Introduction

"New World: Aeternum" is the latest iteration of Amazon's ambitious MMORPG, "New World," which first launched in 2021. This version aims to refine the original experience, offering a more accessible and engaging journey for both new and veteran players. Aeternum blends elements of swords, magic, and gunpowder in a vibrant, stylized world, promising a rich and immersive experience. In this review, we'll delve into the game's strengths, weaknesses, and whether it's worth diving into in 2024.

Gameplay and Mechanics

Combat System: One of the standout features of "New World: Aeternum" is its combat system. Unlike some MMORPGs that rely on button-mashing, Aeternum requires strategy and skill. Players must time their maneuvers and plan their actions carefully, making each battle engaging and challenging. Whether fighting against monsters or engaging in PvP combat, the combat mechanics are consistently satisfying.

In "New World: Aeternum," players can earn and utilize New World coins in various aspects of the game, such as trading with other players, purchasing essential items, and participating in the in-game economy. The use of these coins fosters a dynamic marketplace where players can exchange goods and resources. This system is integral to the game's world-building and community interaction, allowing players to accumulate wealth and status through exploration, crafting, and trading.

Crafting and Exploration: The crafting system is another highlight, allowing players to learn new recipes and skills by participating in activities. This "learn by doing" approach encourages exploration and experimentation, making crafting a core part of the gameplay experience. The world of Aeternum is vast and diverse, with environments ranging from lush forests to eerie ruins, inviting players to explore and discover new locations.

Accessibility and Community

Aeternum has made significant strides in accessibility, particularly for solo and console players. The game offers a lot of solo-friendly content, allowing players to enjoy the game without feeling pressured to engage in multiplayer activities. However, multiplayer features are still present and offer powerful gear and engaging experiences for those who prefer co-op or PvP gameplay.

The community in Aeternum is welcoming, with players often coming together to explore the world or participate in group activities. This social aspect enhances the overall experience, making it feel like you're part of a larger, dynamic world.

Visuals and Audio

Visually, Aeternum boasts a colorful and stylized art style, though some textures and character models could be more detailed. The game's environments are varied and beautiful, with moments of stunning scenery. However, some minor issues like texture pop-in can detract from the experience.

The audio design is excellent, with a memorable score and engaging diegetic music. Players can even learn and play instruments together, adding a unique social element to the game.

Story and Originality

While the story in Aeternum is engaging and easy to follow, it lacks originality and depth. The narrative is straightforward and fun, but it doesn't break new ground in storytelling. The game's setting, which combines elements of the 17th and 18th centuries with supernatural elements, is intriguing but not particularly innovative.

Conclusion

"New World: Aeternum" is a refined and enjoyable MMORPG that offers a lot for both new and experienced players. Its engaging combat, accessible gameplay, and vibrant world make it a great choice for those looking to immerse themselves in a large-scale MMO. While it may not revolutionize the genre, Aeternum is certainly worth playing, especially for fans of exploration, crafting, and dynamic combat.

Pros:

  • Engaging Combat: Requires strategy and skill.

  • Accessible Gameplay: Suitable for solo and console players.

  • Vibrant World: Offers diverse and beautiful environments.

  • Crafting System: Encourages exploration and experimentation.

Cons:

  • Lack of Originality: Story and gameplay mechanics are not groundbreaking.

  • Minor Visual Issues: Texture pop-in and some character models could be improved.

  • Story Depth: While engaging, the narrative is somewhat bland.

Overall, "New World: Aeternum" is a solid choice for anyone looking for a fun and immersive MMORPG experience in 2024.