Season 23 of Apex Legends, called From the Rift, is almost here, bringing lots of changes like a new grenade launcher and a makeover for Lifeline.
Respawn has doubled down on making Apex Legends awesome, especially in 2024, with cool updates like enemy health bars and a strong push against cheaters. GameSpot had a chat with Respawn to dig into Lifeline’s new powers, the mysterious Rift Relics, and what the future holds for the game.
Respawn’s marketing style for new seasons has shifted, with Season 23 being the first with a multi-word title. What single word would you pick for this season?
“Just one word? I’d say ‘Support,’ but it doesn’t sound catchy,” said design director Evan Nikolich. After some laughs, the team suggested words like “Revival,” “Riftception,” and “Riftruption.”
With all these fresh changes, are there any features you’re particularly curious about players’ reactions to?
Legend designer Devan McGuire expressed excitement mixed with a bit of nervousness about how players will handle all the new class perks, especially with support characters reviving teammates super quickly now.
Running two supports in a team could mean twice the chance to bounce back into action, which might be a game-changer or a challenge, but that’s part of the fun and growth of the game.
The game now features over 25 Rift Relics appearing through mysterious rifts. Is the EPG-1 grenade launcher the only new weapon, or are there others?
Lead legend designer Mike Button teased that there are more weapons to discover, and fans will be pleasantly surprised by some familiar faces among the Rift Relics.
How do all these new items, including weapons, affect game balance with over 25 characters already in play?
“It’s intentionally disruptive,” Button explained. The temporary nature of these events allows for some experimentation, pushing boundaries while ensuring ranked play remains balanced and fair.
Fans love when things get shaken up a bit, as long as there’s some balance to keep it fun.
Can you share more about Boost Kits, the new Survival Item inventory additions?
Button described a Boost Kit called Void Reflex, which lets players phase out like Wraith if they take critical damage, giving them a moment to dodge into cover and heal.
Lifeline has a new look and abilities in Season 23. Will there be lore explaining these changes?
Principal writer Kevin Lee assured that there’s a story behind Lifeline’s new arm and skills, giving her more agency and a stronger role in the Apex Games storyline.
Lifeline can now fly in the trailer. What inspired that idea?
Funnell mentioned that DOC, Lifeline’s trusty drone, often saves her in trailers. This led to the idea of making Lifeline more mobile in the game, keeping up with fast teammates.
DOC’s upgrades make him more than just a healing bot, adding to Lifeline’s gameplay experience.
What was the biggest hurdle in designing Season 23, and how did you overcome it?
Button highlighted the challenge of creating so many event items and Rift Relics, crediting the team’s passion and dedication for making it happen.
What was your main objective with the big changes in Season 23?
Nikolich explained the aim was to surprise players by breaking their usual play patterns and introducing unexpected twists.
What are you most proud of in Season 23?
McGuire expressed pride in Lifeline’s new glide ability, a feature the team has long wanted to include, marking a significant achievement.
With no plans for an Apex Legends 2, what are your hopes for the game’s future?
Nikolich emphasized growing the game alongside its community, focusing on adapting to players’ needs and ensuring the game remains fresh and engaging.
Apex Legends is free to play on consoles and PC, and Season 23 starts November 5 at 10 AM PT / 1 PM ET.
