As Aeternum continues to evolve, so too does New World, Amazon Games' expansive MMORPG. The 2025 update introduces sweeping changes and fresh content, including new characters, weapon types, and New World coins revamped skill trees. Whether you're a returning adventurer or a newcomer, this comprehensive guide will help you master the latest features and dominate in both PvE and PvP.

1. New Characters & Faction Updates

While New World traditionally doesn't introduce playable characters in the way hero-based games do, the 2025 update introduces Legendary Allies — powerful NPCs that can be recruited temporarily for special expeditions and instanced events.

Legendary Allies: Who They Are

These characters offer buffs, unique combat support, and lore-rich side quests.

Kaelen of the Storms – A sword-and-shield specialist who boosts defense and taunts enemies.

Thalia the Embercaller – A pyromancer with AoE fire spells and passive healing aura.

Bran the Hollowfang – A rogue-type vampire hybrid with stealth and lifesteal abilities.

To unlock these allies:

Complete the "Call of the Ancients" questline.

Reach at least Faction Rank 3.

Acquire their token through faction-based challenges.

These allies can only be summoned during specific encounters but can drastically change the tide of battle.

2. Weapon Additions & Meta Shifts

The 2025 update brings two new weapons: the Glaive and the Rune Gauntlet, both introducing fresh playstyles and shifting the game’s meta.

The Glaive (Melee + Ranged Hybrid)

A polearm-style weapon that balances sweeping melee with precise throwing techniques.

Skill Trees:

Wind Cutter: Focused on agility, dodging, and chain attacks.

Harrier's Reach: Specializes in mid-range throwing glaives that bleed enemies and return like a boomerang.

Highlights:

High crowd control.

Works well in PvP against mobile enemies.

Benefits from Dexterity and some Strength scaling.

Tip: Pair with a bow for a Dexterity-focused glass-cannon build.

Rune Gauntlet (Magic Weapon)

A heavy-hitting magical weapon that draws on ancient runes for buffs, shields, and AoE damage.

Skill Trees:

Runes of Dominion: Grants buffs to allies, shields, and warding effects.

Runes of Desolation: Specializes in raw AoE magic and DoT (damage over time).

Highlights:

Ideal for support roles and group synergy.

Great for dungeon healing or battlefield control.

Scales with Intelligence and Focus.

Tip: Best paired with the Life Staff or Ice Gauntlet for hybrid support-mage roles.

3. Revamped Skill System

New World has overhauled its skill progression system, making it more modular and build-diverse.

New Skill Points Allocation

Instead of rigid skill trees, players now get:

10 base ability slots (3 per weapon, 4 passive perks).

Universal modifiers like “Burn on Hit” or “Evasion +10%” can be unlocked through achievements.

Custom Loadouts allow for:

Quick switching in cities and sanctuaries.

PvE/PvP-specific optimization.

Saveable gear+skill+stat presets.

Crafting Skills Matter More

Crafting now passively enhances your character:

Master Weaponsmith grants +5% crit chance with crafted weapons.

Expert Alchemist extends potion durations.

Grand Enchanter unlocks special affixes not available through drops.

Tip: Don’t neglect crafting—buffs now persist even in PvP arenas.

4. Best Builds of the 2025 Meta

With new weapons and skill trees, here are some of the top-performing builds right now:

Ranger Glaivemaster (Dexterity Build)

Primary: Glaive (Harrier's Reach)

Secondary: Bow

Armor: Medium

Highlights: Exceptional for PvP kiting, bleed damage, and mobility.

Perks to Look For: Refreshing Move, Keenly Jagged

Rune Warder (Support Mage)

Primary: Rune Gauntlet (Runes of Dominion)

Secondary: Life Staff

Armor: Light

Highlights: Supreme utility in dungeons and faction wars.

Perks: Blessed, Fortifying Sacred Ground, Empowered Rune

Storm Warden (Tank/CC)

Primary: Sword & Shield

Secondary: Glaive (Wind Cutter)

Armor: Heavy

Highlights: Uses Kaelen of the Storms for double taunt synergy.

Perks: Fortify on Block, Leeching Strike

5. PvP & PvE Balance Changes

The latest balance patch addressed several issues:

PvP Adjustments:

Stagger Mechanics: Reduced in light armor to prevent stun-lock abuse.

Healing Nerf: Self-heals now have diminishing returns after consecutive use.

Weapon Swap Cooldown: Increased to 1.5 seconds if swapped under crowd control.

PvE Updates:

Expeditions now scale with group item level for better matchmaking.

Legendary World Bosses now drop unique runes for the Gauntlet.

Faction Missions now reward higher XP and rare materials.

6. Tips for Progressing in 2025

Whether you're solo or in a company, keep these tips in mind:

Power Leveling Tips

Elite Zones in Brimstone Sands and Elysian Wilds offer the best XP/hour.

Rotate between PvE and faction PvP missions to maximize territory standing.

Do Town Board Projects daily for both XP and crafting resources.

Best Ways to Earn Gold

Rune Gauntlet crafting is in high demand — sell enchanted components.

Faction Token farming can earn you exclusive sellable gear.

Flip rare mats and consumables during peak hours (especially after war declarations).

7. Final Thoughts & What's Next

The 2025 New World update has revitalized the game’s meta and introduced deep customization options for every type of player. The addition of new weapons like the Glaive and Rune Gauntlet, combined with enhanced skill trees and cheap New World coins the introduction of Legendary Allies, allows for diverse playstyles across PvP, PvE, and crafting.

Looking ahead, Amazon has hinted at mounts, underwater zones, and a potential 5th faction in the next major patch. Now is the perfect time to explore Aeternum and rise as a legend.

Stay sharp, Adventurer! With the right build, knowledge, and strategy, you’ll conquer whatever challenges this mysterious island throws your way.