Today, EA finally released a 20-minute Anthem gameplay demonstration, originally shown at the E3 2018 hands-on showcase. According to the expo participants, getting used to the controls isn't too difficult, as the game works like any typical third-person shooter and taking flight in the Iron Man-like exosuits is a lot of fun. Lead Producer Ben Irving takes us through a new level that focuses on the traversal, combat, and teamwork on display as four Freelancers complete the mission “Scars & Villainy.”
Anthem will compete directly with Destiny 2 and Tom Clancy's The Division 2, which could be worrying, considering that BioWare has never made a game that would be focused solely on multiplayer. The E3 2018 shed new light at the upcoming online shooter, and despite our concerns, one thing is certain - Anthem looks absolutely amazing powered by the latest version of DICE's Frostbite Engine.
EA has announced that Anthem will be released on February 22, 2019, and after years of a truly troubled production on Mass Effect: Andromeda and the recent reboot of the next chapter of the Dragon Age series, it's clear that BioWare needs to figure out how to not disappoint players again. Considering that it's owned by EA, there's always a possibility of an unexpected closure. Just ask Pandemic, Visceral, or Bullfrog. Be sure to check out the extended E3 2018 gameplay down below:
In this shared-world action-RPG, you and your friends are Freelancers—the bold few with the courage to leave civilization behind, explore a landscape of primeval beauty, and confront the dangers you find. Up to four players band together to take on whatever perils you discover as a heroic team. As your friends support you in your journey, so do your victories and rewards benefit your friends. Wield an arsenal of Javelin exosuits, each equipped with unique weapons and abilities. Customize them with gear you earn and craft, then use them to fly, leap, and climb through a contiguous open world.
Anthem will be released on PlayStation 4, Xbox One and PC (via Origin) on February 22, 2019.