Everything we know about Anthem

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The World of Anthem
At the time of its inception, gods known as Shapers used huge pieces of powerful technology to command a force called the Anthem of Creation, forming the planet. Then, they left. Shaper technology litter the landscape, and they are far from dormant. They seem to activate randomly, causing cataclysmic changes to the world and creating a hostile environment... [Source] [Source]

Anthem is aiming to be the "HBO series of games". There’s the gameplay and the missions to do, but the context is always changing. There’s always a new narrative situation that evolves over time. To keep players engaged BioWare wants to ease players’ return after a long absence. “In the HBO premise, they will choose at different times, like after a holiday hiatus, they’ll do a ‘last time on Game of Thrones’ thing. I think we’ll end up doing things like that to get you caught up on things going on.” [Source]

As an example of their evolving world, they can say there’s a crazy snowstorm this weekend. That lake you used to dive into is now frozen over and you can get to a new cave. You’ve been to that place a bunch of times, but not in that situation. Now everything is different. The other thing is putting everything into an ongoing narrative. It’s not just that there will be daily and weekly events, there are character arcs and world lore story arcs. There’s a long-term narrative about what’s going on in the world that changes over time. [Source]

It’s not Earth. “There are humans here, but they are not Earthlings,” Warner says. “There are no ties to Earth or another planet. This was the place they originated.” [Source]

At the heart of Anthem™ is a unique concept called Our World, My Story. It forms the foundation for how Anthem combines a shared world and a personal single-player story into one seamless experience. [Source]

OUR WORLD
One of the great things about Anthem is that its shared world is able to sync weather, day/night cycles, and even large-scale events for every player around the globe (through the use of dedicated servers). So when your friend on the other hemisphere is in your group, you can be sure that they’re seeing the same environments that you are. That’s important because there may be certain events that only trigger in daytime or nighttime.

This is the “Our World” part of Our World, My Story. Imagine you’re out in the world on a mission, it’s dark and it’s storming. It messes with your visibility and you and your friends experience it all at the exact same time. This creates real “Did you see that?” moments that emphasize the importance of camaraderie and triumphing as one. You can jump into an in-game party with friends and help them take on their own missions, or choose to explore the Anthem world at your own pace and go looking for your next adventure together.

The world of Anthem is dynamic, and it will undergo huge transformations as the game goes forward. So how do you provide that and still give players a meaningful single-player narrative? Well, that’s where “My Story” comes in.

MY STORY
When you return to Fort Tarsis, you step into your own single-player experience. Here you'll develop your relationships, make choices, and see the consequences of your actions. As your decisions weigh on the world around you, the people of Fort Tarsis will react to your presence accordingly. They’ll remember how you’ve interacted with them before, and they might not be too happy about it.

You'll also get to regroup with your crew, getting to know them a little bit better as you progress. Your crew tags along in the strider, your towering mobile base of operations, but here in Fort Tarsis they’ve got the chance to stretch their legs between missions. As other characters in the game come to trust you they will reveal more of their personal history, as well as additional story details that you may not see otherwise.

As you explore the city-fortress, you'll come in contact with agents seeking your aid as a Freelancer. These agent missions will take you deeper into the factions that operate within the world of Anthem, and open up new avenues of relationships with the agents themselves. Each adventure you complete will give you a better sense of the factions around you, as well as your responsibilities as a Freelancer.

And once you’ve had your chance to explore, pick up new missions and contracts, and maybe even give your javelins a new paint job, you can head back into the wilds of Anthem again.

OUR WORLD, MY STORY
Our World, My Story is key to the Anthem experience. The larger world is shaped by shared, dynamic, world-scale events, while individual players still have the freedom to make the world their own through personal choices.

Developing your personal story adds to the missions you can take into the shared world, and your achievements in the shared world will add to the depth of your personal story. These two halves of Our World, My Story are seamlessly knit together, creating a richer experience for every Freelancer.

The fate of Fort Tarsis, the Freelancers, and ultimately humanity rests on your shoulders, and it’s up to you to decide how you’ll proceed on this journey through the unfinished world of Anthem.


