Though Tom Clancy's The Division release date won't be until next year, news updates reveal that the game might be potentially downgraded. This development follows right after it was revealed that the game's stealth element was removed.

Graphics Apparently Downgraded with Gamescom Demo

At Gamescom 2015, gamers complained that the Gamescom Demo showed a noticeable drop in graphics in comparison to what was shown at E3 2015 back in June.

Based on a YouTube video by DemonRalph, some visuals including dynamic shadows are absent. However, commentator Mike Keo argued that lighting was affected because the scene in the video took place inside of a blizzard.  Ralph also claimed that the The Division was at "Watch Dogs" level. Previously, the Watch Dogs videogame attracted controversy due to allegations of downgraded graphics.

Naturally, the only way to confirm what The Division will look like is to wait for its release date on March 8, 2016.

No Melee and Stealth

Developer Ubisoft Massive appears to have removed melee and stealth from The Division, according to a YouTube video by MarcoStyle.

The videogame observer believes that the decision was made to avoid players abusing melees and stealth kills in multiplayer. Melees may have been cancelled for the very same reason. In previous titles, stealth takedowns and melee were usually one-hit-affairs to make the maneuver more viable in a gun-heavy gameplay environment.

Regarding suppressed firearms, he pointed out that well-placed headshots are not enough to take out opponents because everyone starts out with insanely high health levels. This comes as a surprise considering that last year's gameplay footage clearly showed silent takedowns.

Those who favor stealth may be in for a great disappointment, considering the cover system still allows players to sneak up on opponents. Even though ambushes are still possible, the lack of silent takedowns means players will spend more time gunning at each other.

The Division Pre-Order Details

Players can now pre-order the game at major U.S. retailers and online merchants. Those who pre-order will gain guaranteed access to Beta testing.

Upon release, Players have their choice of three editions - Standard, Collector's, and Gold. Both the Collector's and Gold version come with additional memorabilia and in-game content.

The Collector's edition includes Season Pass, an agent's watch, poster, agent armband, and art book. Customers will also have access to the Urban Jungle content, which features flamethrower-wielding thugs and deadly enemy factions. Gold edition comes with Season Pass, and exclusive National Guard gear set. In-game content includes custom weapons, gear, and clothing.