlike previous rounds, the safe zone won't shrink during the extra time.
  • Instead of holding out in the safe zone or being forced to fight due to the gray field, the extra time allows players to determine the outcome of the battle through combat.
  • Farming-type bots Vainin and Patrol Robot are added.
    • These allow players to carry out alternative strategies by dropping experience items and other combat-assist items.

HypeSquad is a game where you join a three-man squad in a 20-squad battle and try to survive intense close-quarters combat. Different weapons and options let you creatively personalize your combat style to lead your squad to victory.