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New World: Aeternum

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of New World: Aeternum
Item: New World: Aeternum
Author: MonsterCritic Editorial Team

2024

GenresAdventure, Action, Third Person Perspective, Open World, RPG, Multiplayer

AvailableOct 15, 2024

PlatformPlayStation 5, Xbox Series X, PC

DeveloperAmazon Games Orange County

Overview

Aeternum is separate from the original New World but also contains everything from New World and its Rise of the Angry Earth expansion, retooled for consoles, and featuring a slew of changes and additions that go beyond what you'd expect in just an update.

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Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

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Story and Narrative

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TL;DR

New World: Aeternum earns praise for its lush world-building, cinematic storytelling, and accessible narrative structure, but critics clash over its reliance on fantasy tropes, predictable plot, and underdeveloped themes—resulting in a polished yet formulaic experience that prioritizes style over substance.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

57%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

43%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the story and narrative.

The story of New World: Aeternum receives praise for its engaging narrative structure and immersive world-building, with critics highlighting its epic scope and thematic depth. Daily Star emphasizes the game’s "epic journey across the island of Aeternum" and the conflict against The Tempest, framing it as a compelling struggle between human settlements and corruption. Digital Chumps notes the "simple yet engaging structure" of the protagonist’s arc, from awakening in a mysterious land to gaining power and confronting evil entities, which suggests accessibility and clarity. TheSixthAxis commends the fantasy realm’s setting during the Age of Exploration, describing the growing corruption and dark forces as a strong foundation for storytelling, while MMORPG.com applauds the "renewed focus on storytelling" through cinematic elements and character voiceovers, which elevate the narrative experience compared to the initial launch. GamersRD also acknowledges the world-building through documents, missions, and NPC interactions, arguing that these elements "compensate for the predictable plot," indicating that the game’s environmental and contextual storytelling is a notable strength. However, several critics express concerns about the story’s lack of originality and depth, calling it formulaic or underdeveloped. GamingBolt directly criticizes the narrative as "streamlined but lacks depth" and "dull and trope-heavy," suggesting it relies on familiar fantasy clichés without substantial innovation. GamersRD echoes this, labeling the plot "predictable," which implies a reliance on conventional storytelling mechanics. PC Games points to visual shortcomings, noting that while the new intro sequence showcases "beautiful environments," the "NPC models are not visually appealing for prolonged viewing," potentially detracting from immersion. These critiques highlight a tension between the game’s ambitious setting and its execution, with some reviewers feeling that the narrative fails to fully capitalize on its potential, instead opting for a more generic approach that prioritizes style over substance. Overall, the critical reception of New World: Aeternum’s story is mixed, with a clear divide between those who appreciate its polished presentation and world-building and others who find it unoriginal or shallow. While TheSixthAxis and MMORPG.com praise the enhanced storytelling and cinematic elements, GamingBolt and GamersRD emphasize its reliance on tropes and lack of depth. The game’s narrative seems to strike a balance between accessibility and ambition, offering a visually rich and structurally coherent experience that appeals to fans of traditional fantasy but falls short for those seeking groundbreaking originality. Critics like Daily Star and Digital Chumps highlight its engaging core, but the recurring complaints about predictability and underdeveloped themes suggest that the story, while functional, remains a secondary focus to the game’s broader mechanics and exploration. TheSixthAxis’ mention of "improved storytelling" and PC Games’ acknowledgment of the "context for the game" indicate progress, yet the consensus leans toward a narrative that is competent but not exceptional.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

New World: Aeternum delivers a hard-hitting, immersive MMORPG with dynamic combat, class diversity, and rich exploration, but its Archetypes system and underdeveloped end-game content are minor blemishes in an otherwise stellar, console-optimized experience.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

78%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

22%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the gameplay mechanics.

