Ember Sword

Ember Sword is a social sandbox MMORPG currently in its closed beta phase, meaning it is only available in early access playtests. Developed by Bright Star Studios, the game is expected to be of high quality, meeting the high standards set by their marketing and team members.

Fun fact: Joris, their Chief Development Officer, owns one of the largest Unity game asset store publishers. The game is set in Thanabus, a dynamic world full of wonder, mystery, and adventure. Players can gain titles such as Baron/Baroness or Duke by owning lands in this mythical world.

The game will eventually be accessible through any device. However, for now, you must play it through their browser after entering an access code. The hardware specifications required are minimal due to the nature of the platform on which the game is played.

Gameplay

Once the player chooses one of the four currently available regions, they begin by customizing their character, including facial and body features, as well as the character's weight and strength. After customization, the player is loaded into a friendly camp that contains several objects useful for crafting. These objects become important once the player successfully completes their first combat encounter. Currently, there is no quest or guide system to introduce the player, so the gameplay focuses on three main areas:

First, leveling up the character. The player gains experience points from combat, gathering, and crafting. Each of these activities also levels up the associated skills.

Second, upgrading equipment. Players use materials like bones from initial monsters to craft tools such as pickaxes for harvesting. They also upgrade their sword and shield, using copper for levels 1-10, iron for levels 11-20, and so on. Upgrading gathering tools increases the chance of doubling the rewards from gathering.

Lastly, engaging in PvP in the battle arena. Several areas on the map allow for PvP actions, making it important to be of a high level. Since equipment is the same for every player, combat at higher levels is skill-based.

Review

Ember Sword has successfully created a title that should be playable on any platform. However, when it comes to creating a fun MMORPG, the team still has a long path ahead. The graphics resemble those found in old-school Runescape, Minecraft, or Roblox, appealing to players who enjoy those styles. However, given the advanced graphics in most modern titles, Ember Sword's visuals may not attract players expecting breathtaking environments.

In terms of sound design, the sound effects of attacks and being hit are well made. However, the background soundtrack, which resembles standing in nature, feels too calming and doesn't enhance the player's excitement. The gameplay can be confusing for new players. Spawning with only one ability, players may encounter level 5 monsters right outside the initial spawn point, leading to a quick defeat. The game lacks a set questing system, requiring players to figure out what to do over time. While the combat mechanics are well made, they lack some visual effects that would make the experience more immersive.

Overall, I would rate Ember Sword a 4 out of 10. Despite setting out to be a sandbox MMORPG, it is missing crucial elements such as an initial tutorial to help players get accustomed to the game. Additionally, improvements in graphics and sound design are needed to meet modern gamers' expectations. However, since the game is still in early beta, many updates are expected before its full release, and it has built a decent foundation for the future.