In Anthem , BioWare presented their plans on how they want to improve the game in the coming weeks. Instead of new features, they are addressing persistent issues with loot and bugs. A test server is expected to be introduced.
Last week, BioWare explained in a post (via reddit), how the upcoming period for Anthem is supposed to unfold and what BioWare’s main focus is.
The reporting has mainly focused on the negatives: Numerous features planned for April will not appear on schedule. Also, the critical feature Cataclysm, scheduled for May, seems to be at risk.
But what is BioWare doing instead? What does BioWare prioritize?
Test server coming: As a first measure, BioWare plans to introduce a test server where players can test new content before it goes live.
The server is called PFE (Player Feedback Environment). Through the server, players will have the opportunity to test new content and features and then inform BioWare about what is enjoyable and what is not.
The test server for Anthem is initially planned only for PC. This suggests that there may be a chance to expand it to PS4 and Xbox One in the long term.
Changing communication: BioWare states that they do not want to talk about things too early anymore.
There are too many factors that could lead to plans being changed again, such as bugs, stability issues, player feedback, or difficulties with a feature.
Therefore, BioWare wants to talk about things only when they are almost finished.
BioWare’s focus: Currently, BioWare believes it is best to focus on four things:
- Fixing bugs
- Increasing stability
- Improving the flow of the game
- And improving the loot in the endgame of Anthem and the progression systems
They are currently working on these aspects and have therefore decided to postpone the features. As soon as they have more information, they want to share it.
Clear parallels to The Division 2
What’s behind it: BioWare is essentially doing the same as Massive did with The Division 2. A planned content update for The Division 2 was also postponed, a test server was set up, and Massive aims to address the nagging issues in a large patch and change half of the game.
However, the situation differs in two important aspects:
- The Division 2 had a “strong campaign” and a functioning loot system
- Additionally, the test server for The Division 2 is already live, and there is a rough timeline for what to expect next and a fairly detailed plan for how The Division 2 will change
Although Anthem was released a month before The Division 2, it is currently far behind. One of the major criticisms following BioWare’s plan presentation is the absence of a timeline indicating when progress should come.
However, BioWare apparently wants to avoid mentioning such a timeline because they fear they might have to change plans and disappoint players as a result.
