MetalCore upgrades to Unreal 5 ahead of Season 1 launch

As it prepares to move into open beta, Immutable-based sci-fi shooter MetalCore has been making some significant behind-the-scenes changes.

The main one is the transition from Unreal Engine 4 to Unreal Engine 5, which as well as boosting graphical fidelity, will also optimize performance, making the game more accessible to lower spec hardware.

Aside from tech tweaks, the big news is MetalCore’s switch from a series of closed beta tests to a rolling open beta program. Season 1, which is called MetalPunk Rhapsody, will go live on Thursday 12th September.

Each season will last four weeks and highlight a different example of the game’s three factions, with season 1 focussing on the MetalPunks, hence the name. This will be supported with themed content, skins and storylines. Future seasons will cover the Gear Breakers and Holy Corp.

More generally, for Season 1 developer Studio369 has also improved the onboarding flow for new players and has – of course – added new PVP bounties and missions, including 10 player PVE raids.

Other additions include the introduction of unit rarities for mechs and vehicles, which are reflected in randomized strengths, stats and attributes. Finally, progress in each season will be recorded and rewarded in a new rewards system, offering time-limited prizes.

“With Season 1: MetalPunk Rhapsody, we’re opening the game to all players,” said Matt Candler, Studio369’s CEO.

“We’ve listened to our community and delivered the features they’ve been asking for, from UE5 visuals to Barony Wars. There’s never been a better time to join the action on Kerberos.”