At the Korean game fair G-Star, the MMORPG A:IR (Ascent: Infinite Realm) was showcased: initially the PvP battles and then also the PvE, which apparently serves only as a kind of large tutorial.
Since both the fair and the game A:IR were in Korean, it is currently not very easy to comprehend all the mechanics of the new PC MMORPG. But A:IR seems to focus on PvP battles. More specifically, realm-vs-realm skirmishes that take place both on the ground and in the air, where parties must achieve different objectives.
PvE serves as practice and leveling – 30 levels, 30 hours
But that doesn’t mean there is no PvE. However, it seems to serve only as a tutorial to lead players into the RvR battles. We are talking about 30 levels, which can be completed in about 30 hours.
In PvE, you explore a large and apparently beautiful game world. There you can expect plenty of fights against enemies and many quests. However, these are apparently only meant to provide known standard fare, enabling players to level up quickly and catch the game’s backstory. The focus of A:IR is not on telling varied stories.
Thus, it is not surprising that it only takes about 30 hours to reach the maximum level. The endgame consists of the PvP skirmishes. During the PvE missions, you also familiarize yourself with your hero’s skills, as each class has its own abilities that you need to master. This is done through quests and fights against numerous monsters, including mechanical wolves, which emphasize the mix of fantasy and technology in the game.
Initial reports from the battles are rather sobering. There are mentions of old MMORPG mechanics and a chaotic battle process without the dynamic elements that characterize modern MMORPGs.
The English-speaking site PC Gamer writes: It is the same MMO combat system as for ages. You press buttons, just that now you control a gigantic airship instead of a paladin.
Feedback from beta testers is very important
According to current reports, the fights are not yet very tactical. For example, the advantages and disadvantages of the terrain are not taken into account in the battle. So it currently makes no difference whether you shoot at an enemy from a height or stand right in front of him. Whether this will change is uncertain at this time.
However, the beta, which is set to start early next year, will certainly bring a lot of player feedback that the developers of A:IR should implement. Then hopefully the game will at least have English texts.
We have already reported on how the PvP works in the MMORPG A:IR.
