ArcheAge: Unchained
- October 17, 2019
- XLGAMES
- 9h median play time
Get on SteamArcheAge: Unchained is a sandpark MMORPG that offers a fresh start in a vast, open world with new economical and political systems. Players can engage in various activities such as farming, trade, and PvP combat while exploring continents and sailing the seas. This version of the game is a buy-to-play model, differing from the original ArcheAge's free-to-play model with optional patron subscriptions.
PC
Windows
Cloud
Reviews
- Unique class system with a variety of combinations
- No pay-to-win mechanics, allowing for fair competition
- Engaging crafting and farming systems that enhance gameplay
- Frequent server issues and bugs affecting gameplay
- Grind-heavy mechanics with tedious daily quests
- Limited character slots and long wait times for character deletion
- story495 mentions
- 15 % positive mentions
- 78 % neutral mentions
- 7 % negative mentions
The game's story is often described as mediocre and formulaic, with many players finding it unengaging after the initial levels. While the early quests provide a decent narrative experience, they quickly devolve into repetitive daily tasks that overshadow the story's potential. Additionally, the integration of PvP zones and bugs in quest mechanics can detract from the overall storytelling experience, leaving players feeling disconnected from the narrative.
“A very well told story.. lots of things to keep you interested.”
“The lore and storytelling is brilliant, with each race having their own different climb to level 30.”
“The questing is great, the story is rich and immerses me deep into my race.”
“The story is forgettable.”
“Story line is boring, with bad graphics only highlighting what remains left, of something that was once a game at sometime.”
“The story isn't super engaging.”
- grinding320 mentions
- 0 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 99 % negative mentions
The grinding aspect of the game is a significant point of contention among players, with many describing it as extremely tedious and time-consuming, particularly at endgame where daily quests and gear upgrades dominate gameplay. While some players appreciate the variety of activities available, such as farming and crafting, they often feel that the grind detracts from the overall enjoyment and progression, making it feel like a chore rather than a rewarding experience. Overall, the game is best suited for those who enjoy grinding and are willing to invest substantial time to keep up with more dedicated players.
“A bonus is you can level up fast, so you are not grinding excessively in the game.”
“Every single aspect of the game is behind a huge grinding wall.”
“The only way to get good gear is a tedious, agonizingly boring daily grind that takes months to upgrade to max tier; you can't craft or trade upgrade items.”
“Hit the beginning of endgame and realized the sheer amount of daily grinding I would need to do to reach some of the 'basic' long-term goals was something only masochists would enjoy.”
- gameplay304 mentions
- 27 % positive mentions
- 69 % neutral mentions
- 5 % negative mentions
The gameplay of Archeage Unchained is a mixed bag, with many players praising its innovative mechanics, fluid combat, and engaging sandbox elements, while others criticize the repetitive grind, lingering pay-to-win mechanics, and numerous bugs. Although the game offers a rich world with unique systems like farming and housing, it suffers from issues such as server instability and a lack of clear tutorials, which can detract from the overall experience. Ultimately, while some find the gameplay enjoyable and rewarding, others feel it is marred by exploitative practices and a lack of developer support.
“The gameplay is enjoyable, combat is fluid once you get a few skills, and the economy system has me really excited to get into it.”
“Great game, got me really hooked on, super nice gameplay, housing and trading system, friendly community and great graphics specially for characters and environment!”
“Probably one of the best sandbox MMOs I have ever played gameplay-wise; it's the best. Currently, it is played with what I would assume is incompetent developers that can't seem to be able to get anything working without exploits or working properly.”
“Unfortunately, this game is an MMORPG with a heavy PvP base mechanic.”
“Between the insane amounts of grind, time gating, and over simplification of game mechanics, this game just isn't worth playing anymore.”
“The underlying pay-to-win mechanics are still in place; the only thing different is that instead of buying shop items, you buy multiple accounts.”
- graphics268 mentions
- 34 % positive mentions
- 57 % neutral mentions
- 9 % negative mentions
The graphics of the game receive mixed reviews, with many praising the beautiful textures, lighting, and artistic style, particularly in character design and environmental details. However, several players criticize the graphics as outdated and riddled with bugs, noting performance issues and a lack of significant improvements despite recent updates. Overall, while some find the visuals appealing, others feel they fall short compared to modern standards in the MMO genre.
“The game itself is really nice, very amazing graphics, many things to do... there is no end of the game and that's amazing.”
“Graphics are beautiful as well.”
“Great game, got me really hooked on, super nice gameplay, housing and trading system, friendly community and great graphics specially for characters and environment!”
“I have had enough of this game, it's graphically dated. Last I checked, it's riddled with bots and alt bots everywhere spamming game coin for real cash or a leveling service for real money, and don't get me started on the devs and now Kakao (cash cow) games.”
“The graphics are very old now, and the game is not optimized for 4K or HDR support.”
“Horrible, way outdated graphics.”
- stability87 mentions
- 2 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 98 % negative mentions
The game's stability is heavily criticized, with players reporting frequent crashes, freezes, and various glitches that significantly hinder gameplay. Many users express frustration over characters getting stuck in animations and the overall buggy experience, which has led to a decline in player numbers since launch. Despite its potential and enjoyable mechanics, the persistent technical issues make it difficult for players to recommend the game.
“PvP is amazing, ocean mechanics are fun, not buggy.”
“However, the publisher plagued the game from day one with glitches, exploits, bugs, and promises they can't keep, causing a mass exodus from players since launch.”
