Neverwinter

Developer: Cryptic Studios
Release: Dec 5th 2013
Platforms:
Action
Adventure
Massively Multiplayer
RPG
Free To Play
Addictive
Dynamic Combat
Rich Lore
Pay To Win
Optimization
Neverwinter Poster

" Dynamic action MMORPG with rich D&D lore and fluid combat but strong pay-to-win elements "

Neverwinter Review

Neverwinter is a MMORPG set in the Forgotten Realms universe, offering dynamic combat and an engaging Dungeons & Dragons-inspired setting. Players appreciate the presence of iconic characters like Drizzt Do'Urden and the involvement of author R.A. Salvatore in quest writing. The game features a solid storyline and a variety of challenging endgame dungeons, with campaigns providing character progression through boons. Combat is praised for its fluidity and active dodging mechanics, making gameplay exciting and fast-paced. The game receives frequent updates, adding new content and fixing bugs, which keeps the experience fresh for dedicated players.

However, the game struggles with a strong pay-to-win model, especially in PvP and endgame gear acquisition, requiring significant financial investment or grinding to remain competitive. Currency management is challenging for new players, and outdated graphics and optimization issues persist. Server latency, region restrictions, and technical problems also affect player experience. Despite these flaws, Neverwinter remains a popular free-to-play MMORPG with a loyal community and deep gameplay for those willing to invest time or money.

Highlights

Players praise Neverwinter's dynamic and fluid combat system, which emphasizes dodging and active engagement. The game's setting in the Forgotten Realms universe, with involvement from R.A. Salvatore, enriches the storyline and quests. The endgame content, including challenging dungeons and boss fights, is well-regarded. Music and atmosphere complement the gameplay, and frequent updates add new content and fix bugs. The game offers a good solo and group experience, with a friendly community and a variety of character development options through traits and boons.

Criticisms

Common criticisms focus on the game's pay-to-win nature, particularly in PvP and endgame progression, where spending large sums or extensive grinding is often necessary. Currency acquisition is slow and frustrating for new players. Graphics are considered outdated, and optimization issues cause performance problems, including crashes and high latency, especially for European players. The removal of the Foundry quest system disappointed many, and the game's UI and controls can be confusing. Region locks prevent access for some players. Overall, the game suffers from aggressive monetization and technical shortcomings.

Pros

  • Dynamic and fluid combat mechanics keep gameplay engaging and rewarding.
  • Rich setting in the Forgotten Realms with iconic D&D characters and lore.
  • Challenging endgame dungeons and boss fights provide satisfying content.
  • Frequent updates add new content and fix bugs regularly.
  • Good solo and group play options with a friendly community.
  • Character development through traits and boons offers depth.
  • Music and atmosphere enhance immersion without being intrusive.

Cons

  • Strong pay-to-win elements ruin PvP and endgame competitiveness.
  • Currency and resource grinding is tedious and time-consuming.
  • Outdated graphics and poor optimization cause performance issues.
  • Frequent crashes and technical bugs frustrate many players.
  • Region restrictions block access for legitimate players in Asia.
  • Removal of user-generated Foundry quests disappointed the community.
  • Confusing UI and control bindings hinder new player experience.

Rating Criteria

Story
Difficulty
Graphics
Duration
Stability
Worth the Price
Capsule image

Neverwinter is a free, action MMORPG based on the acclaimed Dungeons & Dragons fantasy roleplaying game. Epic stories, action combat and classic roleplaying await those heroes courageous enough to enter the fantastic world of Neverwinter!

Release Date Dec 5th 2013
Publisher Arc Games
Developer Cryptic Studios
Platforms

User Reviews

Mostly Positive (108)
71% Positive 29% Negative

Online Reviews

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Metacritic
74