Amazon Games’ has made significant waves in the mmoexp genre since its release. Set in the mysterious and supernatural island of Aeternum, the game offers a unique blend of exploration, crafting, and combat, all wrapped up in a beautiful, albeit haunting, open world. In this review, we will delve into various aspects of New World, including its gameplay mechanics, visuals, community dynamics, and overall player experience.
The World of Aeternum
Aeternum is an island filled with rich lore, vibrant environments, and diverse landscapes. From lush forests to barren deserts, the world is meticulously designed to draw players in. The geography not only serves as a backdrop for adventure but also influences gameplay. Different areas house unique resources, creatures, and quests, encouraging players to explore the vastness of the island.
Visuals and Design
One of the standout features of New World is its graphics. Built on the Amazon Lumberyard engine, the game boasts stunning visuals that bring Aeternum to life. The lighting effects, environmental details, and character models are all meticulously crafted, creating an immersive experience. The vibrant colors of the foliage, the haunting beauty of the ruins, and the majestic mountains make every corner of the island a visual feast.
The art direction is deeply rooted in the historical and mystical elements of the game’s setting. The architecture, for instance, reflects various historical influences, from medieval European to Native American styles, intertwining them with fantastical elements. This attention to detail enhances the world-building, making players feel like they are truly part of a living, breathing ecosystem.
Gameplay Mechanics
New World’s gameplay is a unique blend of traditional mmoexp elements and innovative mechanics that set it apart from its competitors. Players can choose from three primary factions, engage in PvP (player vs. player) battles, and embark on various quests that contribute to their character's development and the game’s overarching narrative.
Combat System
The combat system in New World is one of its most intriguing aspects. Unlike many mmoexp that rely on tab-targeting systems, New World opts for a more action-oriented approach. Players have to aim their attacks, block, and dodge in real-time, creating a more engaging and dynamic combat experience. This system rewards skill and timing, making each encounter feel more personal and intense.
Players can choose from a variety of weapons, each with unique abilities and playstyles. From swords and shields to bows and magic staffs, the weapon choices allow for extensive customization and experimentation. Additionally, the game encourages hybrid builds, enabling players to mix and match weapons and skills to create their own unique combat styles.
Crafting and Gathering
Crafting plays a significant role in New World, offering players the chance to gather resources and create a wide array of items, from weapons and armor to potions and food. The gathering system is robust, requiring players to collect materials from the environment, such as wood, stone, and herbs. This aspect of gameplay encourages exploration and engagement with the world, as players must venture into different regions to find the resources they need.
The crafting process itself is intuitive, with a user-friendly interface that allows players to easily see what materials are required for each item. Additionally, the game features a progression system for crafting, enabling players to improve their skills over time. This not only incentivizes crafting but also creates a player-driven economy where crafted items hold real value.
Quests and Progression
Quests in New World are varied, offering a mix of main story missions, side quests, and faction missions. The main story quests guide players through the lore of Aeternum, introducing them to key characters and factions while exploring the island’s mysteries. Side quests often revolve around gathering resources, defeating enemies, or completing tasks for NPCs, adding depth to the world and encouraging players to engage with its many facets.
The progression system is designed to keep players invested in their characters. As players complete quests and defeat enemies, they gain experience points (XP) that contribute to their overall level. Additionally, skills in crafting, gathering, and weapon usage also improve with use, allowing for a deep sense of growth and accomplishment.
Player Interaction and Community
Aeternum is not just a solitary experience; it thrives on player interaction. The game encourages players to form alliances through its faction system, where they can join one of three factions: the Marauders, the Syndicate, or the Covenant. These factions compete for control over territories, leading to large-scale PvP battles that can shift the balance of power on the island.
Territory Control and PvP
The territory control system is a significant aspect of New World’s gameplay. Players can claim territories for their factions, which involves strategic planning, resource management, and combat. This creates a sense of community and competition, as factions work together to fortify their holdings and defend against rival factions.
PvP battles can be exhilarating, with large-scale sieges and skirmishes that draw in players from all over the server. These events can be chaotic and require coordination and teamwork, making victories feel hard-earned and rewarding. However, it’s worth noting that players can also engage in open-world PvP at their discretion, adding an additional layer of excitement and risk.