Is Neverwinter worth playing in 2024?

Neverwinter is a massively multiplayer online role-playing game set in the Forgotten Realms universe of Dungeons & Dragons. Originally released for PC in 2013, it was later made accessible on Xbox in 2015 and PlayStation in 2016. The rise in popularity of Baldur’s Gate 3, which introduced numerous players to these mystical realms, ignited a yearning to explore the Forgotten Realms with fellow adventurers.

While Baldur’s Gate 3 accommodates a maximum of four players to explore these realms, Neverwinter, being an MMO, caters to those in search of larger multiplayer experiences.

Nevertheless, Neverwinter remains an unappealing choice in 2024, as it falls short of the standards set by iconic titles such as Baldur’s Gate and Icewind Dale in bringing the world of Dungeons & Dragons to video games.

The Decline of Neverwinter: Reasons to Avoid the Game in 2024

In Neverwinter, the game continuously introduces new story arcs through major updates called modules. Currently, there are 27 modules in the game, with the most recent one being Spelljammer. This new addition brings a unique sci-fi storyline centered around the Xaryxian Empire and astral seeds.

The modules also introduce players to previously unseen locations, including the fiery depths of Avernus and the frigid landscapes of Icewind Dale. In addition to these new settings, players can also earn boons that improve their characters as they progress through unique storylines.

Certain modules and regions offer captivating and engaging gameplay, while others seem hastily put together and at times unfinished. For example, the main area of Avernus may feel like a simple rehash of the Guild Stronghold Map, which could disrupt the immersion of players looking to fully immerse themselves in the various realms of the game.

The progression of characters in Neverwinter is excessively grindy, often taking several months to reach the endgame without spending money in the Zen store. This results in a pay-to-win model throughout the game, as players are able to purchase almost everything, including mounts, companions, and various services, using the Zen currency.

The recent updates to combat in the game have heavily benefited pay-to-win players, as they completely disrupt various gameplay aspects and render fully geared characters powerless. As a result, solo adventurers may find the game unplayable.

Furthermore, the combat system in this game is a notable deviation from the norm for a Dungeons & Dragons based game, as its action RPG style of fighting does not entirely fit with the game’s setting.

Despite its potential for dedicated fans, this title will not be worth playing in 2024 due to the heavily incentivized pay-to-win store and gameplay changes. These alterations undermine the value of character progression and overshadow any potential enjoyment that Dungeons & Dragons could provide.