Amazon Games’ first MMO, New World, has already taken our world by storm. Launch day saw a massive 700,000 people trying to cram into the servers, and the game is still going strong, with thousands of users logging on each day to explore the fantastical world of Aeternum.
Now that we’ve had a chance to get acquainted with New World, we know that one of the more unique elements of the game is that the MMO staple of class systems has been done away with. Instead, characters are allowed to grow in a more organic fashion, with players choosing their strengths and quirks using a complex skill tree design.
One of the appeals of an MMO is the social aspect, however, so don’t expect to go full lone-ranger when you enter New World for the first time. After a certain point, you’ll be expected to join up with one of three factions – the Covenant, the Syndicate, or the Marauders. Each faction has its own deep-rooted values, along with a long-term goal to secure the future of Aeternum in their favour. Deciding where your loyalties lie means you will be a part of the struggle, in a mutually beneficial arrangement that will aid you in the development of your own story.
Choosing between these factions can be a difficult decision, and you’ll want to do your homework given that you’ll be sworn to loyalty for at least 120 days. So what do these three groups want from their struggle, and what are they willing to do to get there? We’ve boiled each faction down to their bare bones, exposing their motivations, beliefs, and methodologies to help you make the best decision.
The Covenant
As the name suggests, this faction relies on spiritual guidance to shape their goals – believing in the redemption of Aeternum through the exorcism of an ancient evil. Acolytes of this close-knit group give themselves up as divinely-instructed hands to perform the dirty work of cleansing the island of undead heretics and corrupted lifeforms. These religious fanatics will stop at nothing to purify the land they believe can once again be redeemed, working to restore Aeternum to its natural state of beauty and grace.
If you’re usually more of a paladin or cleric-type character, the Covenant may be your best pick. They will train you in defensive magic and adorn you with unique equipment for every stage of your journey. Reaching the top rank of Adjudicator has considerable perks but getting on the wrong side of the Covenant’s holy wrath may be ill-advised.
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The Syndicate
A secretive guild with a murky past, the Syndicate are loyal only to knowledge and scientific discovery, even if that means unearthing that which was meant to be forgotten. They believe that the redemption of Aeternum lies in a new enlightened age, something only they can usher in. Joining this cultish society requires you to have your wits about you at all times, and to be dedicated to the pursuit of forbidden knowledge in order to progress through the shrouded ranks of the Syndicate. Stick to the shadows, use stealth and cunning, and learn how to cultivate an intellect as sharp as a blade. Having Syndicate contacts will prove invaluable when the new age dawns.
For those who tend to prefer being a mage or assassin, the Syndicate will allow you to exercise your sneakiest tendencies. Although you’ll still come up against the odd brute-force victory, your power will lie primarily in your wits. Gaining this information, however, may lead you down a dark path that no one was meant to tread.
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The Marauders
If all that sounds a little considered and slow, the Marauders are probably for you. A militaristic faction devoted to strength, discipline, and order, they believe that a free Aeternum must be fought for. Under their rule, only the strongest survive, as they strive to build a system that rewards might above all else. The Marauders believe their people would thrive if this society was implemented across all of Aeternum, given they prove themselves worthy, and assuming there is anything left once they have completed their crusade.
Led by a series of Commanders, the Marauders fit a more traditional soldier-type build, with the goal of a free society in their sight. Members of this faction must be ready to wield a weapon at a moment’s notice, to fight only for the honor and glory of Aeternum, and to follow orders to the very end. Loyal and well-trained soldiers will be rewarded with positions of authority and influence, along with some impressive weaponry and gear that marks them out amongst a crowd as someone not to be messed with.
Choose your faction wisely in New World – it pays to be on the winning side.
