Astellia Online: A Promising MMORPG Adventure
Astellia is a beautiful up-and-coming MMORPG scheduled to release in the West this year. Originally released in 2016 in China, it is finally making its way here, and it's something many of us have been looking forward to. As avid MMO players, we had the opportunity to play through the previous Korean version of Astellia Online, but we had no clue what was being said at any point in the game.
Astellia Online is a 3D fantasy MMORPG being published in the West by Barunson E&A. It's a semi-instance MMO, with zones locked off from one another by loading screens, similar to Blade & Soul. While the official website states that it's a classical MMORPG, Astellia Online Asper is the in-game currency, there are some refreshing elements that set it apart. One such element is the inclusion of companions called Estelles, who accompany you on your journey through the world. The game can be played solo or with a party, depending on your play style, but you're never truly alone with your Estelles by your side.
The game's beauty is undeniable. The visuals are stunning, and the character creation offers a high level of customization. Although the classes available during the closed beta were gender-locked, the publishers have promised to make at least two of the classes gender-neutral in the future.
The Estelles in Astellia Online is a unique feature. Depending on your class, you will have a different lineup of Estelles at your disposal. These companions can be summoned at any time, providing additional skills and abilities. However, summoning multiple Estelles will deplete your energy faster. The Estelles range from tanks and DPS to healers, providing players with a variety of options to suit their playstyle.
The developers behind Astellia Online aimed to provide players with the freedom to solo content or party up with others, catering to both social and reclusive players. The combat mechanics involve tab-targeting, with a hybrid of action thrown in. The dodge function, controlled by a double tap, adds an extra layer of engagement to the combat. While the combat may feel a bit clunky at times, it has the potential to be great with some further refinement.
During our playthrough, we didn't get the chance to experience PvP, as it unlocks at level 30. However, we're eager to hear from those who did and their thoughts on it. Astellia Online offers opportunities for PvP, which adds an exciting element to the gameplay.
Overall, we found Astellia Online to be a well-thought-out game with decent voice acting and beautiful visuals. Although it may feel slightly dated compared to more recent releases, it holds up nicely and offers a refreshing take on the MMO genre. The inclusion of Estelles adds a unique dynamic to the gameplay, making it stand out from other MMOs.
While there are areas for improvement, such as combat smoothness, we believe that Astellia Online has the potential to be brilliant with some fine-tuning. The game's detailed regions and hidden exploration areas make for an immersive experience. We're excited to see how the game progresses and what improvements will be made leading up to the launch. We expect to see you all at launch, ready to embark on an epic adventure in the world of Astellia Online.
