Amazon Games’ New World Gold has captured the attention of mmoexp enthusiasts since its launch in September 2021. Set in the mysterious world of Aeternum, the game offers a unique blend of exploration, crafting, and intense PvP battles. However, despite its many strengths, one glaring oversight has plagued the gaming experience for many players: the lack of cross-progression.
Understanding Cross-Progression
Before delving into the specifics of New World, it’s essential to understand what cross-progression means. Cross-progression allows players to maintain their game progress across different platforms or devices. For instance, if a player begins their journey on a PC and later decides to switch to a console or another PC, they would ideally want to carry over their character, items, achievements, and in-game currency. This feature has become increasingly common in the gaming industry, with successful implementations in titles like Fortnite, Call of Duty: Warzone, and Genshin Impact. The expectation for cross-progression has risen, especially as gamers invest significant time and effort into their characters.
The Current State of New World
As of now, New World operates exclusively on PC. However, there have been whispers and hopes from the community about a potential console version in the future. Unfortunately, the game's current design does not support cross-progression, which has left many players frustrated. Those who wish to switch devices or play with friends who may choose to play on different systems find themselves starting from scratch.
A Frustrating Experience for Players
Time Investment: mmoexp demand a considerable time investment to develop characters and gather resources. For many players, the idea of having to redo all the work they have put into their character due to the absence of cross-progression feels disheartening. With New World’s vast world, quests, and character customization options, losing progress can be particularly frustrating.
Community Fragmentation: In today’s gaming environment, friends often play on different systems. Without cross-progression, players find it hard to join their friends who may have different gaming preferences or hardware. This fragmentation discourages community interaction and can even lead to players abandoning their characters altogether.
Competitive Disadvantages: For those who play competitively, the inability to access their main character or achievements on another platform can lead to a sense of disadvantage. Players who have dedicated themselves to honing their skills and acquiring top-tier gear find themselves forced to start anew, leading to frustration and disappointment.
Increased Barriers for New Players: New players entering New World may find the prospect of playing with experienced friends daunting if they cannot join them with their existing characters. This barrier can discourage new players from fully engaging with the game and may lead to decreased player retention.
The Case for Cross-Progression in New World
Given the frustrations stemming from the lack of cross-progression, it’s crucial to consider the benefits that implementing this feature could bring to New World and its community.
1. Enhanced Player Experience
The primary benefit of cross-progression is an enhanced player experience. Players would have the freedom to switch between devices without the fear of losing their hard-earned progress. This flexibility could lead to a more enjoyable gaming experience as players can engage with the game at their convenience, whether at home on their PC or on the go with a console.
2. Strengthened Community Ties
Cross-progression fosters a more unified community. Friends could easily collaborate, regardless of their gaming platform, which could result in a more vibrant and active player base. The ability to play with friends without worrying about compatibility or starting over would encourage more players to join and engage in the game.
3. Competitive Edge
Incorporating cross-progression would level the playing field for all players. Competitive gamers could continue refining their skills on any device without the fear of losing their characters or rankings. This aspect is particularly vital in an mmoexp where player skill, gear, and experience are essential to success.
4. Increased Player Retention
One of the most significant issues that mmoexp face is player retention. Players often leave when they feel that their time invested is not worth it. By allowing cross-progression, New World could keep players engaged for longer periods, as they would have the assurance that their efforts would not be in vain if they decided to switch platforms or devices.
Amazon’s Opportunity
Amazon Games has an opportunity to address this issue and enhance the New World Gold coins experience. While the game has undergone various updates since its launch, the introduction of cross-progression would be a significant step forward in fostering a player-friendly environment.