The Division 2 Takes Strict Action Against Cheaters in Epic Descent Battles

Massive Entertainment has addressed a recently discovered XP exploit in The Descent activity of The Division 2. In response, they have released a statement outlining the various levels of punishment for players who abuse it. The Division 2, which was launched in early 2019, has continued to grow through its live service model. Despite concerns about the series' future due to a content lull last year, Ubisoft and Massive Entertainment reassured fans by announcing their commitment to supporting The Division 2 with new content for at least another year.

In the latest update, Year 5 of The Division 2 Season 11, the Manhunt mechanic underwent changes. Players are now required to embark on rescue missions to locate missing VIP civilians. However, the most significant addition for most players in year 5 is the new rogue-lite game mode called Descent. In this mode, players have their gear, specializations, and perks stripped away, and must create new loadouts using equipment earned from defeating waves of enemies as they progress through the facility. Unfortunately, a bug in Ubisoft Connect allowed players to join ongoing matches, granting them a large amount of XP and SHD levels.

Massive Entertainment has addressed the recent exploit in The Division 2, deeming the acquisition of XP and SHD levels through the exploit unfair. In response, the studio has taken action against those who abused the glitch, implementing various sanctions based on their past misconduct. First-time offenders are receiving two-week suspensions, with further penalties for repeat offenses, eventually leading to a permanent ban. To level the playing field, sanctioned players are also having their progress reset, wiping out any gains made through the exploit.

This exploit has raised concerns due to the SHD mechanic, which comes into play after completing the Warlords of New York expansion campaign and reaching the maximum level. The Division 2 introduces a new Strategic Homeland Division progression system, allowing players to earn passive bonuses to health, damage, shields, and more as they level up. Similar to Paragon Levels in Diablo, the ability for Division players to exploit the SHD system gives them an unfair advantage over others who have not obtained these bonuses naturally.

Meanwhile, Ubisoft has a plethora of Division-related content in the pipeline. Although The Division 3 may not be on the horizon, players can anticipate the release of the mobile game Resurgence, as well as a unique standalone adventure titled The Division: Heartland. This new experience seems to heavily embrace the intense extraction shooter Dark Zone style gameplay that fans enjoy.

Tom Clancy's The Division 2 can currently be enjoyed on PC, PS4, and Xbox One platforms.