The Division 2 raids, Dark Zone, endgame detailed

Alongside the grand reveal of The Division 2 at the Microsoft Xbox E3 press conference, the first gameplay details have emerged in the press materials and there's some good stuff already to digest.

Not only does it look like the criticisms of the original games endgame experience have been addressed, we're already hearing of additional, free content, the return of the Dark Zone, and raids.

For the first time, raids will be coming to The Division 2. Right now that's all we know about that, but it's just part of the additional content agents will have access to. This will include a full year of additional free story missions, map expansions, and game modes. There's also a year one pass that will be available as an extra purchase, but we're not sure yet what that will contain.

The endgame content is also a focus with Ubisoft promising the game was built with an "endgame-first" mentality, and will " introduce brand new challenges and progression systems, unique twists and surprises" along with the raids.

Also coming after the completion of the main story is a bunch of new specializations with their own unique progression systems, skills, mods, and talents. Three mentioned so far include demolitionist, sharpshooter, and survivalist.

Fans of the Dark Zone will be happy to know that it returns for the sequel and it sounds like at least some of it is business as usual. It's still where you'll find the best loot and spontaneous PvP action, but Ubisoft says the overall experience has been revamped so all players can have a good time, regardless of level.

The world of The Division 2 also looks to have been revamped. Besides being pretty big with its 1:1 scale, it's now dynamic with both civilians and enemies fighting to survive, controlling resources and territory. There's also no snow this time around, The Division 2 takes place in "one of the hottest summers in history."

Different needs will trigger different encounters, with you stuck in the middle. You can also work with the very civilians you're trying to save, and they'll offer you supplies and assistant in building out your base of operations.

The Division 2 is set to launch on March 15, 2019, with beta signups live right now.

Richard Devine
Managing Editor - Tech, Reviews

Richard Devine is a Managing Editor at Windows Central with over a decade of experience. A former Project Manager and long-term tech addict, he joined Mobile Nations in 2011 and has been found on Android Central and iMore as well as Windows Central. Currently, you'll find him steering the site's coverage of all manner of PC hardware and reviews. Find him on Mastodon at mstdn.social/@richdevine