Despite a rough start forAnthem, it is clear that developer BioWare has not given up on the game. Plans are already underway for what the developer is callingAnthem 2.0, a major overhaul for the game. Several blog posts from BioWare have outlined changes planned for the overhaul, with the latest talking about Javelins. The blog outlines several changes coming to the Javelins in 2.0, and while exact details are scarce, it does outline how the new skill trees and build systems for the Javelins will work.
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The Javelins ofAnthem 2.0will handle their abilities in a completely different way based on feedback form the community. Abilities will be unlocked via a skill tree rather than dropped as loot. Each Javelin will have its own skill tree to be maxed out through play. Of all theJavelin improvements listed in the update, this is probably the most important one, allowing Javelins to be built a certain way consistently. Relying on randomized drops for builds can often feel dissatisfying, and this will go a long way towards mitigating or nullifying that.
On top of that, Javelins will now have Specialization skill trees. These can be accessed after maximizing the generic skill tree for a Javelin. Each skill tree will have furtherimprovements for a Javelin’s weapons and abilitiescentered around a specific gameplay style. The examples given were three separate specializations for the Ranger, so presumably each of the four Javelin classes has three specializations as well. All of this is in addition to each class gaining access to its own powerful Artifact, which will further change how the Javelin is used.
IfAnthem’s new loadout and skill tree systemis handled properly, it could prove very revitalizing for every aspect of the game. Building a unique character is always fun in any game, lending a sense of purpose and identity.Path of Exilehas shown that a skill tree and specializations system can work wonders, and ifAnthemcan pull it off, it could work wonders there as well.
Of course, that assumes that the changes brought about are truly meaningful. Each skill must feel genuinely impactful and worth investment. If the skill tree ends up playing second fiddle to loot,Anthemwill continue to fail whereDestiny 2succeeds.
Anthemis available for PC, PS4, and Xbox One.
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