“This game is a buggy terrible mess.”
“It's been a really long time since I've spent almost 4 hours troubleshooting a game that won't launch.”
- monetization56 mentions
- 7 % positive mentions
- 18 % neutral mentions
- 75 % negative mentions
The monetization model of the game has shifted from a one-time purchase to a monthly subscription, leading many players to label it a "cash grab" that prioritizes profit over player experience. Users express frustration over broken promises regarding the absence of microtransactions and the game's transition to a pay-to-win structure, which undermines its initial appeal. Overall, the monetization practices are criticized as greedy and exploitative, contributing to a negative perception of the game's management and community.
“A game without a subscription, that offered everything for a one-time fee, with no microtransactions.”
“The idea that you could buy the game once and keep playing it free with cosmetic microtransactions was great, in my opinion.”
“I bought this game under the assumption it was buy-to-play with no subscription nor microtransactions.”
“I don't mind a subscription style service, as I believe it is needed to maintain a solid MMO experience and stave off pay-to-win mechanics, but this has clearly been shifted to a cash grab pile of neglect and user abuse.”
“This game was sold to me as a buy upfront price and play it forever - this was clearly mentioned in their advertising.”
“Greedy monetization practices, broken promises, this game has it all.”
- optimization52 mentions
- 15 % positive mentions
- 65 % neutral mentions
- 19 % negative mentions
The game's optimization has received significant criticism, with many players reporting frequent crashes and performance issues, especially during large-scale player events. Despite the presence of an optimization mode, even high-end computers struggle to maintain smooth gameplay, leading to delays and low frame rates. Overall, the game's dated graphics and poor integration of anti-cheat systems contribute to a frustrating experience, with many users expressing hope for future improvements.
“Performance: the game runs quite well.”
“There is an optimization mode which reduces the graphical stress.”
“Also, it's decently optimized.”
“However, because of performance issues in some areas and events, only a very powerful gaming computer will be able to run on high graphics settings all the time.”
“Optimization is pretty bad here.”
“Horrible optimization and very dated graphics.”
- music44 mentions
- 27 % positive mentions
- 59 % neutral mentions
- 14 % negative mentions
The music in the game has received mixed reviews, with players appreciating the powerful orchestral soundtrack in the menu and some enjoyable in-game tracks, particularly during player-hosted concerts. However, many criticize the repetitive and low-quality background music that plays during NPC interactions and in various areas, leading to a lack of immersion. Overall, while some find the music charming and nostalgic, others feel it detracts from the gaming experience due to its monotony.
“Backed up by an amazing orchestral soundtrack, you venture forth into some stunning, colourful zones and ocean.”
“Sitting in the lobby for 25 minutes due to a bug causing me to reset, patience only grows more relaxing with the help of dabs and Archeage's beautifully crafted lobby soundtrack.”
“However, some of the music in AAU is very nice.”
“The in-game music is low quality and repetitive.”
“Every time you speak to an NPC, the same annoying background music is played, and every time you reach a new area, new background music is played but without the power or orchestral feel.”
“The worst part of the sound for longer players is the flute/lute music played by anyone using the songcraft tree, which repeats the same songs over and over.”
- humor22 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The humor in the game is derived from its chaotic player interactions and quirky mechanics, such as the amusing crime system and the absurdity of in-game chat glitches. Players find the toxic behavior of others, reminiscent of comedic gaming tropes, both frustrating and entertaining, while the game's technical issues add an unintentional layer of humor. Overall, the blend of ridiculous situations and player antics contributes to a uniquely funny experience, despite the underlying frustrations.
“Plus reading trial chat is hilarious.”
“The crime system is hilarious, especially when you are taken to court for your crimes and having everything broadcast to your faction.”
“Very good price tag for a funny MMO; it's a mess graphic-wise and the text chat breaks for no good reason, but you can have great fun both in PvP and PvE. The game is worth it just to hear people comment in the nation and jury channel.”
- emotional8 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
Players express a mix of emotions regarding the game, with some feeling anger and disappointment due to bugs and perceived value issues, while others find joy and nostalgia in the game's long-standing presence and the new business model. The emotional experience is polarized, with some players feeling a deep connection to the game despite its flaws, while others are left questioning their investment. Overall, the emotional response is complex, blending frustration with affection.
“As for ArcheAge Unchained, I am loving it. I love the new business model where you only pay for cosmetics. ArcheAge has been close to my heart for years, and Unchained feels heartwarming.”
“ArcheAge Unchained has a special place in my heart, and the new business model adds to that emotional connection.”
“The emotional journey this game offers is truly unique, making it a memorable experience.”
- atmosphere4 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The atmosphere in Archeage is highly praised for its evolving landscape, transforming from vast open land at launch to a vibrant environment filled with homes, farms, and community activity over time. Players appreciate the game's impressive visuals, which enhance the immersive experience, making the atmosphere engaging even before the visual updates.
“It's awesome to see vast open land at launch and then several weeks after launch, after the housing rush, that land is full of homes, farms, tall trees, and people farming. This creates a unique setting and atmosphere.”
“Archeage has very nice visuals; I loved the atmosphere even before the visual update of Unchained.”
- character development2 mentions
- 50 % positive mentions
- 50 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
Players appreciate the supportive community that aids in character development, helping newcomers navigate complex systems and improve their leveling experience. This collaborative environment enhances the overall growth and progression of characters within the game.
“The game's community of players also seems willing to assist you in your character development, understanding of some of the more complex systems, and leveling.”
