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Blue Protocol, the upcoming online action-RPG from Bandai Namco, is getting a new network test early next year. The development team announced the decision during a stream event held on November 15, 2022. However, the details were hinted at last week. The last time players had a chance to play the game was during a stress test conducted in November 2020. The next Blue Protocol network test is scheduled for January 14-16, 2023 [Thanks, Denfaminico Gamer!].
According to the team, basic development on Blue Protocol is finished. The network test is part of the current phase, which involves balance adjustments and debugging. The goal of the network test is to see how the game’s infrastructure and servers function under load. With the launch window now set for Spring 2023, such tests are necessary to ensure the game will be playable on the big day. That is when large numbers of players will be attempting to get in and explore. The test will also have more options available than previous test phases. These include higher-quality graphical settings and adjusted presets to reflect the latest game build. The team said that the results of the network test may affect the target date for launch. Which is to say, if things go very poorly, the launch might be pushed back.
The team also shared PC system specification targets for various performance presets.
The lowest-level graphical settings demand a minimum of 8GB of RAM and a GPU with 2GB of video memory. It’ll run at 720p resolution. The medium-range settings require 16GB RAM at least, as well as a 6GB GPU, such as the Nvidia Geforce GTX 1060 or AMD Radeon RX580. The top-end graphics settings demand hardware still considered high-end not long ago, like the Nvidia RTX2070 Super and RX5700 XT. Both specs target 1080p resolutions.
The team also noted that the Blue Protocol network test will be set for 50,000 players in total. If the number of applicants exceeds their target, they’ll award slots using a lottery system. Applications will be processed through the official website until December 13, 2022. Currently, the test is only open to Japanese residents.
Blue Protocol is in development for PC, and due in Spring 2023 in Japan. The network test kicks off on January 14, 2023.
