Three years after its initial launch, Amazon Games has relaunched New World with a significant overhaul, rebranding it as New World: Aeternum. This revamped version marks a strategic shift for the game, moving away from its traditional MMO roots towards an action RPG experience, all while maintaining the option for multiplayer engagement. While Aeternum introduces several enjoyable elements, it also raises questions about the identity and long-term viability of the game.

A Shift in Philosophy

The most noticeable change in New World: Aeternum is its approach to gameplay mechanics. The original version heavily emphasized cooperative play, particularly for story missions. Now, players can complete the entire campaign solo, a decision that caters to those who prefer a more solitary gaming experience. This adjustment, while freeing, feels somewhat like an admission of  buy New World Coins defeat; it’s as if the game is retreating from the very genre it initially sought to champion.

Another significant alteration is the accelerated path to endgame content. Players can now access the most challenging aspects of the game much earlier, allowing for a quicker engagement with Aeternum's rewarding features. For players like me, who appreciate solo play, this change is welcomed. However, it’s hard to shake the feeling that the game is wrestling with its identity—straddling the line between a classic MMO and an action RPG.

The introduction of console versions for Xbox and PlayStation is a notable addition, allowing crossplay between platforms. This seamless integration is crucial for the game’s longevity, as it opens the door to a broader player base. New players can choose to join Fresh Start servers, where they won’t be overwhelmed by veterans who have spent years honing their skills.

Emphasizing Flexibility

One of the standout features of New World: Aeternum is its classless character system, which remains intact while introducing new weapons and gear. This flexibility allows players to experiment with their builds, adapting to new challenges without severe penalties. You can freely reallocate points until level 60, making it easy to adjust your strategy on the fly.

The addition of 10-player raids has been a highlight for many players. These endgame challenges require teamwork and strategic planning, offering some of the most enjoyable content in the game. Boss fights are exhilarating as players must learn and adapt to various attack patterns. However, a significant drawback is the permanent death mechanic during these encounters; once you’re out, you miss out on the action, which can be frustrating after investing significant time into a fight.

For those who prefer solo play, Solo Challenges provide an alternative. While these missions can be engaging, they often lack the excitement of  New World Gold group raids, particularly if players charge in with mismatched gear. Still, the ability to respec your character aids in finding the right fit for these challenges.

PvP and Exploration

New World: Aeternum has also introduced larger PvP zones, where players can engage in open combat. The allure of valuable loot draws players into these areas, but the constant threat of attack creates a high-stakes environment that keeps the adrenaline pumping. As a ranged attacker, I found great joy in picking off opponents from a distance, contributing to the chaotic skirmishes that often unfold.

However, despite these engaging mechanics, the exploration aspect has lost some of its luster. After spending countless hours in the world, returning to Aeternum felt less thrilling. The colonial aesthetic remains appealing, but the spaces between towns seem bland and uninspired. The thrill of discovering a new world has diminished, leaving the game feeling somewhat underwhelming.

Conclusion: A Mixed Bag

In conclusion, New World: Aeternum successfully positions itself as a more refined action RPG while retaining some MMO elements. Its quickened progression and flexibility in character-building create an enjoyable experience, particularly for those who prefer shorter play sessions. However, the game seems to struggle with its identity, grappling with what it wants to be in the long run.

While I appreciated the improvements and found the game to be a solid entry in the action RPG genre, I lacked the motivation to grind extensively. New World: Aeternum is a game I can easily drop into for casual play, but whether it can sustain my interest for the long haul remains to be seen. As it stands, it feels like a decent online game, one that offers moments of fun amidst its ongoing identity crisis.