The gameplay of New World: Aeternum has been widely praised by critics, with many highlighting its engaging and well-rounded mechanics. Daily Star and Digital Chumps both emphasize the satisfaction of combat, noting that it involves leveling up skills, weapons, and gear, with upgradable special moves adding depth. GamersRD praises the dynamic combat system, which is well-adapted for console play, and the variety of classes and weapon specializations. GamingBolt and TheSixthAxis commend the game’s focus on exploration, crafting, and non-combat progression, with the latter pointing to a streamlined character build system and flexible playstyles. Additionally, Shacknews appreciates the classless character building and the inclusion of 10-player raids and large PvP zones, which contribute to a diverse and engaging gameplay experience. Overall, the consensus among most reviewers is that the game offers a rewarding and immersive MMORPG experience with a strong emphasis on progression and variety. Despite the positive reception, some critics point out notable drawbacks in the gameplay. MMORPG.com notes that while the questing structure has been improved, the Archetypes system may limit player experimentation with weapon choices, which could be a downside for those seeking more freedom. Movies Games and Tech mentions that the combat is numbers-based, which might not appeal to fans of more skill-based or punishing gameplay styles like those found in Souls-like games. Meanwhile, PC Games criticizes the lack of content in the end-game and issues with player retention, suggesting that the game may struggle to maintain long-term engagement. These concerns, while not overwhelming, indicate that the gameplay, while strong, may not fully satisfy all player expectations, particularly those looking for deeper customization or more substantial post-game content. In conclusion, the majority of critics view the gameplay of New World: Aeternum as very good, with a strong focus on combat, progression, and variety across different playstyles. While some issues like limited weapon experimentation and end-game content are mentioned, these are seen as minor compared to the overall positive experience. TheSixthAxis and GamersRD, in particular, highlight the game’s strengths in combat and class diversity, reinforcing the idea that New World: Aeternum delivers a solid and enjoyable MMORPG experience, especially on consoles. The overall sentiment leans toward favorability, with many reviewers recommending the game for its engaging mechanics and well-balanced approach to action and RPG elements.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

New World: Aeternum dazzles with lush, immersive visuals and vibrant biomes, but is plagued by inconsistent character models, technical flaws, and underwhelming open-world design. A visually ambitious mix of beauty and flaws.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

25%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

75%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the graphics and visual design.

The reviews of New World: Aeternum highlight several positive aspects of its graphics and visual design, with many critics praising its vibrant and immersive world. TheSixthAxis commends the "stunning natural beauty" and "diverse biomes," emphasizing the detailed environments and exotic creatures that enhance the game’s atmosphere. Movies Games and Tech lauds the "phenomenal" graphics, noting smooth character animations and a visually appealing world, while GamersRD draws a favorable comparison to Kingdoms of Amalur: Reckoning, calling the visuals "decent" and appreciating the 4K graphical mode. PC Games acknowledges the "beautiful environments" and "impressive lighting effects" in the game’s intro, though it points out a decline in in-game quality. These comments suggest that the game’s art direction and environmental design are strong, creating a visually engaging experience that resonates with players, even if it doesn’t always meet the highest technical standards. However, several critics note significant shortcomings in the visual presentation. Digital Chumps points out that while the graphics are "premium," some enemies suffer from "lack[ing] detailed character modeling," and MMORPG.com highlights "inconsistency in visual quality," particularly with character models that "may not always look great in motion." GamersRD criticizes the "occasional object popping" and "dark" areas, which can detract from immersion, while Shacknews finds the "plain and uninteresting" spaces between towns underwhelming. PC Games also notes a "noticeable drop in quality" in the in-game visuals compared to the intro, suggesting technical limitations or optimization issues. These critiques point to a mix of visual polish and technical flaws, with some elements—like character design and open-world variety—falling short of expectations despite the game’s ambitious art style. Overall, the consensus among critics is that New World: Aeternum offers a visually appealing and immersive experience, but with notable trade-offs. While TheSixthAxis and Movies Games and Tech celebrate its environmental artistry and smooth animations, others like Digital Chumps and MMORPG.com point to inconsistencies in character models and technical performance. GamersRD and Shacknews highlight the game’s strengths in specific areas, such as 4K mode and colonial aesthetics, but also its weaknesses in open-world design and lighting. The reviews suggest that the game’s visuals are a mixed bag—showcasing creativity and effort in world-building, but struggling with technical execution and detail in certain aspects. This duality indicates that while Aeternum has potential, it requires further refinement to fully realize its visual ambitions.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

