EMPULSE combines fast-paced shooter action with heavy focus on movement and mech gameplay, so understanding its maps and modes is crucial if you want to dominate.
During the EMPULSE Demo and Early Access period starting on June 24, you can jump into multiple multiplayer modes ranging from classic Team Deathmatch to objective-focused experiences like Upload, Intel, and Control. The game also features several maps designed to support both gun combat and mech engagements.
All maps in EMPULSE listed
- Elevation
- Harbor
- Plaza
- Refinery
- Seadock
EMPULSE currently features five maps in demo. Each map offers a distinct layout, ranging from tight urban battlegrounds and industrial facilities to vertically focused arenas that emphasize movement and positioning.
All modes in EMPULSE explained
| Mode | Description/Objective |
|---|---|
| Team Deathmatch | In TDM, you just have to eliminate enemy players and mechs while helping your team reach the score limit before the opposing side. Since there are no objectives to manage, this mode is ideal for learning weapon recoil patterns, experimenting with mech loadouts, and mastering movement mechanics. |
| Upload | Two teams compete for control of a ball that must be delivered to the enemy base. You can either throw the ball into the objective or carry it directly into the scoring zone for bonus points. |
| Intel | Intel focuses on maintaining possession rather than transporting an objective. Your team must hold the Intel for a total of 30 seconds to earn a point. Once a team scores, the objective resets and the battle begins again. Success in Intel depends heavily on teamwork. Protecting the player carrying the objective and controlling nearby routes is often more important than chasing eliminations. |
| Control | Control is a permanent territory-based mode that emphasizes strategy and efficient use of lives. Teams alternate between attacking and defending objective zones while managing a limited pool of respawns. Victory can be achieved in two ways: – Capture both objective points. – Eliminate all 35 lives available to the opposing team. Since every death impacts the team’s remaining resources, reckless pushes are punished much more severely than in Team Deathmatch. Coordinated attacks, smart positioning, and effective mech usage are essential for success. |
|
Lancer v Lancer (available on June 19 only) |
Available beginning June 19 for a limited 24-hour period, this mode removes mechs entirely and focuses solely on infantry movement and gunplay. Players looking to sharpen their mechanical skills or experience movement system without mech interference should make time to try it before it disappears. |
|
Competitive Practice (starts on June 20) |
Competitive Practice is a 4v4 playlist designed for players who want a more serious and structured experience. With smaller teams and increased individual responsibility, matches become significantly more intense. The playlist uses the competitive ruleset that will eventually be used for Ranked play, which launches on day one of Early Access. It’s also an opportunity for the community to provide feedback on the ranked format before the full competitive experience goes live. |
Best mode to play in EMPULSE for beginners
If you’re completely new to EMPULSE, Team Deathmatch is the easiest way to learn weapons, movement, and mech mechanics. Those who enjoy objective-based gameplay should try Upload or Intel.
To learn more about EMPULSE, explore our detailed breakdowns of all the weapons and P.A.I.N.T. Bombs, along with the best Perks to use for your loadout.
