Apex Legends Season 27 Early Patch Notes Overview
Apex Legends is gearing up for its upcoming Season 27, titled "Amped," which is set to launch on November 4. This season promises to introduce substantial movement enhancements and a complete rework of the Olympus map, alongside various adjustments to certain Legends. The early patch notes highlight key changes that aim to improve gameplay dynamics and provide a more engaging experience for players.
Olympus Map Rework
The reimagined Olympus map features four new Points of Interest (POIs): Somers University, Gravity Engine, Stabilizer, and Dockyard. Each POI has been designed to enhance map flow, facilitate vertical combat, and ensure safer rotations for players. Somers University replaces the Orbital Cannon and serves as a research hub created by Horizon, complete with lifts and advantageous high-ground positions. Gravity Engine, taking the place of Energy Depot, utilizes Branthium for city power, introducing new lifts and zip rails to the landscape.
Stabilizer replaces Docks and offers floating rock paths along with outer ballast zones, while Dockyard expands Hydroponics by providing faster vertical routes and compact cover options. Senior Level Designer Michael Shannon emphasized that the new design aims to reward skillful gameplay and address previously problematic open areas, catering to a variety of playstyles, from aggressive drop zones to safer rotation paths. Furthermore, the lore reveals that this version of Olympus has been restored from the snow-covered planet Pagos, with Horizon leading the recovery efforts after a crash.
Legend Adjustments
Several Legends are receiving significant updates in Season 27. Valkyrie’s VTOL Jets will now recharge three times faster and take off with greater speed. Her Skyward Dive Ultimate will launch sooner, while her Missile Swarm ability will no longer inflict self-damage, now scans enemies, and disables their movement passives. These enhancements aim to restore Valkyrie's aerial combat capabilities and mobility.
Rampart's Amped Cover has evolved, gaining health as it levels up and now includes a roof, providing infinite ammo and faster reloads while firing from behind cover. This transition allows Rampart to shift from a static defense role to a more dynamic area control approach. Horizon will see her Gravity Lift cooldown reduced and lift speed increased, with additional health for her Black Hole Ultimate. New fast fall and gliding options have also been introduced, along with bonus lift charges upon knocking down enemies, enhancing her vertical gameplay.
Movement Enhancements
The new Mantle Boost mechanic allows players to gain a forward burst when climbing ledges, facilitating quicker movement across the map. Additionally, Tridents will now feature dedicated health pools, visible damage indicators, and improved collision handling, making high-speed movement more accessible and visually rewarding according to Respawn Entertainment's Lead BR Designer Eric Canavese.
New Features and Events
A new Double Tap Hop-Up for the Alternator has been introduced, enabling it to fire both barrels simultaneously for lethal close-range bursts, described by Weapons Designer Casey O’Brien as both deadly and enjoyable. The Supersonic Wildcard event, running from November 18 to December 16, will bring further Olympus updates, including new ziplines and upgrades, along with the chance to unlock a Mythic R-99 weapon that fires Valkyrie’s Missile Swarm after accumulating heat from combat.
Battle Pass Details
The Amped Battle Pass will feature a range of rewards, including Legendary skins for Valkyrie and Wattson, a Legendary Spitfire weapon skin, and various crafting materials. Different tiers of the Battle Pass will offer additional bonuses, including instant rewards and exclusive skins, enhancing the overall player experience.
Conclusion
With the launch of Season 27, Apex Legends is set to deliver a comprehensive update that focuses on enhancing movement mechanics, reworking the Olympus map, and adjusting Legend abilities. These changes reflect a commitment to improving gameplay dynamics and addressing player feedback. As the game continues to evolve, players can anticipate a more engaging and strategic experience when the new season goes live.