Before attending the Summer Game Fest 2024, we received an invitation from Amazon to preview a game they planned to showcase. Although I was aware that Amazon was still developing games and already had its MMO, New World, I anticipated that a new title might be unveiled at the event. However, upon attending Amazon’s hands-on preview, I was surprised to discover that it wasn’t a new game at all. Instead, it was an updated version of New World, now headed to the PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S, titled New World: Aeternum.
Upon arriving at the Amazon booth, I was allotted 30 minutes to experience the game’s console version. After watching a brief introductory video, I was handed a controller and began by selecting an archetype during character creation. I explored the character customization options, which I commend for including a variety of hair textures, before diving into the story.
Based on my past experiences with MMOs developed for PC that later transition to consoles, they often lose something in the process. The gameplay mechanics might not translate well, or the controls can become clunky and awkward. However, this isn’t the case with New World: Aeternum. From the moment I started playing, everything worked seamlessly with the controller. I’ll delve into more details on that later.
What exactly is New World: Aeternum
While New World already exists for the PC, New World: Aeternum is set to make its debut on consoles, bringing with it significant changes aimed at enticing console players.
Firstly, New World: Aeternum has been adjusted and streamlined for a single-player experience. Although it remains true to its MMO roots, the game can now be played solo all the way to the endgame. Creative Director David Verfaillie explained that players had requested single-player content, citing the occasional hassle of coordinating with others. Many fans of New World wanted an option to enjoy the game as a solo experience without relying on others, which led to the creation of Aeternum.
David assured that the multiplayer experience remains intact, while a new 10-player raid and a new PVP zone are being added for those who like to play alongside others, with additional content for solo players. One notable new feature is repeatable Soul Trials, which allows players to fight bosses encountered during the story in daily instanced content. These bosses will be more challenging, offering fresh endgame content for solo adventurers and will provide rewards for completing them. This is the only sort of end game for single-player, and since this is an MMO, there’s no NG+.
One of the most significant changes in New World: Aeternum is the adaptation of controls similar to most console action RPGs, which were relatively easy to get used to. Selecting skills, equipping items, and navigating menus were straightforward, making the demo easier to play than I expected. Additionally, aim assist and lock-on controls enhance the controller experience. My only complaint was that the analog stick could be a bit more responsive when selecting items in the menu.
The game will also feature both quality and performance modes. Quality mode targets 4K resolution, while performance mode aims for a smoother 60 frames per second experience. While quality mode offers better visuals, it may occasionally dip in performance. During my hands-on session, the game was running in performance mode. Although it was still a bit rough, it played well. It’s important to note that this was just a beta, and I didn’t inquire about the build’s progress. Additionally, the game supports FSR on the PS5 and Xbox Series X|S, with plans to bring it to PC later.
Playing New World: Aeternum is a different beast
While I’ve mentioned how New World: Aeternum utilizes a controller, let me elaborate on how it simplifies combat. I typically play two different archetypes: a warrior to control the battlefield or a mage to nuke targets from a distance. For the demo, I chose the latter and found the controls similar to those in my favorite action RPGs. I used the fire staff, locking onto targets and using the right analog stick to switch between them. Dodging was straightforward with a simple button press, and blocking was equally intuitive when enemies got too close.
Since I’m familiar with this type of combat, it all clicked for me, and it’s completely different from the New World experience I had in the past. For those playing on the PC, I can’t wait for the update to become available, and you’ll be able to have official controller support. I know New World has some controller support, but this is better since this was made specifically for consoles. I’m not sure this won’t please everyone, though I feel it will be a start.
Additionally, although it wasn’t in the demo, New World: Aeternum will support cross-play, allowing both console and PC players to play together. This feature should give the console versions a significant boost, as PC players might consider switching to the console versions without worrying about losing their progress.
It was better than I expected
After my hands-on session with the New World: Aeternum demo, I shared with David Verfaillie that, despite my initial skepticism, I ended up enjoying the experience. It feels like a solid console game, and while I do have some concerns, David assured me that the New World team is dedicated to making this a worthwhile experience.
I wish I had more than 30 minutes, as it’s hardly enough time to form a solid judgment. Nonetheless, what I played was engaging and impressive enough that I’ve committed to checking out New World: Aeternum when it launches on PS5 and Xbox Series X|S this October 15, 2024.
