Anthem

A sci-fi action RPG featuring jet-powered exosuits and cooperative play

Gameplay and Mechanics

Anthem is a third-person action RPG set in a futuristic, science-fantasy universe where players suit up in customizable exosuits known as Javelins. Each Javelin offers a distinct playstyle, allowing players to switch between forms such as the agile Interceptor, versatile Ranger, heavily armored Colossus, and elemental-focused Storm. The game centers on fluid movement—boosting, flying, and swimming across sprawling landscapes while engaging in both ranged and melee combat.

Players take on the role of a Freelancer, a highly-skilled pilot tasked with exploring dangerous territories and battling various threats left in the wake of mysterious ancient technology. Missions vary from story-driven quests to open world activities, encouraging a mix of solo and team play. The loot-driven progression system rewards players with gear and upgrades to further customize each Javelin, catering to different strategies and group dynamics.

World and Exploration

Anthem’s world features lush environments, towering ruins, and dynamic weather systems that create a visually arresting backdrop for both exploration and combat. The verticality introduced by the Javelins’ flight mechanics allows for dynamic navigation, opening up hidden areas and tactical advantages during encounters. The map includes a central hub city—Fort Tarsis—where players interact with NPCs, upgrade their gear, and make choices that impact narrative threads.

Cooperative Emphasis

The game shines in cooperative multiplayer, leveraging up to four-player squads to tackle increasingly challenging Strongs (Anthem’s equivalent of dungeons) and world events. Cooperative abilities complement the team aspect, enabling combo attacks and strategic teamwork during larger battles. While solo play is available, Anthem is designed with a social experience in mind, rewarding coordinated efforts and communication.

Story and Atmosphere

Anthem’s narrative layers science fiction with elements of ancient mystery. The story unfolds through cinematic sequences and dialogues that further immerse players in the world’s mythology, though the single-player and multiplayer divide at Fort Tarsis can at times disrupt pacing. Nevertheless, the voice acting and environmental storytelling help enrich the game’s lore.

Visuals and Performance

Powered by a sophisticated engine, Anthem delivers high-quality visuals, spectacular particle effects, and detailed landscapes. The Javelins themselves stand out for their intricate designs and attention to detail. However, performance can fluctuate on less powerful systems, and server connectivity issues have been a point of criticism since launch.

Overall Impression

Anthem offers a unique blend of fast-paced combat, engaging movement, and shared-world action. While some aspects, such as endgame content and narrative delivery, may not satisfy all players, the game provides a rich playground for those drawn to cooperative sci-fi shooters with RPG elements and impactful customization.