A deadly defender joins Hood's outlaws for the first season: Samhain
Eidaa is an agile and lethal mercenary who arrives in Sherwood for the start of the first season in Hood: outlaws and legends. His design-to-game journey began way back in 2019 when we started defining the characters and playstyles we wanted to support in our medieval multiplayer heist game. When we started the process of modifying the classes we absolutely needed for the launch, the ranger, hunter, brawler and mystic offered the most varied gameplay, but the concept of developing a character specialized in defense and control of the area was at the top of our list when the opportunity arose. At the time the free view we had in mind was for a trapper or an engineer course, and our primary focus was to support some sort of fencing as it seemed like a great fit for the game's fantasy, but it was something we avoided at launch. in our efforts to offer a less familiar representation of medieval weapons.
Studying the flows
With live play we were able to observe how players were using the different classes and better understand what was missing. We paid particular attention to how the teams defended each other during the treasure extraction and also how they attempted to intercept the rival team at the choke points leading to the extraction zone. The explosives thrown by John (Brawler) are effective for controlling an area, but they require precise timing and usually hit a single player rather than a gang running like a pack. To offer more meaningful area control we explored various booby traps (mines, tribbles, spike pits), but ultimately reporting that trap style was a major concern. If a danger is hidden and cannot be identified and disarmed, it may seem unfair to take damage from it. This type of mechanic also has the potential to dramatically slow down the pace of play, which we were cautious about as the game mechanics during the draw phase are balanced in favor of the action and excitement.
The gear is Lava
The solution we chose for Eidaa's deployable equipment was a tar grenade. Eidaa distributes it in the same way that any other gear grenade is prepared and used, and the visual feedback of the lava-like glowing molten liquid is evident to both allies and enemies. The area of effect and duration are generous enough to provide excellent area control. As with all other gear items, it can be upgraded with a variety of different perks to improve its effectiveness.
We've also made a change to the way the Eidaa trait works. The other outlaws have passive traits (frontal assassinations, lifting of slide gates, prolonged tagging, faster stamina regeneration), but Eidaa has an active trait, as input is required. The stretch is called Refueling and it does just that. When visiting an empty exchange, Eidaa can press an input to immediately replenish her supplies, providing vital items for her allies or even herself.
Hail Mary shield
One of the most skillful and satisfying moments in which to pull off hood is the long-range headshot "Ave Maria" on an enemy player while he is grabbing the treasure. There has never been an obvious or effective contrast to this until now (other than shooting the sniper with your ranger), but Eidaa's ultimate ability, the Bulwark, offers the opportunity to rescue your teammates. as they approach victory. Once loaded, Eidaa can deploy a large energy shield that acts as a temporary barrier to incoming missiles and explosives. It won't last long and can be destroyed after taking damage, but when timed correctly it makes Eidaa the perfect defender in one of the most critical phases of the game. It is still possible for allied players to shoot through the shield while defending the target, and while the ability is active, Eidaa also benefits from increased movement speed to further enhance her defensive capabilities. This is an essential buff, as you will need to get close and close to make the most of Eidaa's unique fighting style ...
The hybrid warrior
In another break from existing classes, Eidaa is best described as a hybrid melee fighter. Both of our current melee characters (John and Tooke) use a block and parry to defend against incoming attacks, and both of our ranged characters (Robin and Marianne) use an evasion to escape danger. Eidaa uses both a breakout and a parry to escape and counterattack. This is a huge difference to the fighting style and may take some time to adapt to experienced players, but it's designed this way to support its offensive attacks - a quick barrage of sword strikes and slashes.
While Eidaa may not have the high damage power of John's hammer or Tooke's flail, she is agile enough to leave her opponents stunned and torn apart in a one-on-one fight. Its curved blade can slide gracefully between hits from its light attack or unleash a spin attack using its heavy. It can also make use of a rushing airstrike to deal heavy damage. Just remember to keep an eye on the stamina gauge as she is a much more graceful fighter than current tank-like fighters.
Strength in numbers
With speed on its side and an arsenal of exciting new skills, Eidaa is an exciting addition in terms of team synergy. But he is far from a lone wolf, working best in combination with other Outlaws who have the skills to complement his style of play and create opportunities to capitalize on his defensive skills. In the Coup d'état (PvE) and Outlaw Strike (PvPvE) game modes a variety of classes will always have the upper hand and running in groups is still the best tactic for success.
Form follows fun
As with all outlaws, Eidaa had a busy life before landing on the shores of medieval England and joining the gang at their forest hideout. Eidaa's backstory will be revealed in the collectible tapestries unlocked by completing Heists. We researched and created backstory and gameplay mechanics for many of the classic characters from the Robin Hood legends, but with Eidaa we wanted to create our own addition to those tales and not be limited by legacy. Our vision of the agile swordsman with the tactical elements of an engineer is absolutely crafted in Eidaa and we can't wait to see how the community adopts its truly unique skill set.
Hood: outlaws and legends is now available for Xbox One and Xbox Series X | S. Get there Year 1 Edition, including the base game and the Year 1 Battle Pass Pack, to access three premium Battle Passes, which will be released after the initial free season, for one year of exclusive cosmetics!
Hood: outlaws and legends
Focus Home Interactive
$ 29,99
We are all Outlaws… but some of us will become Legends.
Faced with a ruthless and uncontrolled state, rebels and thieves fight to claim their place among legends. To gain influence over an oppressed people, rival gangs compete in daring robberies to target the rich where it hurts the most. Popular hero or gold-hungry outlaw, only the best will run away with sweaty riches.
Two teams of 4 players compete for the perfect shot, in medieval environments patrolled by deadly AI guards. With each character's unique abilities and mystical abilities, sneak around to steal invisible treasures or dominate through loud and brutal combat.
Blood will be shed. The riches will be stolen. Legends will be reborn.
• Defeat opponents in intense multiplayer PvPvE heists
• Experience a violent medieval world where mysticism competes with man-made power and corruption
• Claim your loot and invest in perks, weapons and bold new looks
• Post-launch support with new maps, characters, game modes and events
Hood: Outlaws and Legends - Year 1 Edition
Focus Home Interactive
$49,99
The Year 1 Edition includes the full game Hood: Outlaws & Legends and the Year 1 Battle Pass Pack.
The Year 1 Battle Pass Pack includes 3 Battle Passes to unlock during Year 1, spanning 3 seasons:
Battle Pass In Progress:
• Season 1: Samhain - Battle Pass
Next Battle Pass:
• Season 2: Yule - Battle Pass
• Season 3: Ostara - Battle Pass
Each Battle Pass contains exclusive unlockables, including outfits, weapon skins and banners.
Advance through levels to unlock cosmetics by playing and earning experience points. The cosmetics are exclusive to a Battle Pass and can only be unlocked during the respective season. As Season 2 arrives, Season 1 progress will be blocked.
Some Battle Pass items are free, meaning any player can progress through the Battle Pass. You will need to purchase the Battle Pass to unlock paid items.
We are all Outlaws… but some of us will become Legends.
