A Farewell to Anthem: Reflecting on BioWare's Flawed Gem as Servers Close

Soaring to an End: The Legacy and Lingering Joy of Anthem's Final Days

The Impending Demise of an Online Universe

The virtual world of Anthem is on the brink of cessation. On January 12th, EA will permanently deactivate the servers for this always-online loot shooter, rendering it inaccessible. This marks an abrupt conclusion for any game, particularly for BioWare's title, which, despite a lukewarm reception seven years ago, possesses distinct qualities.

A Last-Minute Dive into a Fading World

My acquisition of Anthem in November 2023 for a mere $2 was a casual addition to my extensive gaming backlog. Unlike countless other unplayed titles, Anthem faces a ticking clock, compelling me to experience it before its final moments. While I may not complete the entire journey within the remaining week, my time with it has been surprisingly enjoyable. The game exhibits fundamental strengths that, in my opinion, warrant a more graceful exit.

The Core Allure: Mechanized Combat and Aerial Freedom

Anthem's primary appeal lies in its dynamic, mech-driven combat system. Players navigate the expansive map in powerful Javelin exosuits, engaging in a continuous cycle of looting and shooting. The sensation of piloting a Javelin offers an unparalleled "Iron Man simulator" experience. The flight mechanics, involving strategic descents and ascents to manage suit temperature, evoke the fluid movement of the Batman Arkham series, enhanced by aerial maneuvers and combat capabilities.

Refined Gunplay and Diverse Javelin Abilities

While Anthem's flight mechanics introduced a new dimension for BioWare in 2019, the studio's expertise in third-person shooting, honed through the Mass Effect series, is evident and polished. The combat seamlessly blends close-quarters engagements with long-range assaults. Beyond firearms, the four distinct Javelin types each boast unique special and ultimate abilities. From the Colossus's heavy ordnance to the Interceptor's swift melee attacks, the variety ensures a rich and engaging combat experience, even during solo play.

The Narrative Void: A BioWare Anomaly

Paradoxically, Anthem falters in an area where BioWare typically excels: storytelling. Known for its character-driven narratives and impactful player choices in titles like Mass Effect and Dragon Age, Anthem lacks these elements. The player character, a Freelancer, remains largely underdeveloped, with dialogue choices offering minimal influence on the unfolding events. The narrative progression feels predetermined, devoid of the meaningful decision-making that defines BioWare's best works.

Exposition Over Engagement: The Storytelling Shortcomings

Much of Anthem's narrative unfolds through exposition-heavy cutscenes and an opening cinematic, often cluttered with an abundance of proper nouns like "Anthem of Creation" and "Heart of Rage," which fail to resonate with players. Missions frequently involve repetitive tasks in visually similar environments, such as rescuing scientists or retrieving items. The lack of mission variety underscores the game's heavy reliance on its robust gunplay to maintain player engagement.

A Fond Farewell to a Gameplay-Driven Experience

Despite its narrative deficiencies, spending an afternoon with Anthem is hardly a wasted endeavor. While its characters and convoluted plot may fade from memory after its closure, the visceral thrill of piloting a Javelin will endure. BioWare masterfully crafted Anthem's moment-to-moment gameplay, much like Mass Effect Andromeda, where exceptional gameplay compensates for other shortcomings. Anthem's inability to achieve "Game of the Year" status does not diminish its inherent value. Many games, even those considered "mid-tier," cultivate devoted fanbases. Though its time is short, the game has undoubtedly provided its players with worthwhile experience