Amazon Games’ New World is experiencing renewed interest thanks to its console release, allowing players to explore the mystical world of Aeternum from their Xbox Series X or PlayStation 5. However, while the console launch has been met with excitement, it has also exposed a significant flaw that impacts players who want to continue their progress across different platforms: the lack of cross-progression.

Cross-progression, a feature that allows players to carry their in-game progress across platforms, has become almost expected in the modern gaming landscape, especially in multiplayer titles. Unfortunately, New World players must start from scratch if they want to switch from PC to console, a fact that has been particularly frustrating for players who have invested time and effort into buy New World Coins  leveling their characters on one platform.

The Problem with Aeternum’s Platform Divide

For players who began their New World journey on PC, moving to console presents a difficult choice. They can either leave behind the characters they’ve dedicated time to leveling and exploring with or start over on a new platform. Many players, like those who’ve reached the level cap of 65, feel the weight of this decision heavily. The investment in gear, skills, and achievements accumulated since the game’s 2021 launch is essentially lost if they want to experience the game from the comfort of their couch.

One player shared the experience of booting up the console version of New World on Xbox Series X, only to realize they were leaving behind their carefully leveled Rapier-wielding character on PC. This character, who had faced challenges like defeating Artemis, exploring the Elysian Wilds, and battling the Angry Earth, is now “left to wallow” as the player starts over on a new device. The console version may offer convenience and a higher server population, but for seasoned players, it comes at the cost of abandoning hard-earned progress.

Why Cross-Progression Matters

Cross-progression offers a seamless experience across devices and can help retain player interest in the long term. Games like Fortnite, Destiny 2, and Genshin Impact have successfully implemented this feature, allowing players to switch between PC and consoles without losing progress. In today’s gaming ecosystem, where players often move between platforms for various reasons—whether for social gaming, convenience, or improved graphics—cross-progression can make or break a game’s user experience.

Without cross-progression, New World is potentially alienating both existing players who want to switch to  New World Gold console and new console players who may one day wish to try the game on PC. While console newcomers may not initially notice the absence of cross-progression, they will encounter the same frustrations if they ever decide to make the jump to PC.

A Missed Opportunity for New World’s Console Debut

New World’s console release could have been an opportunity to unify its community, bridging the divide between PC and console players and making it easier for new and returning players to dive into Aeternum. For many long-time players, the MMO’s initial launch in 2021 was marked by a grind that they endured to build up their characters. Revisiting the game on console with the same character would have been an ideal way to relive New World’s early content without feeling like progress was lost.

The lack of cross-progression has sparked a conversation within the New World community about Amazon Games’ approach to player needs. While the developers have delivered various updates to address player feedback—such as improving combat mechanics, refining quests, and adding quality-of-life features—the absence of cross-progression feels like a backward step in terms of accessibility and flexibility.

Can Amazon Games Address the Issue?

It’s clear that adding cross-progression to New World would be technically challenging, requiring significant backend work to integrate player data across platforms. However, given the increasing demand for cross-platform compatibility in MMOs, it’s a step worth considering to retain the game’s player base. As New World evolves and Amazon Games seeks to expand its audience, addressing this issue could solidify the game’s position in the competitive MMO market.

Aeternum’s Future: Embracing Modern Player Expectations

As New World continues to develop and capture the attention of MMO fans worldwide, adding cross-progression could help the game reach its full potential. Until then, New World’s lack of cross-progression will remain a source of frustration for long-time players who feel the limitations of the platform divide. For now, fans can only hope Amazon Games recognizes the importance of this feature and considers it for future updates, making Aeternum a more accessible world for everyone, regardless of their platform of choice.