Analysis Unavailable

Summary unavailable

TL;DR

music and sound design

Description unavailable

Voice Acting

Analysis Unavailable

Summary unavailable

TL;DR

voice acting

Description unavailable

Technical Performance

Analysis Unavailable

Summary unavailable

TL;DR

technical performance

Description unavailable

Replay Value

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TL;DR

Hard-hitting New World: Aeternum boasts high replay value with diverse playstyles, solo-friendly mechanics, and fresh content, but its repetitive endgame and lack of long-term incentives risk leaving players frustrated. While variety keeps it engaging, sustainability hinges on updates to fix grinding fatigue and depth.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

56%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

33%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

11%

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the replay value.

The majority of reviewers highlight New World: Aeternum as a game with strong replay value due to its diverse range of activities and systems. Daily Star emphasizes the variety of content, including exploration, fishing, settlement-building, rival raids, and PvPvE zones like Arenas, Outpost Rush, and Territory Wars, which cater to different playstyles and keep the experience dynamic. Similarly, TheSixthAxis praises the game’s flexibility through multiple playstyles, PvP options, crafting mechanics, and exploration of unique biomes, suggesting that players can engage with it in various ways. Digital Chumps and GamersRD also note the inclusion of 3v3 Arenas, Expeditions, and new classes, with the latter pointing to the potential for ongoing support and new missions as a long-term draw. MMORPG.com and Movies Games and Tech further reinforce this by expressing enthusiasm for revisiting the game, particularly with its new content and casual-friendly solo play, which reduces the pressure of traditional MMOs. These reviews collectively paint a picture of a game that offers substantial variety and depth to encourage repeated engagement. However, some critics express reservations about the game’s replay value, particularly in its endgame and long-term sustainability. GamingBolt acknowledges the presence of solo and group activities but warns that the endgame content may not satisfy all players, hinting at a possible lack of longevity. PC Games and Shacknews are more critical, with PC Games stating the game struggles to retain players due to limited endgame appeal, and Shacknews noting that while the content is challenging, the lack of motivation to grind diminishes its replayability. These concerns suggest that while the game’s initial variety is commendable, its ability to maintain player interest over time may depend on factors like post-launch updates, community engagement, or the depth of its endgame mechanics, which some feel are underdeveloped or repetitive. Overall, the consensus among critics is mixed but leans toward the game having moderate to high replay value for players who enjoy its core activities and systems. Positive reviews from Daily Star, TheSixthAxis, and MMORPG.com emphasize the game’s flexibility, new content potential, and accessibility, which make it appealing for casual and varied playstyles. However, the critiques from PC Games and Shacknews highlight a significant gap in sustained engagement, particularly for those seeking deeper endgame challenges. While the game’s foundation of exploration, crafting, and PvP is robust, its long-term appeal may hinge on how effectively it addresses these shortcomings through updates or expansions. TheSixthAxis and Digital Chumps’ focus on different playstyles and additional modes suggests that New World: Aeternum could retain players through its diversity, but the lack of compelling endgame content, as noted by GamingBolt and PC Games, remains a critical barrier for some.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

50%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

49%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing all available reviews that scored and critiqued the game.

