The journey through Aeternum, the mythical island at the heart of New World, takes an exciting twist with the release of the Rise of the Angry Earth expansion. Released by Amazon Games, this significant update injects fresh life into the MMORPG landscape with its array of features, expansions to the lore, and much-needed gameplay enhancements. This comprehensive review will delve into the most prominent elements of this expansion, providing an insightful look at the transformation it brings to the New World experience.
Introduction to 'Rise of the Angry Earth'
The Rise of the Angry Earth expansion signals a bold step forward for New World, a game that, since its debut, has captured players with its sprawling open world and community-driven gameplay. This update represents more than just an add-on; it reinvents the game with new mechanics, improved systems, and a storyline that enriches the lore of Aeternum. For seasoned adventurers, this is an invitation to delve deeper into a familiar world with a fresh perspective. For newcomers, it’s a perfect starting point, thanks to the expanded accessibility and thrilling new features.
The story picks up in First Light, a familiar location now transformed into the enigmatic Elysian Wilds. The once-vibrant land has succumbed to the Angry Earth, an otherworldly force that reshapes everything it touches. This premise sets the stage for an epic journey filled with danger, discovery, and the thrill of mastering Aeternum's ever-changing landscape.
New Features and Content
Mounts: Changing the Way You Explore
One of the most anticipated additions to New World comes in the form of mounts. Finally, players can traverse Aeternum's expansive world with horses, dire wolves, and lions, each offering unique aesthetic customization through dyeable equipment. Mounts not only make exploration more efficient but also add a new layer of immersion. Imagine galloping through dense forests or charging into battle atop a mighty lion—it’s a game-changer in how players experience the world.
Unlocking mounts is tied to progression, ensuring players engage with the content to earn this prized utility. The mechanics are smooth, intuitive, and seamlessly integrated into gameplay, avoiding the pitfalls often associated with mount systems in other MMORPGs.
Artifact Gear: Power Redefined
Artifact Gear introduces a new rarity level, redefining how players approach equipment. This gear is not only powerful but also customizable, allowing players to tailor attributes and abilities to suit their playstyle. The introduction of Artifact Gear brings a welcome layer of complexity to progression, rewarding effort with tangible improvements and strategic depth.
Gameplay Enhancements
Level Cap Increase and Progression Updates
With the level cap raised to 65, players have new goals to chase. The journey from 60 to 65 isn’t just about grinding; it’s an opportunity to explore revamped zones, tackle new enemies, and engage with enriched lore. The progression updates feel balanced, rewarding players for their efforts while maintaining a steady challenge curve.
In addition to the level cap, the skill system has undergone refinements, making character customization more meaningful. Whether you're a tank, healer, or DPS enthusiast, the new mechanics empower players to craft unique builds that resonate with their preferred playstyle.
Revamped Mutations
Expeditions, a staple of New World, receive a major overhaul with the revamped mutation system. These alterations provide increased replayability and challenge, making expeditions more dynamic. From environmental effects to new enemy behavior, every run feels fresh and rewarding.
Storyline and Lore
Fall of First Light
The transformation of First Light into the Elysian Wilds is a masterstroke in storytelling. This once-prosperous region now teems with mystery and danger, reflecting the unchecked power of the Angry Earth. The narrative weaves a compelling tale of hubris and resilience, challenging players to uncover the truth behind the region's downfall.
Beast Lords and the Angry Earth
Central to the expansion's lore are the Beast Lords, enigmatic figures tied to the rise of the Angry Earth. Their motivations and origins form the backbone of the story, offering a rich tapestry of conflict and intrigue. The expansion does an excellent job of blending world-building with player engagement, ensuring the narrative feels personal yet expansive.
Elysian Wilds and New Expeditions
The Elysian Wilds are more than just a visual overhaul—they are a testament to the development team’s commitment to world-building. This lush, untamed landscape is brimming with secrets, rare resources, and formidable enemies. From towering ancient trees to glowing bioluminescent flora, the visual and auditory design immerses players in a world that feels alive.
The Savage Divide Expedition, a highlight of this expansion, is a cooperative challenge that tests teamwork and strategy. The rewards—ranging from Artifact Gear to rare crafting materials—make every expedition worthwhile.
Availability and Pricing
Rise of the Angry Earth is a paid expansion, priced at $29.99. For newcomers, the Elysian Edition bundle offers great value, combining the base game with the expansion for $59.99. This pricing structure ensures accessibility while rewarding loyal players.
Player Reception and Reviews
The initial reception to Rise of the Angry Earth has been overwhelmingly positive. Players have praised the seamless integration of new features, the depth of the lore, and the quality-of-life improvements. Critics have similarly lauded the expansion, with many highlighting its transformative impact on New World.
