Amazon Games’ New World drops you onto Aeternum, a cursed supernatural island where the dead don’t stay dead and every tree, rock and ore vein is a resource worth fighting for. It’s a big, open-ended MMO, and the first few hours can feel overwhelming. This guide covers what actually matters when you’re starting out.
There Are No Classes — Your Weapons Are Your Build
New World doesn’t lock you into a class. Instead, you equip two weapons and swap between them on the fly. Each weapon has its own mastery tree, and your attribute points (Strength, Dexterity, Intelligence, Focus and Constitution) decide how hard those weapons hit. A Sword and Shield paired with a Hatchet makes a sturdy bruiser; a Fire Staff and Life Staff lets you deal damage and heal. Pick one weapon you enjoy, then choose a second that covers its weaknesses.
Combat Is Action, Not Tab-Targeting
You aim every swing, shot and spell yourself. Dodging, blocking and managing stamina matter far more than gear in the early game. Learn your weapon’s dodge timing and heavy attack early — it will carry you through elite areas later.
Gathering and Crafting Are Core, Not Optional
Every tree you chop and every ore vein you mine feeds the crafting system. Trade skills like Weaponsmithing, Armoring and Cooking level separately from your character, and crafted gear can rival dropped loot. Early on, grab everything you pass — you’ll need it for town projects and upgrades.
- Cook food early: food buffs boost health regeneration and attributes.
- Use storage sheds: storage is per settlement, so plan which town you call home.
- Check town boards: they offer quick XP, coin and faction standing.
Choosing a Faction
Around the early levels you’ll pledge to one of three factions: the Marauders, the Syndicate or the Covenant. Factions compete for territory control, which affects taxes and bonuses in each settlement. Choose the one your friends or company play — you can’t switch freely, so it’s worth coordinating.
Expeditions and Group Content
Expeditions are New World’s dungeons, built for five players with a tank, a healer and three damage dealers. They’re one of the best sources of gear and story. Don’t be afraid to queue early — most players are happy to help newcomers who listen.
Final Tips
Don’t rush the main story. Aeternum rewards curiosity, whether that’s a hidden lore page, a rare resource node or a world event that pulls a whole zone together. Take your time, keep your stamina in check, and Aeternum will open up fast.