The overall reception of New World: Aeternum is largely positive, with critics highlighting its accessibility, engaging gameplay, and immersive world-building. Daily Star praises the game as “highly approachable, massive, and welcoming to both new players and MMO experts,” emphasizing its fun combat and extensive world. TheSixthAxis similarly commends its “compelling MMORPG experience,” noting “engaging gameplay, immersive visuals, and rich storytelling.” Digital Chumps and GamersRD also appreciate its solid hack-and-slash mechanics and solo-friendly design, with the latter highlighting “new classes, well-adapted controls, and a variety of activities.” MMORPG.com and Movies Games and Tech further reinforce this sentiment, calling it a “great addition to the genre” and a “worthwhile choice for a fresh MMO adventure.” These reviews collectively underscore the game’s strengths in accessibility, variety, and technical polish, positioning it as a strong entry in the MMORPG space. However, several critics point to notable shortcomings that temper the enthusiasm. GamingBolt criticizes the “lackluster story and endgame content,” while PC Games notes persistent issues with “player retention and content depth.” Shacknews adds that the game “shies away from MMO elements,” offering “enjoyable short bursts of gameplay” but lacking the long-term engagement expected of the genre. GamersRD also mentions the title is “not groundbreaking” and requires “further polishing,” suggesting it meets expectations but falls short of innovation. These critiques highlight concerns about narrative depth, replayability, and the balance between solo and multiplayer experiences, which some feel hold the game back from achieving greater acclaim. Despite these criticisms, the overall consensus leans toward a favorable verdict, with most reviewers acknowledging New World: Aeternum as a solid, enjoyable MMORPG that delivers on its promises. While not without flaws, the game’s strengths in exploration, combat, and accessibility—as noted by Daily Star, TheSixthAxis, and MMORPG.com—make it a worthwhile investment for fans of the genre. The mixed feedback reflects a title that is competent and polished but not revolutionary, appealing to casual and dedicated players alike. Critics like GamersRD and Shacknews suggest it’s a “decent title” that improves on its predecessor but still has room to grow, while others, such as Digital Chumps and Movies Games and Tech, view it as a compelling addition to the MMO landscape. Ultimately, the reviews paint a picture of a game that is enjoyable and well-crafted, even if it doesn’t fully redefine the genre.

TL;DR

New World: Aeternum is a solid, accessible MMORPG praised for combat, world-building, and solo-friendly design, but plagued by weak storytelling, shallow endgame, and missed MMO potential—enjoyable yet unoriginal, balancing polish with missed innovation.

MONSTER

Reviews

71 reviews found

Digital Chumps

PlayStation 5

Oct 15, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

New World: Aeternum is described as a rich MMORPG experience with a solid hack-and-slash backbone, appealing to a general RPG audience seeking a fun gaming experience.

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Movies Games and Tech

Xbox Series X

Dec 10, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The reviewer considers New World: Aeternum a great addition to the genre, recommending it for those looking to immerse themselves in a vast world filled with quests and challenges.

TheSixthAxis

PlayStation 5

Nov 19, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

New World: Aeternum delivers a compelling MMORPG experience with engaging gameplay, immersive visuals, and rich storytelling, making it a worthwhile choice for players looking for a fresh MMO adventure.

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Daily Star

PlayStation 5

Oct 30, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

The game is highly approachable, massive, and welcoming to both new players and MMO experts, with fun combat and extensive world-building, making it well worth a look.

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MMORPG.com

Xbox Series X

Nov 13, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Overall, New World: Aeternum shows marked improvements in storytelling and gameplay, making it a more engaging experience than its predecessor.

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GamersRD

PlayStation 5

Oct 14, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

New World: Aeternum on consoles is a decent title that caters to solo players with a MMORPG skin. It introduces new classes, well-adapted controls, and a variety of activities. While not groundbreaking, it delivers on its promises without major ambitions. The game could benefit from further polishing.

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GamingBolt

PlayStation 5

Oct 22, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

New World: Aeternum is praised for its exploration, crafting, and combat systems, but criticized for its lackluster story and endgame content.

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Shacknews

Oct 30, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

New World: Aeternum is described as a decent online game that has improved over the years, offering enjoyable short bursts of gameplay but shying away from MMO elements.

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PC Games

Nov 18, 2024

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

New World: Aeternum is seen as an attempt to revitalize the game with new content and changes, but it still faces challenges in player retention and content depth.

100

Cinelinx

Oct 21, 2024

In a landscape filled with numerous MMOs, Amazon Games has transformed their once PC-exclusive title, Aeternum, into a new exciting experience for console players as well, rebranding it as “New World Aeternum.” This revamped version boasts an eye-catching new design, fresh content, and an array of new character classes that promise to enrich gameplay. New World: Aeternum Release Date: October 15th Genre: ARPG/MMO Platforms: PS5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC But the question remains: does this MMO have what it takes to rise above the fierce competition in the market? Can New World Aeternum fulfill the long-awaited desires of console gamers seeking an immersive online RPG experience? Discover the answers in this engaging and unconventional video review, where we dive deep into the game’s features and what it has to offer. (GAME INFO)New World: Aeternum is a thrilling action RPG experience for console and PC players set on the supernatural island of Aeternum.

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