Alpha 0.5.0 has arrived and this major update is bringing many big
changes to EndWar Online. New additions to the Fortress PvP mode,
improvements to Skirmish mode, the return of HQ and a new design
makeover are all included in this massive new update. Read on for
all the details. 
The Future of PvP
Fortress PvP mode was just rolled out in Alpha 0.4.0, but there are
already many new features in Alpha 0.5.0, including leaderboards.
And it's not just a single leaderboard; players will be divided
into different divisions based on their ranking and given
corresponding rewards each day. We also plan on introducing
Fortress-only currency, which can be used to purchase other items,
equipment and materials. 
But victory in Fortress
mode doesn't come easy, especially when you're competing with
everyone else on the server. Although that's part of the challenge,
it's one thing to lose and surrender your hard-earned ranking, but
it's another to not know why you lost. Was the opponent stronger?
Did they have a better strategy? What units did they use? How can I
prevent them from winning next time? We also have an improved
battle history screen to answer those questions. 
Skirmish mode has been
improved as well. Most importantly, we addressed matchmaking issues
in a few different ways, including the use of a new algorithm based
on player ranking instead of commander power. We expect the
beginning to be rather chaotic (since rankings have not been
established), but down the road, this new system will ensure that
players end up fighting opponents with a similar rank and skill.
And of course, we wouldn't call it an update if we didn't have some
new features planned, such as daily objectives and a Skirmish
mode-only store. 
The HQ is Back...
... And it's more convenient than ever. The city is in ruins at the
beginning of the game, but players will slowly rebuild and
eventually create a fully functional HQ from the rubble. HQ
upgrades are back as well and available at every level. This gives
players greater satisfaction from each level gained, knowing they
can become a bit stronger, in addition to giving them the option of
specialization. Because resources are limited (time especially),
it's about choosing where you want to become stronger. 
It's All About Presentation
Almost every aspect of the game has seen an art improvement, from
adding labels to the HQ to a new consolidated world map, to the
design of each individual user interface. But it's not just about
looking good - our goal is to improve player immersion. 
Finally, watch SITREP #18
to see what EndWar Online's Lead Game Designer, David Maurin, and
Art Director, Liao Jun Hao, have to say about Alpha 0.5.0.
To learn more and join
the Endwar Online Alpha, visit the official EndWar
Online website.