The Main Story
The initial story of Anthem one of The Freelancers vs The Dominion. A classic story that has a beginning, middle, and end. Then that’s over, but the world conflict will continue on and on. It is basically impossible to spoil the story for your friends during a mission, as so much of the story tied to your SP decisions in Fort Tarsis. [Source] [Source]


Game Map
[Source]
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(click for high res)


Facts about The World of Anthem
▲ Anthem is a world without microchips and a world without mass production. [Source]
▲ The planet where the game takes place has a name they are not revealing yet. [Source]
▲ You can look up in the sky and there are two moons. [Source]
▲ The Day/Night Cycle is less than 1 hour (real time). Day/Night will also impact the enemy types you encounter and behavior. [Source] [Source]
▲ There is a Dynamic Weather system in Anthem, and it can apply Status Effects to your Javelin. [Source]
▲ “Part of the mystery of the whole IP is: Where did this stuff come from?” Gamble says. “Where did the Scars come from? Where did that giant Titan creature come from?” [Source]
▲ The game is largely set in a jungle environment, with "a few surprises to come". [Source]
▲ BioWare says that systemic events like changing weather or incoming alien attacks will also be a major focus. [Source]
▲ “We conceived the world as different ecosystems,” Warner says. “Each ecosystem has its own band of creatures that are native to it. So as you traverse the map, you’re going to encounter different types of creatures.” [Source]
▲ There are no allied alien races. [Source]
▲ Some of the ruins scattered across Anthem were originally built by humans, others by "something" else. [Source]
▲ You can Fast Travel. [Source]
▲ There is a Codex in the game, but it will not be voiced. [Source]
▲ There will likely be nods to BioWare's other franchises. [Source]
▲ No Pets in Anthem, and likely no domesticated animals at all. [Source] [Source]
▲ You can harvest plants, but cannot hunt animals (for resources). [Source]
▲ There are Sports in the World of Anthem, though not playable. [Source] [Source]
▲ If you try to venture beyond the outer boundaries of the open world, you will likely receive an out-of-bounds warning and be teleported back in-bounds. [Source]

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The Javelin Exosuits
In the world of Anthem™, the javelin exosuits are your key to survival in the harsh wilderness outside of Fort Tarsis. They are powerful suits of armor equipped with propulsion and weapons that allow you the speed and firepower you’ll need to complete your missions. Javelins are handcrafted by the meticulous work of arcanists, and only expert pilots can unlock the full potential of their exosuits. The Ranger javelin is the first you’ll suit up in, which we’ll get into detail about here, but as you progress you’ll unlock all four of the javelins – the other three include the Colossus, Interceptor, and Storm. You’ll be able to swap between them to improve both your javelin’s abilities and the overall skill of your pilot. [Source]

In Anthem™, you’ll grow stronger with every mission you complete and every monster you destroy. But your journey may offer surprising gifts that allow you to progress and grow in different ways. So let’s cover the basics of progression in the world of Anthem. [Source]

PILOTS & JAVELINS: THE BASICS
In Anthem, you play as a pilot who can use an arsenal of Javelins to complete their missions. But you’ll also be able to have several pilot profiles on a single game. So don’t worry if you share a game console at home, you won’t have to share your progress as well. Your pilots and Javelins are both individually upgradeable and customizable. What does that mean? Well, your pilot has its own level, and each of your javelins has a unique collection of equipment. As you progress and level up, your pilot will receive points to upgrade and your javelin will collect new equipment, giving greater power and more options to your loadout.

PILOT PROGRESSION
Pilot progression applies to every Javelin your pilot uses, and focuses on those aspects of being a pilot that aren’t tied to a specific Javelin. You can put points into flying for longer periods of time without overheating, allowing for greater mobility during combat, and fewer stops when traversing long distances, for example.

JAVELIN PROGRESSION
As your pilot gains experience operating a specific Javelin, you’ll collect lots of equipment of differing abilities and rarities. You might want to equip components to reduce the cooldown of your Ranger’s grenade attack and dish out even more damage in the field, as an example. Each javelin – Ranger, Colossus, Interceptor, and Storm – all have their own unique equipment which can be collected. Your loadout choices will allow you to tailor your javelin’s abilities to your playstyle, or discover different playstyles you may not have considered.

JAVELIN CUSTIOMIZATION
Of course, with every completed mission comes the possibility of new gear and weaponry. Upgrading weapons and honing your loadout is another crucial piece of your progression, and will further allow you to create the perfect Javelin for you. Be sure to align your progression choices with your customization for maximum effect against enemies.

The challenges you’ll face in the world of Anthem will only get greater and more dangerous, so your pilot and Javelins will have to be at their best in order to take them on. How will you choose to face the worst threats that Mirrus has to throw at you?


