Amazon Games' "New World: Aeternum" was announced during the Summer Game Fest presentation with a sense of mystery. Initially, it was unclear what exactly "Aeternum" would bring to the table. It’s not quite a sequel, but rather a soft relaunch of the original 2021 game. "Aeternum" introduces new quality of life features, revamped mechanics, enhanced combat, and a plethora of updates. It shifts from the traditional MMORPG gameplay towards more action-RPG elements. In an interview with PCGamesN, game director Scot Lane described the intent behind this relaunch:

"I call it a spiritual successor... By the time this comes out, we’ll have been live for three years. We’ve been partnering as closely as possible with players to drive the changes we’re making. This is the culmination of all that. I was talking to someone who was playing, who hadn’t played New World since its beginning, and they said ‘this feels like a different game, just in the same kind of genre.’ I think that’s what we were going for."

I had the opportunity to spend an hour with the game, diving into buy New World Coins the new and improved world of Aeternum.

Character Creation and Archetypes

The experience began in the character creation screen. The options for customizing your character were extensive, allowing me to fine-tune my avatar’s appearance. The real choice, however, was picking a starting class, known in Aeternum as archetypes. As a newcomer to "New World," I opted for the Soldier archetype. It is described as the most balanced and accessible for new players. In typical RPG fashion, your starting archetype determines your initial skills, gearset possibilities, and non-combat skills like cooking or fishing.

Diving into the Action

Immediately after character creation, the demo plunged me into action amidst the chaos of a fiery shipwreck on the shores of Aeternum. This dramatic start served as the tutorial level, where I learned the basics of combat, movement, and navigating the user interface. Compared to what I know of "New World" at its launch, Aeternum felt like a significant improvement. The tutorial was engaging and provided a solid foundation for understanding the game’s mechanics.

Exploring the Hub Area

After the tutorial, the demo opened up further, allowing me to explore a hub area. This area served as a central location for hunting, crafting, cooking, and battling numerous lower-level enemies. It was a perfect sandbox to get a deeper understanding of the world and its mechanics.

Hunting and Gathering

Hunting in Aeternum felt fluid and rewarding. The revamped combat system shined here, making each encounter with wildlife dynamic and engaging. The action-RPG elements were evident, with a more hands-on and responsive combat style. Gathering resources for crafting was seamlessly integrated into the environment, making it a natural part of exploration rather than a chore.

Crafting and Cooking

Crafting in Aeternum has seen a significant overhaul. The interface is more intuitive, and the process itself feels streamlined. I crafted various items, from weapons to tools, each requiring specific materials that I gathered during my exploration. Cooking, an essential non-combat skill, was equally satisfying. The cooking interface is easy to navigate, and the dishes I prepared provided helpful buffs and sustenance.

Combat and Enemies

The combat in Aeternum is one of the most notable improvements. It’s more action-oriented, requiring skill and strategy. The Soldier archetype I chose provided a balanced mix of offense and defense, making it ideal for learning the ropes. Fighting lower-level enemies in the hub area helped me understand the depth of the combat system. Dodging, blocking, and timing my attacks were crucial for success, and the new mechanics made every battle feel rewarding.

Revamped Mechanics

Aeternum introduces several revamped mechanics that enhance the overall gameplay experience. The action-RPG elements are evident in the fluid combat and dynamic interactions with the environment. The quality of life improvements, such as better inventory management and streamlined quest tracking, make the game more accessible without  New World Gold sacrificing depth.

Visual and Audio Upgrades

Visually, Aeternum is stunning. The graphics have been upgraded, with more detailed textures, improved lighting, and a richer color palette. The world of Aeternum feels alive, with diverse landscapes and intricate environmental details. The audio design complements the visual upgrades, with immersive sound effects and a captivating musical score that enhances the overall atmosphere.

Community and Player Feedback

One of the most commendable aspects of Aeternum is how closely Amazon Games has worked with the player community to drive these changes. As Scot Lane mentioned, this relaunch is the culmination of three years of player feedback and collaboration. This partnership with the community has ensured that the updates and improvements resonate with the player base, addressing their concerns and enhancing their experience.

Conclusion

"New World: Aeternum" is not just a relaunch; it’s a reimagining of what the game can be. With its enhanced combat, quality of life improvements, and dynamic action-RPG elements, Aeternum feels like a fresh, exciting adventure even for those familiar with the original game. My hour with the game left me impressed and eager to see more.

For players new to "New World" and veterans alike, Aeternum offers a revitalized experience that feels both familiar and innovative. It’s a testament to what can be achieved when developers listen to their community and continuously strive to improve. As we await the full release, Aeternum promises to deliver a rich, engaging, and rewarding journey in the ever-evolving world of Aeternum.