INTRODUCTION
Welcome to the exciting world of Neverwinter, an immersive, free-to-play Massively Multiplayer Online Role-Playing Game (MMORPG) based on the renowned Dungeons and Dragons fantasy franchise. Have you always been a fan of epic quests, perilous dungeons, and legendary adventurers? Then this guide is perfect for you – a novice’s compass leading you through the atmospheric city of Neverwinter and its perilous surroundings. Today, we’ll look at what Neverwinter entails, how to start playing, what you need, some handy beginner tips, and a list of helpful resources. Let’s dive in!
WHAT IS NEVERWINTER?
Neverwinter is a fully-realized MMORPG, developed by Cryptic Studios and released by Perfect World Entertainment, set in the grand universe of Dungeons and Dragons. The game takes place in and around the city of Neverwinter, a major location in the Forgotten Realms campaign setting. Players can create characters from a variety of classes and races, each with their unique skills and abilities, and set out on unforgettable adventures alongside other players online. Compared to games like World of Warcraft, Neverwinter offers a much more story-driven experience, infused with intense player-vs-environment and player-vs-player combat.
HOW IT WORKS/HOW TO GET STARTED
Getting started with Neverwinter is relatively straightforward. You begin by choosing and customizing your character from several races and classes, such as warriors, rogues, or magic users. Character creation also involves selecting your character’s background, deity, and other role-playing aspects, which can influence your gameplay.
As you explore the world, you’ll encounter quests to undertake, enemies to defeat, and dungeons to explore. Combat in Neverwinter uses an action-based real-time system, so you’ll be actively dodging enemy attacks, aiming your abilities, and strategically using your skills. Each character class has unique abilities, which you’ll unlock and improve as you gain experience and level up throughout the game.
WHAT YOU NEED TO PLAY
As a free-to-play game, all you need to start playing Neverwinter is a decent internet connection and a capable PC, Xbox One, or PlayStation 4. There’s no starter box or dice involved – just download the game client from the official website, PlayStation Store, or Xbox Store and you’re set to start your adventure. While playing is free, there are optional purchases available in-game, offering various boosts, aesthetic changes, and quality of life improvements.
TIPS FOR ABSOLUTE BEGINNERS
1. START WITH THE TUTORIAL: Neverwinter’s tutorial will introduce you to the game’s basic mechanics and concepts. Don’t skip it.
2. EXPERIMENT WITH DIFFERENT CLASSES: Each class has a unique play style. Try a few before settling on your favorite.
3. LEARN TO DODGE: In combat, learning to effectively dodge enemy attacks is crucial.
4. SAVE YOUR ASTRAL DIAMONDS: The premium currency is useful for buying high-level gear and items, so avoid spending it early.
5. GROUP UP: Many of Neverwinter’s dungeons and quests are best tackled with a group. Making friends and forming a party can make your adventures much easier and more fun.
HELPFUL RESOURCES
For beginners looking to dive deeper into the game, sites like the subreddit r/Neverwinter, official Neverwinter forums, and MMORPG.com Neverwinter section are invaluable sources of information. Novice-friendly YouTube channels like Nova, Garlaanx, and The NickFloShow are also well worth checking out for detailed guides and tips.
GLOSSARY: COMMON TERMS EXPLAINED
1. ASTRAL DIAMONDS: The premium currency in the game, used to buy higher-level items.
2. DPS: An abbreviation for Damage Per Second. A measurement of how much damage a character can deal in combat.
3. TANK: A character built to absorb damage and protect more vulnerable party members in combat.
4. HEALER: A character that specializes in healing party members’ health.
5. DPS, TANK, HEALER: These terms represent the three basic roles a player can perform in a party.
NEXT STEPS: WHERE TO GO FROM HERE
Now you’re equipped with a basic understanding of Neverwinter, your next steps should involve downloading the game, creating your character, and just begin playing! The community is friendly and ready to aid beginners. Remember, the world of Neverwinter is vast and full of secrets. So take your time, explore at your own pace, and most importantly, have fun! And don’t be shy – drop into the communities we recommended earlier to get guidance, tips, and to connect with fellow adventurers. Welcome to your next big adventure in Neverwinter!