THE RANGER
▲ The Ranger is the first javelin exosuit you’ll receive as you begin in Anthem. It’s precise, versatile, and an all-around master of combat.
▲ All Freelancers train on the Ranger first in Anthem. Not because it’s the easiest, but because it’s the most versatile. In the hands of a master pilot, the Ranger can achieve feats of combat prowess that no other javelin can touch.
▲ The Ranger has a deep bag of tricks to draw from, and there is no combat situation it can’t take on effectively. With access to every weapon type, the Ranger is a true wild card that can complement any team and any mission. [Source]

THE COLOSSUS
▲ The largest of the four, the Colossus trades mobility for defense, carrying a deployable shield as well as a devastating Siege Cannon.
▲ Meet Anthem’s Colossus, a hulking war machine designed to clear out entire hives of vicious predatory fauna with mounted artillery, heavy arms, or even, yes, a flamethrower. It’s got reinforced armor plating. It’s got jet propulsion. It’s got a cannon. I’m pretty sure it’s even got a cupholder (it doesn’t). If you’re looking to trample through the wilderness in comfort with ]heavy artillery strapped to your back, the Colossus is for you. [Source]

THE STORM
▲ Mysterious and devastating, the Storm javelin uses powerful seal technology to blast enemies with the raw fury of the Anthem.
▲ Developed by the Dominion in their Northern home of Stralheim, the Storm uses seal technology to boost the latent kinesis powers of its pilot. The result is a javelin that can float effortlessly above the ground and unleash the raw energy of the Anthem itself. Only through painstaking arcanist research has anyone outside the Dominion had a chance to wield the Storm’s awesome potential. And while the Storm can channel unbelievable amounts of energy, it has little in the way of defensive capabilities and requires an expert pilot to stay above the fight and dish out damage from a safe distance. [Source]

THE INTERCEPTOR
▲ The Interceptor javelin might not have the imposing silhouette of the Colossus, but it still knows how to pack a punch. The Interceptor excels at getting up next to enemies to deal damage and then dashing away before they can strike back. With powerful blades and a full suite of devastating abilities, the Interceptor is both incredibly self-reliant and an excellent supporting squadmate. [Source]


Unlocking the Javelins
▲ During the course of the critical path, you will earn three more javelins: the heavily armored Colossus, the elementally powered Storm, and the Interceptor (think Rogue)... [Source] [Source]
▲ The order in which you unlock the 3 other Javelins will be determined by the order you do certain missions. [Source]
▲ It will take less than a quarter of the game to unlock all the Javelins. [Source]


Weapons
▲ Primary Gun Types: Pistols, Assault Rifles, Shotguns, Grenade Launchers, and Miniguns. [Source]
▲ There are Sniper Rifles in the game... for now. It's still being determined whether it can be balanced for the game. [Source] 
▲ Each Gear Slot is for a different weapon. So you won't be able to equip 2 mortars for example. [Source]
▲ Some weapon types can be used by different Javelins. Lighter suits can use Pistols, however the Colossus can't. But everyone else can't use the Minigun the Colossus uses. And then each Javelin has different gear slots that are unique to that Javelin. [Source]
▲ For some weapons you will enter First Person View to stare down the weapon sights when in tight aim. [Source] [Source]
▲ Each class of Javelin has its own specific Ultimate Attack. And there won't be any options to change it, at least at launch. [Source]
▲ You build your (Ultimate Attack) meter based on a lot of different things (some of which are suit dependent), kills is just one of them. So you can absolutely build your ultimate meter on bosses.
▲ You will not be able to upgrade low-level weapons into high-level ones. [Source]
▲ You will be able to recycle your old guns into "something else". [Source]
▲ You can fire your Guns while Hovering, but not in mid-flight. Some Gear can be used in-flight - eg. the Ranger's Ultimate. [Source] [Source]
▲ You can Reload while Hovering. [Source]
▲ There will be guns with Scopes in Anthem. [Source]
▲ You can melee enemies while in flight [Source]


Defenses
▲ Your Javelins cannot be damaged in such a way where you'd be required to return to base in order to have it repaired (like in some other games). [Source] 
▲ Javelins have a Regenerating Shield (at least on the Ranger) which needs to brought down before your Javelin will take real damage (which does not regenerate). [Source]
▲ Auras were mentioned as having abilities that not just straight-up damage. [Source]


Jetpacks
▲ Your Jetpacks generate heat and you will need to either land or find another way to cool them off (eg. flying through waterfalls, underwater, skim the surface of water, potentially rain storms, etc.). [Source] [Source] [Source]
▲ The Jetpack's heat builds faster the steeper your climb. It builds a lot slower if you dive (and may even go down a bit - tbd). Also, they currently cool down more quickly if you haven't overheated them. Mechanics like these allow more experienced players to extend their flight times longer than someone new to the game. [Source] [Source]
▲ Improving your javelins isn’t the only way you get stronger. Your pilot also gains skills that apply universally to any javelin you use. For instance, the booster jets on your javelins overheat with continued use, but by investing in a certain pilot skill, you can increase the amount of time you’re able to stay airborne in all of your suits. [Source]
▲ Different Javelins have different properties in relation to jetpacks overheating.[Source]
▲ While there are upgrades for how how it will take your engines to overheat, you won't be able to upgrade the Javelin's speed. This is because they want squads to be able to stick together. [Source]
▲ There will likely be more Javelins introduced in the future. [Source]
▲ In the rain, Javelins are capable of flying longer, possibly indefinitely. [Source]
▲ Jetpacks can also be cooled by Ice Damage... but it's still damage. [Source]
▲ You can turn off your Jetpack in mid-flight. [Source]
▲ You have to "stop flying" to land. If you fly into the ground... it will hurt. [Source]
▲ You cannot fly backwards, but you can move backwards while hovering. [Source] [Source]


Appearance
▲ There are no gender variations on the Javelins. [Source] [Source]
1. The differences were barely noticeable.
2. In an era of harassment, having gender variation would mean also allowing players to choose their suit if they wished. This was unplanned work.
3. And some other things.
▲ You won't be able to adjust the Javelin's height, weight, etc.. [Source]


Misc.
▲ It's been hinted (maybe) that the Storm & Interceptor Javelins might have Support/Healing Abilities. [Source]
▲ The environment can affect your Javelin (hot, cold, wet, dry) and give you tactical advantages as well. [Source]
▲ Outside of combat, the Javelins all have the same (overland travel) speed to keep groups together. [Source]
▲ The Javelins are capable of Jumping. Some can Double-Jump. [Source] [Source]
▲ There will be Ammo Drops in the world. [Source]
▲ There is a Breath Meter when underwater. [Source]
▲ Pure Melee Builds? Not at launch. [Source]
▲ Javelins will not get worn out with use, but will have visible wear states. [Source]
▲ Beyond a javelin’s combat capabilities, you also personalize its appearance through paintjobs and other cosmetic additions that can change your javelin’s silhouette. BioWare likens it to customizing a car, interacting and tweaking at different layers to ensure that your javelins look cool. [Source]
▲ Skins and color schemes are multiple use. [Source]
▲ Cosmetics will be Javelin-specific. [Source]
▲ Cosmetic changes will not change the Javelin's hitbox shape or size. [Source]
▲ There will be full color customization and some part customization as well. [Source]
▲ You can purchase both pattern-based and textural skins. [Source]
▲ Link to Javelin Icons: [Source]
▲ There will be an option to save Multiple Personalization Loadouts. [Source]
▲ Gear can be assigned to multiple loadouts. [Source]
▲ The Javelins have lights to see at night. [Source]
▲ There will likely be more Javelins introduced in the future. [Source]
▲ There will be Set Bonuses. Set bonuses, as the name suggests, offer some kind of boost to a player who manages to acquire and equip every piece of gear from a single set, creating an incentive for players to grind for specific loot. [Source]
▲ There is a Freelancer Perk that increases loot pickup radius. [Source]

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The Colossus [Source]
Your javelin exosuit is the key to your survival in the world of Anthem. Without one, the dangers that pervade the wilds outside of Fort Tarsis would be overwhelming. The Colossus is just one of the javelins you’ll get to pilot, though you can switch freely between your javelins between missions. So let’s get to know the features and abilities that make Colossus such a powerhouse in the field.

APPETITE FOR DESTRUCTION
We’ve all been there. Faced up against a roiling horde of fanged monstrosities, firing off round after useless round into the ocean of carapaced beasts, getting absolutely nowhere, and slowly at that. Well friends, we don’t have to live like that anymore. Meet Anthem’s Colossus, a hulking war machine designed to clear out entire hives of vicious predatory fauna with mounted artillery, heavy arms, or even, yes, a flamethrower. It’s got reinforced armor plating. It’s got jet propulsion. It’s got a cannon. I’m pretty sure it’s even got a cupholder (it doesn’t). If you’re looking to trample through the wilderness in comfort with heavy artillery strapped to your back, the Colossus is for you.

COLOSSUS JAVELIN EXOSUIT FEATURES
▲ Heavy Smash: The Colossus can use its massive chassis as a weapon both in a diving smash attack from the air and a hammering melee attack. This not only clears out smaller enemies instantly, but has a chance to knock down foes and leave them open to follow-up attacks.
▲ Shield: Providing immense frontal damage mitigation, the Colossus can deploy a shield from its arm in order to close distance on an attacking enemy or charge through environmental hazards as easy as you please. The shield is also deployable while the Colossus is hovering or flying.
▲ High Explosive Mortar: The heavier chassis of the Colossus allows for larger weaponry to be mounted and operated – including a ballistic mortar. An excellent ambush tactic, the mortar rains down punishing amounts of damage and finishes fights just as well as it starts them.
▲ Siege Cannon: The Colossus’ ultimate ability, the Siege Cannon is pure mayhem unleashed on the battlefield. Just aim it at something you want to disappear, pull the trigger, and watch the magic act.

THE NOT-SO-GENTLE GIANT
With its focus on damage mitigation and explosive power, the Colossus is a favorite among Freelancers who prefer a brute force solution to their problems. Whether you need the straightforward approach for a mission or you just like a little roomier fit, the Colossus is an amazing addition to your javelin arsenal. Check out our suit guides on the Ranger, Interceptor, and Storm javelin exosuits for more details as we get ready to venture into the wilds of Anthem.


Notes on the Colossus
▲ "The Colossus is great," Warner said. "You can outfit it to play a tanky role. Instead of a dodge, the Colossus brings up a heavy shield, which we'll see later on, that can absorb a lot of damage. But you don't have to just be a bullet sponge for your team if you're playing the Colossus. This Colossus has a legendary mortar equipped, so he's got a lot of long-distance attacks on this, he's got a railgun on his right arm. So there's a lot of options for how you play any specific chassis. And it really is up to how you like to play, and what your playstyle is."[Source]
▲ The Colossus can use arm-mounted heavy weapons why flying, but not their shoulder-mounted weapons. [Source]
▲ The Colossus has a deployable shield & a thruster-based jump. [Source]
▲ The Colossus can use its Shield for offense as well as defense. [Source]

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The Storm
The world of Anthem™ is dangerous, and safety outside the walls of Fort Tarsis requires the use of powerful javelin exosuits. The Storm javelin is one of the exosuits you’ll unlock as you delve deep into the mysteries of this unpredictable world. And to stop the looming threat of the Dominion, you’ll need to master every one of your javelin’s abilities.

THE SOUND OF THUNDER
The Storm javelin first arrived in Fort Tarsis as a rumor. Developed by the Dominion in their Northern home of Stralheim, the Storm uses a powerful technology known as “seals” to boost the latent kinesis powers of its pilot. The result is a javelin that can float effortlessly above the ground and unleash the raw energy of the Anthem. Only through painstaking Arcanist research has anyone outside the Dominion had a chance to wield the Storm’s awesome potential. And while the Storm can channel unbelievable amounts of elemental force, it has little in the way of defensive capabilities and requires an expert pilot to stay above the fight and dish out damage from a safe distance.

NOTE: As the game is still in development, all game features may be subject to change and there will be more to share. We’ll update as necessary.

STORM JAVELIN EXOSUIT FEATURES
▲ Hover: By manipulating kinetic energy, the Storm is able to maintain a low hover and remain mobile and combat-effective while in mid-air. This allows the pilot to keep distance from their enemies and keep a clear vantage point over the entire battle.
▲ Teleportation: With its incredible command of kinesis abilities, the Storm can maneuver in the air, moving through space instantaneously to arrive at a new position nearby, evading its enemies.

THE EYE OF THE STORM
With its elemental power and minimal armor, the Storm has a reputation for being a tempestuous javelin that can spell disaster for even experienced pilots. But ask anyone who’s survived a fight with one and they’ll tell you that there’s no doubting the strength of the Storm. Whether the Storm suits your style as a pilot, your needs for a particular mission, or just your mood that day, it’s a great addition to your arsenal of javelins. Learn more in our guides on the Ranger, Colossus, and Interceptor javelin exosuits for more details as we prepare to take on the biggest threats looming in the world of Anthem.


Notes on the Storm
▲ The Storm is a combo elementalist.
▲ "The trick with the Storm is, the elemental attacks are great. They apply status effects which set up great combos for the rest of your team. You don't have a lot of armor though, it's a really slim suit. So you're quite vulnerable. When you're up in the air, you get a damage mitigating shield. When you're down on the ground, no shield. So it becomes tricky, it's a neat skill balance and a lot of fun to play." [Source]
▲ The Storm is definitely similar to an Adept from Mass Effect. But it can also be like a Vanguard depending on what gear you use. [Source]
▲ The Storm Javelin is almost like a Magic User, using the Anthem of Creation which is the energy in the world. [Source]
▲ Two weapons specifically mentioned for the Storm Javelin - Lightning & Ice Shards. Though we know they have other elemental weapons as well. [Source]
▲ The Storm Javelin hover is different than the other suits, you hover by pressing jump again. It does not generate heat. Right now there's no limitation on it, you can hover forever. [Source]
▲ While hovering does not generate heat, continuous flight can overheat its power core. [Source]
▲ Hinted at having Cloaking technology. [Source]
▲ You will get the Storm Javelin at roughly 5th level. [Source]

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The Major Factions of Fort Tarsis [Source]
In the world of Anthem, the Freelancers aren’t the only ones who have risen to the challenges of life in the hostile wilds they call home. Several powerful factions operate here, seeking out their own ends and often getting in each other’s way. But inevitably these disparate factions end up in need of the services of the Freelancers. Get to know the major factions to help you prepare to enter the world of Anthem.

THE SENTINELS
The Sentinels are the chief upholders of the law throughout the cities and settlements of Anthem. They believe in justice and order above all else, and see themselves as a bulwark protecting the people from the chaos of the outside world. In the eyes of the Sentinel leadership, the Freelancers are a ragtag outfit whose fierce independence makes them unreliable.

▲ One memeber is Brin, a socially awkward Sentinel who monitors Scar activity outside the fort. [Source]

CORVUS
An extensive network of intelligence agents, spies, and diplomats, Corvus’ main goal is to scout out threats and remove them without direct confrontation. While they are not above having their operatives engage in targeted sabotage or an assassination now and again, they prefer to contract out any of their messier tasks to third-parties, like the Freelancers.

CYPHERS
Cyphers are humans gifted with and rigorously trained in the ability to communicate mentally over long distances, performing complex analytical calculations and processing incredible amounts of information. They serve in support roles to lancers, providing information and analysis during expeditions.

THE ARCANISTS
Scientist-mystics who have dedicated themselves to researching the mysteries of the world of Anthem, the Arcanists research both the natural frontier as well as the technological. Their ultimate goal is to gather, categorize, and preserve the complete knowledge of humanity. Their tireless promotion of knowledge and teaching has been directly or indirectly responsible for much of the technological advancement of this world.

▲ One memeber is Matthias, a dedicated arcanist fascinated by Shaper technology who suffers from a strange affliction. [Source]

Your journey into Anthem will take you through encounters with all of these factions in Fort Tarsis. Making connections with each will help you acquire new missions and contracts to fulfill, rebuilding the renown of the Freelancers.

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Faye Navine
Birth year: 437 LV
Birth Location: Antium
Height/Weight: 5’7” 120 pounds
Role: Cypher
Faction: Freelancer
Quote: “The world is filled with mysteries. Chasing the solutions, that's where the fun is.”

As a cypher with the rare gift of mental communication, Faye has always been intrigued by the Anthem of Creation.

▲ Faye, who has a personal connection to one of the main threads from the critical path. She's your oldest friend with whom you have a lot of history. [Source] [Source]
▲ Faye is a mysterious and work-obsessed cypher who comes from a more prestigious background than Owen - the 'Harvard' of Anthem, according to Rootsaert. Faye has long been fascinated by the Anthem of Creation and is driven to learn more about it. Unfortunately, her personal relationships have suffered as a result, and she carries more than a few secrets with her. [Source]

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NPCs
▲ NPCs will not accompany you on missions. They are more like Advisors from DA:I. [Source] [Source]
▲ “We have NPC quest-givers in Tarsis,” Gamble says. “They’re called Agents, and those agents give you missions. The type of mission an agent will give you is based on a certain type of context. Some will give you context on the Scars, some will give you context on the Sentinels... [Source]
▲ While you will occasionally see and interact with NPC Javelins in the world, this is not what typically happens. However, your Cypher and other NPCs will talk to you throughout missions. So yes to banter, no to NPCs with you. [Source]
▲ No AI Teammates: The nature of traversal and the verticality of the levels puts this out of our abilities ATM. [Source]
▲ Each player gets customized NPC reactions to their SP choices, even in the shared world. So a reaction Player A gets from an NPC might be hostile, but for Player B might be friendly, in that mission. The mission is the same structure, but the flavoring around it will be different based on the choices that you made. [Source]
▲ Due to your SP choices "radio chatter" may differ for different players in the same moment of the same mission. [Source]
▲ As is traditional with BW games, you won't always be in agreement with your crew. There is the potential for conflict. [Source]
▲ BioWare will be using an all-new cast of Voice Actors for Anthem. So no returning VAs from previous games. [Source]


Romances
▲ On Romances:  “There are no romances. There are friendships. Some of the stuff we did with Mass Effect – the Citadel DLC specifically – there was a lot of friendship moments. You and Garrus sitting up, shooting – that kind of stuff, we want to lean into that. The romantic stuff, we’re moving away from that for Anthem.” There is a flirtatious quality to some of the relationships though. [Source] [Source]
▲ Future Romances: The door is not closed for after launch. [Source]


Specific NPCs
▲ Brin, a socially awkward Sentinel who monitors Scar activity outside the fort. [Source]
▲ Matthias, a dedicated arcanist fascinated by Shaper technology who suffers from a strange affliction. [Source]
▲ Yarrow, a retired Freelancer who worries that their traditions and worth are being forgotten. [Source]

i.imgur.com/pIUlWOr.png

Core Game Mechanics

COMBAT
▲ “The encounters are set up for four players,” says lead producer Ben Irving. “That’s where the fun is, and they’re built with that teamwork in mind.” “For the critical path … if you do want to play by yourself, you can,” Gamble says. “We’re not limiting that artificially. But the game itself is built for you and a bunch of friends – because your friends are your companions in this case. That’s the whole point.” [Source] [Source]
▲ The javelins are designed to work together, creating opportunities for each other to shine. If a group of Scars are standing in the water, a lightning blast from the storm can shock them, doing damage and creating some clear shots for the ranger. A colossus may walk into the range of a mine, but with a raised shield to deflect damage and protect the party. [Source]
▲ While combat plays a large role in the game, there can also be non-combat elements during missions. [Source]
▲ You will need to be Online to play. [Source]

COMBO BONUSES
▲ When certain abilities interact, you might get additional bonuses. These combos don’t seem to be as rigidly defined by the primer/detonator distinction we saw in the Mass Effect series. [Source]
▲ “But even yourself, you’re able to pull off some combos. If you’ve frozen something, and then you detonate that with a missile or a melee strike, you’re going to get some cool combo bonuses.” [Source]
▲ Examples of Solo Combos: Freeze + Shock Mace, Lightning + Rail Gun. [Source]

HEALTH RECOVERY
▲ Health recovery is through pick-ups (red health orbs) from enemy kills (and only enemy kills as far as we know), as well a Revive mechanic. [Source] [Source] [Source]
▲ Health Orbs have a weighted chance to drop when you kill or damage some types of enemies. [Source]
▲ You can wait for a team Revive indefinitely, but you can also Respawn at the last resupply point you hit. [Source]
▲ However Respawning is disabled in Boss Arenas. You will have to be Revived there. [Source]
▲ Currently no Death Penalties. Though that may change. [Source]

MISC.
▲ You may enable 'aim assist'. [Source]
▲ A large component of enemy target selection is based on proximity, though there are a number of other factors that can influence it. In general, if you want an enemy to focus on you, stand next to it and shoot it in the face. [Source]
▲ It has been heavily implied that there will be no traditional cover mechanics (outside personal defenses like shields), and no squatting in Anthem, and that combat "encourages mobility". [Source] [Source]
▲ No Friendly Fire (at the moment), but allies may still block bullets' path. [Source] [Source]
▲ No aerial duels with rival Javelins. [Source]
▲ There will be consumables. [Source]

LOOT
There are 6 rarity tiers for loot in Anthem:

     Common
     Uncommon
     Rare
     Epic
     Legendary
     Masterwork (Name TBD)

▲ Loot will be instanced (each individual player receives their own loot drop), so no worries over loot theft. [Source]
▲ Loot Rarity will be similar to Diablo 3. [Source]
▲ You will need to return to Fort Tarsis or your Strider before you can determine the exact content of your randomized loot (like Destiny). This was done to continue to guide the player back the hubs, as well as not wanting players to be distracted by loot mid-mission, or the having idea of modifying their loadouts mid-mission. [Source] [Source] [Source]
▲ At the time you pick up a Loot Drop, it will tell you the rarity and the type of item you'll get. So if you were to kill something and it had a Rare drop, you'll see that: eg. A 'Rare Assault Rifle'. [Source]
▲ After you determine the exact content of your random loot at one of your hubs, you can then immediately go to The Forge to equip it. [Source]
▲ Gear Drops are based on your Freelancer's level. [Source]
▲ Gear will have random rolls for stats. [Source]
▲ Loot locked in Strongholds will have a higher rarity, but (they believe) there is no loot specifically tied to Stongholds. Also, there is loot in chests, but don't require keys. [Source]
▲ One specific kind of loot mentioned were Shaper Runes. [Source]
▲ Cosmetic Loot Drops will likely bias towards the Javelin you are currently wearing (but not exclusively so). [Source]
▲ Different activities are optimal for different kinds of loot. [Source]
▲ There will be Ammo & Loot Drops in the world, and they will drop near the bodies (no searching). [Source] [Source] [Source]
▲ There might be loot found underwater. [Source]
▲ If you are disconnected from the server for any reason (or kicked from your group), you should not lose your Loot Drops or XP. [Source]
▲ Higher Tier Loot that you missed picking up will be mailed to Fort Tarsis for you. [Source]
▲ You (should) not be limited to equipping just one top tier item at a time like in some other games. [Source]
▲ There will be hidden loot, etc. rewarding exploration. [Source]

CRAFTING
▲ Crafting Materials will include Plants (among other things), but not animal parts. [Source]
▲ Crafting Materials can be bought from merchants, but only in small amounts with earned currency. [Source]

STORAGE
▲ There will be a Storage (and?) Vault for your gear. It is not known yet if there will be an inventory limit. [Source]
▲ There will be a storage place for Lore. [Source]

EMOTES
▲ There will be Emotes, and there will very likely be a Dab Emote. [Source] [Source]
▲ You can map at least 4 Emotes. [Source]
▲ Flares are a type of Emote. [Source]

i.imgur.com/bhJHfGi.png

Game Economy
▲ The game has a Premium Currency, but does not have lootboxes (by any name), and no pay-to-win purchases. Strictly towards cosmetic/vanity items. 'Forever'.  You can earn the same cosmetics through gameplay as well. [Source] [Source]
▲ A future payment for new additional content at some point is not ruled out but is not yet detailed (but it won't be via lootboxes or pay-to-win). [Source]
▲ Additional payment is unlikely for additional story content. [Source]
▲ Anthem will not have a monthly subscription. [Source]
▲ There will not be a Season Pass. [Source]
▲ But additional content like a new Javelin might require purchase or might not, too early to say. [Source]
▲ You cannot earn the Legion of Dawn items. [Source]
▲ The Legion of Dawn Javelins will very likely be unlocked at the same time as the other Javelins of the same class. [Source]
▲ The Legion of Dawn Javelins are only cosmetically different from the other Javelins, and won't impact gameplay. [Source]
▲ The Legion of Dawn Weapons should unlock after the tutorial. They are good for that stage of the game, but you will be able to find equivalents in-game. [Source]
▲ There are similar weapons to the Legion of Dawn weapons in the world, they are not overpowered. [Source]
▲ There is an earned in-game currency. [Source]
▲ There are things that can only be bought with in-game (earned) currency (eg. Crafting Materials from Vendors). [Source]
▲ Trading: No trading. At least for now. We needed to ensure we could control balance. [Source]

UPDATED: August 23 - 10:50pm PDT 




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Thanks!

The demo is going to be the big thing for me. If I get to muck around in the game world a bit and you know see how it actually plays/feels then I might buy it. Time will tell.

Sighed up, nothing ventured nothing gained right?

Yes let's hope they do a fully open demo.