AlthoughAFK JourneyandAFK Arenaare two RPGs from the same fantasy universe of Esperia, there are quite a lot of differences between the two. Some coredifferences betweenAFK JourneyandAFK Arenarelate to their game mechanics, particularly with combat. While they have their similarities,AFK Journeyis more of a fantasy RPG with auto-battle and idle mechanics. This system enables players to participate in more complex battles, plus experiment with a range of combat strategies and party compositions. Combat variety is also made possible throughAFK Journey’s expanding roster of characters, with the introduction of the latest heroes, Alsa and Soren, in the Song of Strife update.
In a recent interview, Game Rant spoke with Silver, lead art designer onAFK Journey, to learn more about Song of Strife’s combat mechanic improvements, including Alsa and Soren’s skills on the battlefield.
Song Of Strife Combat And Knockback Mechanics In AFK Journey
Those who’ve playedAFK Journeysince launch may likely already have their preferred character and party preferences. However, Song of Strife introduced more combat possibilities and combinations through Alsa and Soren. Anyone still on the fence about whether or not to pull Alsa or Soren may find Silver’s comments helpful, describing them as two characters who “compliment” and “play off” one another. While someAFK Journeycharactersalready have Knockback capabilities, Silver said Soren takes this to a “new level.” As Silver explained,
Both of his skills as well as his ult have the ability to create space between enemies and himself/his allies, and as a rogue, he is nimble and quick on the battlefield. His skills complement our other new character, Alsa, really nicely.
WithAFK Journey’s Alsa, players might want to utilize her versatility and various barrier abilities, including rock barriers. As Silver described her,
She can create barriers around herself as well as her enemies, trapping them or blocking melee enemies from attacking. She can also quickly evade enemies after taking too much damage, making her really versatile in combat. If Alsa creates a rock barrier, Soren can knock enemies into the barrier using his skills, stunning the enemy.
Party Composition And Unique Mechanics In AFK Journey
For anyone struggling withparty composition inAFK Journey, Silver mentioned players should ensure Mages, Support, and Long-Range characters at the rear of the battleground, with Tanks and Warriors up front. Silver also offered some other handy advice and examples:
I would recommend that new players take time to study each hero’s moveset, and visualizing how a certain hero could complement their current line-up. For instance, I really like having Cecia in my party because she can summon Mr. Carlyle, who is essentially a sixth hero in battle. At the same time, I usually verify Rowan is nearby so he can use his ult to provide a ton of energy, which ensures that Cecia can keep Mr. Carlyle healthy and on the battlefield.
Silver also mentioned players can earn rewards while they are away through “unique AFK mechanics” which let them accumulate “a treasure trove of rewards to use toward leveling, purchasing crafting items, guild rewards, etc.” Silver added how, altogether, players have options to playAFK Journeyhow they want:
We also want to give players the flexibility to play what they want to play - if they want to skip some of the story elements or the various other modes and just concentrate on leveling up onAFK, they’re free to do so. We want to ensure all our modes reward the player while simultaneously working in harmony.
WHERE TO PLAY
Step into Esperia, a fantasy world full of magic—a lone seed of life meandering among the sea of stars. And on Esperia, it took root. As the river of time flowed, the once all-powerful gods fell. As the seed grew, each branch sprouted leaves, which became the races of Esperia.
You will play as the legendary mage Merlin and experience strategically tactical battles. It’s time to dive into an unexplored world and embark on a journey to unlock a hidden mystery together with the heroes of Esperia.
ANYWHERE YOU GO, MAGIC FOLLOWS - Remember, only you can guide heroes to pull the sword from the stone and learn the truth about the world.
