Neverwinter (video game)
Neverwinter is a free-to-play massively multiplayer online role-playing game (MMORPG) developed by Cryptic Studios and published by Perfect World Entertainment. The game is set in the Forgotten Realms campaign setting of Dungeons & Dragons.
Gameplay:
Neverwinter features action-oriented combat, distinguishing it from more traditional tab-target MMORPGs. Players directly control their character's movement and attacks, with an emphasis on positioning and timing. The game features a class-based system, with players choosing from a variety of character classes based on classic Dungeons & Dragons archetypes, such as Fighter, Rogue, Cleric, and Wizard. Each class possesses unique powers and abilities.
The game world is persistent and explorable, featuring a variety of zones inspired by the Dungeons & Dragons universe, including the city of Neverwinter itself, as well as surrounding areas like the Sword Coast. Players can engage in quests, dungeons, and skirmishes, either solo or in groups. The game also includes player-versus-player (PvP) combat.
A key feature of Neverwinter is the "Foundry," a user-generated content system that allows players to create and share their own quests and adventures. This allows for a constantly evolving game world and a vast amount of player-created content.
Setting:
The game is set in the aftermath of a cataclysm that devastated the city of Neverwinter. Players work to rebuild the city and defend it from various threats, including undead hordes, evil cults, and monstrous creatures. The storyline draws heavily from Dungeons & Dragons lore and includes appearances from iconic characters and locations.
Development and Release:
Neverwinter was announced in 2010 and released in 2013 for PC. It was subsequently released on Xbox One in 2015 and PlayStation 4 in 2016. The game has received numerous expansions and updates since its initial release, adding new classes, zones, story content, and gameplay features.