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Aion Review – A Fantastical Journey Between Heaven and Hell

Aion Review – A Fantastical Journey Between Heaven and Hell

Aion

6.5

Score

6.5/10

Pros

  • Lots of unique PvE and PvP content.
  • Classic and Retail Version.
  • Diverse class and subclass system, offering varied gameplay.
  • Rich lore and world-building, with an ongoing narrative.
  • Comprehensive social features, from housing to Legions.

Cons

  • Potential for grind during leveling and gear acquisition.
  • While the character editor is extensive, some desired features might be behind paywalls.

Launched in 2008, Aion provides a social, competitive, and immersive MMORPG experience. Whether you’re taking the skies with majestic wings or building legacies with your Legion, Aion promises a captivating journey for every player.

  • Developer: NCSoft
  • Publisher: NCSoft
  • Release Date: 2008
  • Platforms: Originally for PC (with subsequent expansions and updates for newer platforms as technology evolved)
  • Official website: https://www.aiononline.com
  • Genre: Fantasy MMORPG in PvPvE

Gameplay

Aion introduced several unique features at launch. The aerial combat system, which involves players using wings to fly and battle, is a standout. However, it’s worth noting that flight is limited to certain areas and has a cooldown, which can be a bit restrictive. The PvE content, consisting of quests, dungeons, and raids, is fairly standard for the genre, but it is well-executed. The PvPvE (Player vs. Player vs. Environment) zones, where players can combat each other while also dealing with AI enemies, provide an exciting twist to the traditional PvP format.

The lore of Aion revolves around a once-unified world torn into two by a cataclysmic event, resulting in the factions of the Elyos and the Asmodians. The narrative delves into themes of distrust, prejudice, and the constant struggle for power. While the lore is rich, the storytelling, especially in quests, can sometimes feel disjointed or generic.

One of Aion’s most praised features is its deep character customization. The character creation tool allows for an impressive level of detail, enabling players to craft truly unique avatars. This combined with the wide array of armors and outfits available in-game makes character personalization one of Aion’s strong suits.

The game’s community, like many MMORPGs, has gone through peaks and valleys. While there are tight-knit guilds and loyal players, some found the game’s PvP-centric endgame to be a breeding ground for toxicity. However, social features like the Legion (guild) system make it easy for like-minded players to band together.

Aion initially started as a subscription-based game but transitioned into a free-to-play model. The cash shop features various items, including cosmetics, convenience items, and more. Some players feel certain cash shop items provide too much of an advantage, verging on “pay-to-win.”

Graphics and Art Style

Aion’s graphics were considered groundbreaking at its initial release. Even after many years, the game’s visuals still stand out, particularly when it comes to character models and wing designs. The world is meticulously crafted, with high-definition textures and detailed environments. The art style is a blend of high fantasy and Asian aesthetic, which offers a refreshing change from typical Western-style MMORPGs.

Conclusion

Aion stands out in the MMORPG landscape for its unique aerial combat, in-depth character customization, and captivating visuals. While it has its flaws, especially in terms of storytelling and monetization, it offers a worthwhile experience for those seeking a blend of traditional MMORPG mechanics with some innovative twists.

For those looking to dive into a fantasy world with a fresh aesthetic and the joy of soaring through skies, Aion might just be the ticket. However, newcomers should be prepared for some grind and be aware of the game’s monetization strategies.

Aion System Requirements

Minimum Requirements

  • Memory: 1 GB
  • Graphics Card: GeForce 6800 GT or equal
  • CPU: Intel Pentium 4 2.8 GHz
  • File Size: 40 GB
  • OS: Windows 7/8 (32-bit)

Recommended Requirements

  • Memory: 4GB
  • Graphics Card: GeForce 9800 GT or better
  • CPU: Intel Pentium Core 2 Duo 2.9 GHz
  • File Size: 40 GB
  • OS: Windows 7/8 (32-bit)