Released as a surprise in February 2019, Apex Legends is a free-to-play battle royale game developed by Respawn Entertainment and published by Electronic Arts. Unlike its contemporaries, it brought a refreshing twist to the genre by introducing unique heroes, or "Legends," each equipped with special abilities that cater to specific playstyles. Set in the Titanfall universe, the game cleverly avoided being a simple spin-off and instead established itself as a revolutionary title in the gaming world.
The development team, known for their work on Titanfall, crafted a polished experience that seamlessly blends fast-paced gunplay, fluid movement, and team-based tactics. It didn't take long for Apex Legends to build a dedicated player base, surpassing 50 million players within its first month. This explosive success speaks to its innovative design and wide appeal.
Gameplay Mechanics
At its core, Apex Legends follows the standard battle royale formula: teams drop onto a sprawling map, loot for weapons and gear, and fight to be the last squad standing. However, it stands out thanks to several innovative features:
Hero-Based Gameplay
Each Legend brings a unique set of tactical, passive, and ultimate abilities to the battlefield. This hero-based system adds depth to gameplay, encouraging teamwork and strategy. For example, Wraith’s portals enable quick repositioning, while Bangalore’s smoke grenades provide cover during intense firefights.
Ping System
One of the game's most celebrated features is its ping system, which allows players to communicate effectively without needing voice chat. Players can mark enemies, loot, or locations, fostering seamless coordination even in random squads.
Revival and Respawn
Unlike many battle royale games, being eliminated in Apex Legends doesn’t necessarily mean game over. Teammates can recover your banner and revive you at respawn beacons, adding an extra layer of strategy and hope to the game.
Game Modes
Initially, Apex Legends only featured the standard battle royale mode, but over time, Respawn introduced new modes to keep things fresh.
Battle Royale
The main mode pits up to 60 players in teams of three against each other on sprawling maps. The safe zone shrinks over time, forcing players into increasingly tense encounters.
Arenas
Introduced in Season 9, Arenas is a 3v3 mode where teams battle it out in smaller, more controlled environments. This mode emphasizes skill and tactics, stripping away the randomness of battle royale gameplay.
Limited-Time Modes
From Halloween's "Shadow Royale" to holiday-themed "Winter Express," Apex Legends frequently adds limited-time modes that provide a fun twist on its core gameplay.
The Legends: A Growing Roster
At launch, Apex Legends offered eight playable characters. Each Legend brings their own lore and personality to the game, enhancing its narrative depth.
Popular Legends
- Wraith: A stealthy interdimensional skirmisher, Wraith is ideal for players who enjoy hit-and-run tactics.
- Bloodhound: A tracker with unparalleled reconnaissance abilities, perfect for scouting enemy positions.
- Octane: A high-speed daredevil who excels at aggressive plays.
As of the latest season, the roster has expanded significantly, introducing characters like Valkyrie, a jetpack-wielding pilot, and Fuse, a grenade-loving explosives expert. These additions not only diversify gameplay but also cater to various playstyles.
Seasons and Updates
Apex Legends thrives on its seasonal model. Each season brings new Legends, weapons, map changes, and events.
Season Highlights
- Season 3: Meltdown: Introduced World’s Edge, a map with diverse environments ranging from icy tundras to molten lava fields.
- Season 7: Ascension: Added the map Olympus, a floating city with a futuristic aesthetic.
- Season 13: Saviors: Focused on improving ranked gameplay and introduced Legend Newcastle, a defensive powerhouse.
Respawn's commitment to updating the game ensures it remains fresh and engaging, with each season offering a mix of balance tweaks and new content.
Maps and World-Building
Maps in Apex Legends are more than just battlegrounds—they’re narrative tools that reflect the evolving story of the Outlands. From the iconic Skull Town in King’s Canyon to the neon-lit streets of Olympus, each location is meticulously designed to cater to different playstyles.
Dynamic Maps
Maps evolve over time to reflect in-game events. For instance, King’s Canyon has undergone numerous changes, including the destruction of Skull Town, while World’s Edge was transformed by a harvester drilling into its core.
Cross-Platform Play and Accessibility
In October 2020, Respawn introduced cross-platform play, allowing players on PlayStation, Xbox, PC, and Nintendo Switch to squad up together. This feature expanded the game’s player base and bridged gaps between communities.
While Apex Legends doesn’t yet support full cross-progression, Respawn has teased its potential in future updates. The addition of a Nintendo Switch version in 2021 made the game accessible to an even broader audience.
Esports and Competitive Play
The Apex Legends Global Series (ALGS) has cemented the game as an esports powerhouse. With high-stakes tournaments, top-tier teams, and jaw-dropping plays, the competitive scene continues to thrive.
Top Teams
Organizations like TSM, NRG, and G2 Esports have consistently dominated the ALGS, showcasing the skill ceiling of the game. Matches are intense and strategic, with every decision potentially leading to victory or defeat.
Monetization and Cosmetics
While Apex Legends is free to play, it relies on microtransactions for revenue. The seasonal Battle Pass provides a structured way for players to earn cosmetics, while limited-time events often feature premium skins and heirlooms.
Respawn has faced criticism for the pricing of certain cosmetics, but the quality and design of these items often justify their appeal.
Impact and Legacy
Apex Legends has redefined what a battle royale game can be. Its influence is evident in other titles that have adopted hero mechanics or refined communication systems inspired by its ping feature.
Game Overview
- Genre: Battle Royale / Hero Shooter
- Release Year: 2019
- Platforms: PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, PC (Windows), Nintendo Switch
- Game Ratings:
- IGN: 8.5/10
- Metacritic: 88/100
- Player Modes: Online Multiplayer (Battle Royale and Arenas)
- Developer/Publisher: Respawn Entertainment / Electronic Arts
- Awards:
- The Game Awards 2019: Best Multiplayer Game
- Multiple nominations for Best Ongoing Game
Our Rating and Final Thoughts
Rating: 9/10
Apex Legends is an outstanding blend of strategy, action, and teamwork. Its unique mechanics and evolving content make it a standout in the crowded battle royale genre. Whether you’re a casual player or a competitive enthusiast, this game is well worth your time.
Is it worth playing?
Absolutely. With its free-to-play model, constant updates, and robust community, Apex Legends is a must-try for anyone looking for a fast-paced and engaging gaming experience.