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New World: Aeternum is that genre of game that grabs your soul and takes it into the depths of hell. It is such a time-sink that COD widows will laugh as their partners still pay them some attention. I haven’t played an MMORPG of this depth for a considerable time. Unfortunately, I’m too busy and I cannot commit the hours you need to be successful. Thankfully, this MMO is different! Yes, it absorbs you in an unhealthy way, but you can break free when real life comes calling.
This MMO was developed by Amazon Games Orange County Studio and published by Amazon Games. Furthermore, it has been penned as an Action RPG, but I think that is a little misleading. If you love souls-like experiences and you come into this expecting something similar, you are going to be disappointed. At its roots, this is atypically MMO. The combat demands a numbers-based mindset and the usual slash, move, slash, roll, slash, magic loop is at the fore. Consequently, if you want something slightly more challenging, you may wish to look elsewhere.
New World: Aeternum isn’t a new game!
Though this has been pushed as a new game, it isn’t. New World: Aeternum is more of a reimagining of its former self. Furthermore, it has been refined for a console audience. This move was great as solo players feel more at home and you are not punished if you are anti-social. However, if you love to raid, team up, and enjoy the normal social aspects of this wonderful genre, you are free to do so.
On top of this, there is PvP if that is your thing. This 100% isn’t my thing and it never has been. I hate the thought of losing everything and I know I’ll get my ass kicked repeatedly. Subsequently, you online bullies can stay in your angry bubble while I enjoy picking up resources and fighting wolves and boars by myself.
Pick your class.
New World: Aeternum pushes you towards an archetypal character during the creation screen. Now, if you are not familiar with the genre, this could be quite daunting. Yet, worry not as it is pretty self-explanatory. You can choose from 7 different classes and I plumped for a Ranger. The other options gave you a boost in magic or close-quarter combat. However, I think the Ranger is quite a glorious role that keeps out of trouble.
Once you have your character created, you are thrust into the action. No rest for the wicked as they say as your adventure begins immediately. Yet, there is little pressure and you can take as long as you wish as you explore your opening surroundings. This was great as I could slay as many minor beasts as I could get my hands on. Moreover, it takes a lot to fill your inventory, so hoarders can fill their boots without worrying about the consequences.
Spectacular character progression.
The world is filled with resources and materials that must be gathered. If you are like me, you won’t be able to walk past anything that could be valuable. This could be deemed a problem, but storage solutions and a lovely house are provided early on. This was great as you can gather as much crap as you can find and dump it at your “base” without any penalties. Now, you may be wondering why I’m mentioning this. Well, crafting is a big part of New World: Aeternum.
Unlike other games, this has a spectacular system that fast builds any item you select. What’s more, you unlock new recipes by completing each task. Long gone are the requirements to search out hundreds of blueprints. Instead, your hard work is rewarded with tangible items and new recipes. On top of this, you earn general XP to help your character to improve. Subsequently, the hours you spend making random items aren’t a waste of time.
New World: Aeternum looks phenomenal.
Though MMO gaming is considered a PC thing, New World: Aeternum is absolutely phenomenal to look at. The vast world is a joy to explore. Moreover, character animation and models are smooth and interesting to the eye. On top of this, the UI is surprisingly easy to navigate and you rarely struggle with the PC interface. Playing this on the Xbox Series X was a treat. The render distance was great and the frame rate was steady and I have no complaints.
The audio delivers a rich and dramatic soundscape that matches the best fantasy games available. What’s more, the nod to the 17th century with the old-school weaponry was excellent. I loved the ambient sounds and the occasionally relaxing moments. On top of this, there is some creative licence as magic plays a heavy part in setting the scene. As such, don’t expect it to be 100% realistic.
Excellent controls.
Each activity is time-consuming and demands your attention. As such, a poor control layout or sluggish controls would have been a nightmare. Thankfully, New World: Aeternum suffers from neither of these shortcomings. Yes, there is the occasional PC UI crossover, but these are easy to handle and they do not get in your way. Whenever you are exploring the vast world, gathering resources, or fighting alone or with a group, the controls do not let you down.
This genre will suck time out of your life. Subsequently, it oozes replay value and longevity. Normally, MMOs are reserved for groups of online gamers. However, you can play alone and you are not penalised. This was spectacular as it has more of a casual feel than many of its peers.
New World: Aeternum is a great addition to the genre.
This wasn’t an easy game to review. I never quite know when I’ve played enough and always look for new ideas, mechanics, or elements to consider. As such, I haven’t completed the game and I wanted to be open about it. Yet, I’ve invested enough time to form an opinion about this great MMO/action-adventure game. If you want to lose yourself in a vast world filled with monsters, danger, and plenty of quests, I recommend buying it here! Can you become the hero you are destined to be? Pick your class, master your skills, and go on a journey like none other.
