SMITE players, get ready for a new map and a new challenge

SMITE's season five begins with the biggest art and gameplay change ever.

The season five Conquest Map features upgraded art and new, highly requested gameplay changes to the premier 5v5 game mode.

Players will be able to jump in and try the new map for themselves on January 17th on SMITE's public test server.

Along with the updated map, Hi-Rez Studios revealed their 93rd playable character, Cerberus, the three-headed guardian of the underworld.

Later this year, they will introduce gods from two new pantheons, Slavic and Voodoo.

SMITE is available for free on Xbox, Playstation 4 and Steam.

PlayStation Plus members can get a head start on their collection with a free and exclusive offer, including 20 Gods and 31 Skins.

SMITE Lead Game Designer A.J. Walker says, "The season five map will feature perfect vertical symmetry between Order and Chaos.

"Lanes and Jungle paths will have the exact same shape on top and bottom, this balances the map, and removes timing differences to each side.

"Overall, this creates a more consistent gameplay experience.

The goal of these changes is to provide a unified aesthetic that breathes new life into the map while improving the gameplay experience.

SMITE community specialist Brett Felley says, "As a former pro player, it's been great seeing a dedicated teamwork on my favourite game.

"We've done many playtests with the new map and it's the most fun I've had with the game so far.

"I'm proud of our work on season five.

You can watch the trailer here: