Does one always have to smash everything in an MMORPG? Wander from the eponymous developer wants to show that there is another way and focuses on relaxed exploration tours in fantastic graphics.
Wander begins mysteriously, as you awaken in a forest, not knowing what is going on. You are also bodiless and initially take the form of a tree. Of course, it would be rather boring to just stand still without being able to move. Therefore, the tree is able to walk. In the form of this so-called “Oren”, you begin to explore the landscape.
Shape-shifter
Along the way, you meet other players and can interact with them. The type of interaction depends on the form each player has taken. This also means that there are several shapes, including those of a griffin, a fish, and a fast-running lizard. Each form has different abilities. The griffin can fly, the fish can swim and dive. In this way, new areas of the vast game world gradually open up to you. As a fish, you explore underwater areas; as a griffin, you soar above forests and mountains, reaching otherwise inaccessible places.
During your travels, you will uncover old legends that reveal more about the game world and the different forms you can take. In this way, a comprehensive background story gradually unfolds. The world is also full of secrets waiting to be unraveled. Among them are the mysterious siren songs that echo in your ears. You use the various abilities of the forms you can take, as well as teamwork. There is neither PvP nor PvE in the game. Wander focuses on peaceful interaction, which may sound strange at first, but emphasizes the game concept. Fighting would make no sense in this MMO.
Simply Beautiful
Wander uses the CryEngine, which has been utilized in well-known games like the Crysis series or Ryse – Son of Rome. This speaks for a breathtaking visual experience. Exactly this is a major attraction of the game. Exploring the world from the perspective of different creatures, discovering ancient ruins, diving into the depths of the sea, or gliding over majestic forests creates a unique atmosphere.
You will visit places that simply invite you to linger and dream. Therefore, Wander places great importance on exploring the game world, where there is always much to discover. Weather also plays an important role. Sudden thunderstorms, for example, create not only a special atmosphere; a griffin should not fly in strong winds and rain.
Wander is set to be released for Playstation 4 either at the end of April or early May and will run at a resolution of 1080p at 30 fps. According to Steam, it will also be released for PC in April.
Andreas says: I am a bit skeptical. An MMORPG without fights? Can that be exciting? No question, Wander looks fantastic, and exploring the beautifully crafted game world in the form of different creatures with various abilities sounds relaxing to me. But I still can’t quite grasp the sense of it.
However, that doesn’t stop me from wanting to at least take a look at Wander. Because perhaps there is a gem in the game that is not immediately apparent. And a bit of relaxation alongside all the fighting against orcs or dragons is also good.
I am therefore curious about what the MMORPG has to offer, how the interaction with other players works, what forms there are, what these allow me in the game, and what secrets await to be uncovered. I hope for a positive surprise.
