E3 2018: 5 Things We Learned About The Division 2 - Release Date, Setting, Free DLC

Ubisoft had a packed presentation at E3 2018, delivering to hotly anticipated news about Beyond Good & Evil 2 and the reveal of Assassin's Creed Odyssey. But there was still plenty of time to dig into the nitty gritty of The Division 2. In March, Ubisoft confirmed a sequel was indeed coming, but beyond that, details were scant. During Ubisoft's press conference (and Microsoft's before it, where the game was also featured), we discovered when The Division 2 will be released, what's changing, and how endgame content is improving.

Setting

The Division 2 takes place in Washington, DC seven months after the release of the virus that spread through New York City in the first Division. Despite the containment of the original virus, its effects have bled into the nation's capital, where the city is "on the brink of collapse." The Division is dispatched once again to aid survivors and the effort to rebuild after the devastation. Ubisoft said they are using a one-to-one recreation of Washington, DC.

• The Division 2 Revealed, Takes Place In Washington, DC

Raids Are Coming

Ubisoft revealed that players will finally be able to take part in eight-player raids in The Division 2. Ubisoft said in a blog post that raids will offer a true challenge, adding, "These challenging missions will test the skill, communication, and teamwork of even the most expert Agents." Raids will unlock once you hit the level 30 cap.

• The Division 2 End-Game Includes Raids And New Specializations

A Pre-Launch Beta Is Happening Before Release Day

Ubisoft announced that there will be a beta before The Division 2 arrives. The publisher hasn't clarified when it will take place but registration is now open. Players can sign up for a chance to participate on the official Division website, although registering doesn't guarantee entry. Additional details about the beta are expected to arrive at a later date. It was revealed that the game will release for PS4, Xbox One, and PC on March 15, 2019.

• The Division 2 Beta Announced For PS4, Xbox One, And PC
• The Division 2 Release Date Set

Endgame Specializations

One of the criticisms of the original Division was lackluster endgame content. It appears Ubisoft is trying to address that this time around, and one method of doing so is the introduction of specialisations. Once hitting level 30, players will be able to choose a specialisation which comes with its own progression path that consists of new skill mods, talents, and tools, as well as new signature weapons. Some of the specialisations that have been announced so far include the sharpshooter, demolitionist, and survivalist. Ubisoft also alluded to endgame extras such as new PvP content including a fully revamped Dark Zone experience, but it is yet to share any more on the topic at this stage.

• The Division 2 Endgame Includes Raids And New Specializations

Free DLC

In a move sure to spark the interest of players, Ubisoft revealed that all three of the major DLC packs launching for The Division 2 within its first year will be free. The publisher didn't specify whether all DLC for the game would be free, so there is the possibility of paid DLC later on, or perhaps purchasable cosmetics in addition to the free DLC instalments. The DLC episodes will include "story-driven missions, map expansions, and new modes." In the first Division game, DLC packs had to be purchased separately or as part of a season pass.

• The Division 2 DLC Will Be Completely Free