The Finals Season 4 Update
Embark Studios has launched the long-awaited Season 4 update for The Finals, available across major platforms including PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, and PC. This season introduces a wealth of new content that is set to excite players, among the most notable being the innovative sponsor feature. With this addition, players can align with one of three sponsors, each offering distinct rewards, adding a strategic layer to gameplay choices.
In addition to the sponsor feature, Season 4 enhances the gaming experience with the introduction of Fortune Stadium. This urban map is designed with vertical spaces and visually reflects the identity of each sponsor through strategically placed colors. Players can also explore new weaponry with options like the .50 Akimbo, Pike-556, and M26 Matter tailored for different player classes, alongside various balance adjustments and bug fixes to improve overall gameplay.
Season 4 Highlights for The Finals
New Map: Fortune Stadium
Fortune Stadium emerges as a standout addition to Season 4. Sponsored by HOLTOW, ENGIMO, and ISEUL-T, this map presents a sleek, urban environment. Each sector offers unique brand-sponsored experiences and boasts highly vertical spaces. Players are encouraged to explore and take advantage of the multi-faceted terrain to optimize their strategies.
Expanded Arsenal
Weapons Overview
The game's arsenal expands this season with three powerful weapons, each catering to different playstyles.
- .50 Akimbo (HEAVY): Offering colossal firepower, these dual handguns are perfect for players who prioritize precision and strength.
- Pike-556 (MEDIUM): This marksman rifle extends the Medium build's effective range, allowing for more strategic engagements.
- M26 Matter (LIGHT): A quick-to-learn pump-action shotgun, ideal for fast-paced combat scenarios.
Sponsor System
Season 4 introduces a sponsorship feature, where contestants can align with HOLTOW, ENGIMO, or ISEUL-T. Sign up once per season and complete Contracts to earn Fans and rewards. The more Fans a player accrues, the more benefits their chosen sponsor provides.
Rewards and Fan Engagement
- Fans: Earn Fans by performing well in matches, enhancing the depth of player-sponsor interactions.
- Contracts: Complete specific tasks to gain contractual rewards, boosting engagement and motivation.
Enhanced Player Customization
Alternate Sights & Scopes
Players can now customize weaponry with alternative sights like Red Dots and Scopes. These features are unlockable using VRs through the weapon customization screen.
Facial Hair Customization
The addition of facial hair options allows players to tweak competitors’ appearances for a personalized look.
Player Cards
Enhancements to Player Cards add new collectible badges, borders, and titles. Improved lighting on characters further highlights player style.
Competitive Changes
World Tour Ranks
The introduction of Platinum and Diamond ranks precedes a redefined path to the Emerald rank. Players can achieve Emerald without requiring tournament wins, now unlocked from the season's start.
Ranked Tournaments
Ranked Tournaments make a strong comeback with an 8-team, 24-player format. The seeding process reflects team strength, with changes in Ranked Score reliant on tournament performance.
Cashout Rule Variants
Ranked Mode:
- Active 10% penalties for team wipes
- Disabled gameshow events to minimize randomness
- Loadout adjustments happen only between rounds
World Tour:
- No penalties for team wipes
- Enabled gameshow events
- Flexible loadout changes between team wipes and rounds
Game Improvements and New Features
Static Crosshair Setting
A static crosshair setting is now available, appealing to players who prefer a fixed aim point, ensuring it remains centered on the screen.
Onboarding Experience for New Players
New players will find refined introduction videos and tutorials, coupled with more advanced Cashout guidance. These resources outline gameplay mechanics like destruction and efficient navigation of menus.
OSPUZE-branded Starter Outfits
Both new players and seasoned veterans can access the OSPUZE-branded outfits, enhancing the in-game aesthetic and providing a fresh look.
Seasonal Progression
Battle Pass
Season 4 offers a Battle Pass with 106 reward levels, featuring items from sponsors like OSPUZE and new entrants IVADA.
Career Levels
Ten new Career Levels introduce additional rewards and milestones, sponsored by ENO+RINO, rewarding players for their progress.
Leaderboard Enhancements
Leaderboards have been vastly improved, offering regional filters and various new boards, including Quick Cash and Power Shift categories.
Circuits
With the removal of Contract completion requirements, Circuits now run parallel to World Tour stops. This change streamlines the process, allowing players to engage more fluidly with different tournament options.
Digital Content Expansion
DLC Availability
Players are offered three new DLC options at varied price points, with the Starter Pack making a return.
Balance Changes
A key balance focus this season, especially around archetypes like Heavy and Light, ensures a more equitable playing field, correcting previous disparities in performance statistics.
