Free, with impressive graphics and aerial combat: MMO launches with 400,000 concurrent players but has one big problem

While many MMORPGs keep players busy primarily with ever-larger worlds on the ground, AION 2 also wants to make the skies a regular part of the game. It is “the only MMORPG that turns the sky itself into a battlefield,” the developers at NC write on Steam. Flying and aerial combat were already an integral part of the first AION, but the sequel's entire game world is designed much more consistently around them: Regions and battlefields were built around the vertical dimension. As winged Daevas, players can move freely in all directions, deliberately use altitude as a tactical advantage and incorporate aerial combat much more heavily into regular gameplay – without needing a flying mount.

On the ground, however, AION 2 moves into much more familiar MMO territory. The setting is once again Atreia – a fantasy world where, much like in World of Warcraft, two hostile factions face off against each other: the Elyos and Asmodians. Aside from its focus on flying, AION 2 follows a classic MMO formula: Complete quests, level up your character, collect better gear and team up with other players to fight through dungeons and raids. Crafting, world bosses, PvP and numerous side activities are also included.

Combat is noticeably faster-paced than in the original: Abilities can be chained together quickly, movement feels more direct and AION 2 is designed to play much more like an action game overall. The typical MMO framework of classes, skill rotations and group roles remains intact, however. The character creator is particularly extensive, allowing players to fine-tune faces, body types and numerous other details. The visuals are also worth mentioning. AION 2 is built on Unreal Engine 5 and looks genuinely impressive. Especially in open areas and from the air, the game sometimes looks more like a modern single-player RPG than a traditional MMORPG. However, this is also reflected in the system requirements. The recommended specs include 16 GB of RAM, a Ryzen 7 3700X and an NVIDIA RTX 2070.

AION 2 launches with over 400,000 players – and one big problem

With aerial combat and modern graphics, AION 2 appears to have caught the attention of plenty of players. Following the end of Advanced Access and the switch to the Free-to-Play model, the MMO surged to a peak of 397,905 concurrent players on Steam (according to SteamDB). Since AION 2 can also be played through NC's own Purple launcher, the actual number is likely even somewhat higher. However, only 65% of the more than 14,000 reviews submitted so far are positive.

The game itself is generally well received in the reviews, with plenty of praise for its impressive graphics, detailed game world and extensive character creator. Many players also like the combat system, as well as the flying, exploration and wide variety of activities. There are a few points of criticism – including a repetitive endgame, performance issues and some mobile-style mechanics such as auto-pathing and numerous currencies – but these are completely overshadowed by players' biggest concern: monetization.

While AION 2 is fundamentally free to play, NC sells a paid membership as well as two battle passes and various cosmetic items. Particularly controversial is the fact that the membership doesn't just offer convenience: Without it, key features such as the marketplace or auction house can only be used with restrictions. On top of that, real money can indirectly be converted into in-game currency and therefore into gear or faster progression.

In the Steam reviews, some players point out that the MMO can indeed be played for free – but only if you aren't trying to compete at the highest level. The community's accusation: AION 2 is a Pay-to-Win game. The fact that only 65% of Steam reviews are positive therefore appears to have less to do with the game itself and more with its monetization model. It remains to be seen what comes next for AION 2 and whether the developers will make further adjustments to its monetization.