Future Updates and Roadmap
Amazon Games has hinted at exciting developments on the horizon, including new expeditions, expanded story arcs, and additional weapons. This forward-looking approach ensures that New World remains dynamic, continuously offering players reasons to return.
Graphics and Performance
One of the standout aspects of Rise of the Angry Earth is its visual presentation. The Elysian Wilds zone sets a new benchmark for the game, featuring dense forests, glowing flora, and otherworldly designs that immerse players in its surreal environment. The lighting and textures are enhanced compared to the base game, reflecting a deliberate effort to push the graphical boundaries. Whether it’s the vibrant colors of the new biome or the realistic animations of mounts and beasts, every detail feels carefully crafted.
Performance-wise, the game runs smoothly for most players, provided they meet the recommended system requirements. Occasional frame drops can occur in high-density areas, but these are minimal and do not detract from the experience. The optimization work for this expansion showcases the developers’ dedication to delivering a polished product.
Multiplayer and Community Engagement
As an MMORPG, New World thrives on its community-driven design, and Rise of the Angry Earth capitalizes on this by introducing more cooperative gameplay elements. The new Savage Divide Expedition encourages players to team up and strategize, fostering a sense of camaraderie and teamwork. Additionally, the revamped mutation system in expeditions adds a layer of replayability, keeping endgame content engaging for veteran players.
The community has also rallied around the expansion, with in-game events and player-led initiatives celebrating the new content. Whether it's mount racing tournaments or lore-inspired roleplaying events, the player base has embraced the expansion with creativity and enthusiasm.
Challenges and Limitations
While Rise of the Angry Earth introduces a wealth of content, it isn’t without its flaws. Some players have expressed concerns about the grind required to unlock mounts or artifact gear. For those who prefer a more casual experience, these progression systems can feel daunting. Additionally, while the narrative is compelling, certain story beats feel rushed, leaving players wanting more depth in the lore.
Another point of contention is the expansion's pricing. While many see the value in the content offered, others feel that the cost might deter new players or those who are undecided about the game.
Is It Worth Playing?
The answer to whether Rise of the Angry Earth is worth playing depends on your expectations and preferences. For long-time fans of New World, this expansion is a no-brainer. It revitalizes the game with innovative features, a fresh storyline, and gameplay enhancements that address past criticisms. For newcomers, the expansion’s bundled Elysian Edition offers a comprehensive entry point into the game, allowing them to experience both the base content and the new features seamlessly.
However, those seeking a more relaxed or purely solo experience may find the expansion’s challenges and progression systems somewhat overwhelming. That said, the introduction of mounts and artifact gear adds universal appeal, making the game’s vast world more accessible and rewarding.
Game Details
- Genre: MMORPG
- Release Year: Base game (2021), Rise of the Angry Earth expansion (2023)
- Platforms: PC
- Age Rating: PEGI 16 / ESRB T (Teen)
- Player Modes: Multiplayer (MMORPG)
- Game Mode Accessibility: Online only
- Pricing Model: Paid (Expansion $29.99; Elysian Edition $59.99)
- Developer: Amazon Games
- Publisher: Amazon Games
- Game Engine: Lumberyard
- Awards and Nominations: While New World received accolades for its innovative gameplay at launch, the expansion has yet to secure major awards.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Stunning visuals and immersive world-building.
- Introduction of mounts revolutionizes exploration.
- Engaging new storyline and lore expansion.
- Artifact gear adds depth to character progression.
- Revamped expeditions increase replayability.
Cons:
- Progression systems may feel grind-heavy.
- Pricing might deter new or undecided players.
- Some story elements lack narrative depth.
System Requirements
Minimum:
- OS: Windows 10 64-bit
- Processor: Intel Core i5-2400 / AMD CPU with 4 physical cores
- Memory: 8 GB RAM
- Graphics: NVIDIA GTX 670 2GB / AMD Radeon R9 280
- DirectX: Version 11
- Storage: 50 GB available space
Recommended:
- OS: Windows 10 64-bit
- Processor: Intel Core i7-2600K / AMD Ryzen 5 1400
- Memory: 16 GB RAM
- Graphics: NVIDIA GTX 970 / AMD Radeon R9 390X
- DirectX: Version 12
- Storage: 50 GB available space
Our Rating
- Gameplay: 9/10
The addition of mounts, artifact gear, and revamped systems breathes new life into New World. - Graphics: 9.5/10
Aeternum's visual appeal reaches new heights with the Elysian Wilds. - Storyline: 8.5/10
Compelling but occasionally rushed narrative moments. - Multiplayer Features: 9/10
A solid community-driven experience with excellent cooperative gameplay. - Overall: 9/10
Rise of the Angry Earth sets a new standard for New World, delivering on its promise of innovation while staying true to its MMORPG roots. For adventurers ready to embrace the untamed beauty of Aeternum once more, this expansion is a journey worth embarking on.
