In March, this big event is supposed to happen in Anthem, which according to BioWare can change the entire world: a Cataclysm. Here, the future of Anthem is defined, thinks our author Leya.
In the current livestream BioWare talked about the future of Anthem. My ears particularly perked up when the developers emphasized how Anthem is technically built. Their game is designed so that it is easy for developers to change components in the world.
For months now, BioWare has hinted that Anthem will truly begin after the release regarding the development of the world and its story.
Anthem is supposed to work through story events like a Netflix series, which players can return to repeatedly to find out what happens next. I am quite curious about what this concretely means for Anthem.
Roadmap for March shows Cataclysm
What is a Cataclysm? These are massive natural forces that arise from the Anthem of Creation. Often a gigantic storm precedes them, indicated in the sky. Cataclysms create new life forms, can shatter the ground, or even reverse the flow of rivers.
Anthem’s roadmap for March has already been released. It is divided into several sections, with the highlight being the Cataclysm. The roadmap states: “The ongoing story of Anthem begins.”
When will the Cataclysm come? The exact timing is not revealed in the roadmap. The big highlight may also come after March. However, from March we can expect events that will prepare for the Cataclysm.
What a Cataclysm looks like in detail we do not know yet. BioWare is still silent about what a Cataclysm and the story events will mean for the game. It is always said that it will be something massive.
We only know that the various acts are meant to prepare for the Cataclysm. Players are supposed to discover clues and solve puzzles about the changes in the world. The Cataclysm is somewhat like the big bang that dissolves everything.
It is too early for a judgment on Anthem
Until I have not seen the events in March, I hesitate to assess Anthem’s longevity.
The story is supposed to begin now: BioWare has repeatedly emphasized that Anthem is designed to provide bite-sized gameplay,to prevent content drought .
The story of Anthem is already being harshly criticized, even though according to the developers, it is actually just beginning now. They have prepared the story for years. New missions, world events, or storylines can be added to Anthem at any time.
The first Cataclysm will be groundbreaking: Since BioWare keeps talking about how something “big” is coming our way, I will now patiently wait and observe March.
I wonder if the developers are overstating things here, or if they manage to actually bring story events into the game that generate curiosity and excitement.
This is supposed to be a central core of Anthem: A world that continuously expands, changes, and brings new experiences.
Fortnite as a Role Model: In Fortnite: Battle Royale, this style of storytelling works excellently. Recently, the map of Fortnite changed again, and rifts appeared everywhere. Players follow this live, the media reports on the crazy events, creating a hype.
I can imagine something like this in the world of Anthem, which is already full of mystical caves and secrets.
The Division 2 has a release in March
Players are doubting between The Division 2 and Anthem: March will also be significant for Anthem, as The Division 2 will have its release here.
Both games feature strong elements of a loot shooter and are therefore being compared. Some players are wondering which of the two games they want to play longer.
Therefore, it is even more important for Anthem to score with its event approach in March. Here, BioWare has a chance to make Anthem relevant in the media, even with the release of The Division 2, and attract some attention.
What ideally happens for Anthem?
This is the ideal scenario: BioWare will deliver what they have been promising for months. Anthem has a long and exciting story, with great events. The media reports on the latest happenings, such as about the little clown detective Hoppel or the new activities of the Dominion.
The players have fun with the content bites and look forward to new strongholds, missions, and stories. Players temporarily overlook technical issues.
This is the worst case: BioWare cannot meet expectations. The events bring little new to the game and are boring for players. The Titan shown in the demo did not go over so well.
Although BioWare noted here that this was just a teaser. The added content leads to nasty bugs that need to be fixed repeatedly, causing frustration. Anthem goes under and only provided temporary entertainment.
This is the middle ground: The events are not of outstanding nature but keep players engaged. A core group of players forms, who support and accompany Anthem for years.
From here, BioWare can build and improve Anthem in the nature of a live-service game and gradually win over players.
What do you say? Is March as significant for Anthem as I perceive it?
Our author Schuhmann describes here why he is currently enjoying Anthem. He is also curious whether Anthem will continue to provide enjoyment for him in the long term:
