Guardians of Ember was an action-oriented MMORPG developed by Runewaker Entertainment and published by Gameforge. Initially released in December 2016, the game offered players a blend of hack-and-slash mechanics within a dark medieval fantasy setting. Players could choose from four races and six distinct classes, with the option to adopt a secondary class at level 15, allowing for diverse character builds and playstyles.

Gameplay and Features

Set in the tumultuous world of Olyndale, players assumed the role of Guardians, the last bastion against a looming evil threatening the realm. Key features of the game included:

• Dual Class System: At level 15, players could select a secondary class, expanding their skill set and enabling unique combinations of abilities.
• Randomized Dungeons: The game featured over 60 randomized dungeons across 58 regions, each with adjustable difficulty levels, ensuring varied and challenging experiences.
• Player Housing: Players had the opportunity to own and decorate personal homes, adding a personalized touch to their in-game experience.
• PvP Modes: Competitive players could engage in various PvP formats, including 1v1, 3v3, and 5v5 matches in the Arena of Honor.
• Crafting and Enchanting: A robust crafting system allowed players to create and enhance weapons, armor, and other items, adding depth to the gameplay.

Development and Release History

Guardians of Ember entered Steam Early Access in September 2016 under the publishing of InselGames. However, in February 2018, Valve removed the game from Steam due to allegations of review manipulation by the publisher. Subsequently, Gameforge acquired the publishing rights and re-released the game as a free-to-play title in January 2019. Despite these efforts, the game struggled to maintain a substantial player base and was officially shut down on February 14, 2020.

MMOTOP.ORG Review

Guardians of Ember attempted to merge the fast-paced combat of action RPGs with the expansive world and social elements of MMORPGs. The dual class system provided flexibility and encouraged experimentation, while the randomized dungeons offered replayability. However, the game faced criticism for lacking the polish found in other titles within the genre, and its troubled publishing history may have hindered its success. Overall, Guardians of Ember presented an ambitious concept that fell short in execution. We rate it 60 out of 100.

FAQ