Noob – The Factionless is a new RPG from Microids that throws players head first into the MMORPG sub-culture, where people are dedicated to spend days, weeks, and even months of their time on a single game. The game follows a group of newbies aspiring to achieve the highest level in the popular (fictional) MMORPG, Horizon, before a new update is released. While the concept of switching between the real world and in-game avatars adds an interesting twist, it doesn’t significantly enhance the gameplay experience unless you appeciate the meta-references like we did. In a way, that makes Noob a bit like the Neptunia titles – we checked out the PlayStation 4 version.
Throughout the game, players will encounter a plethora of pop culture references and nods to other video games, showing the game’s self-awareness within the RPG genre. Visually, it combines colorful, attractive graphics with a low-poly style reminiscent of classic RPGs like earlier Dragon Quest and Pokemon titles. However, it does suffer from repetitive environment and enemy designs – and while that can be regarded as a reference to many RPG games we wish there had been some more diversity there.
The gameplay involves exploring various regions with occasional settlements, though most areas are relatively small and straightforward, hiding chests and items. While dungeons present a bit more challenge, they don’t offer significant complexity. The lack of item carry limits removes any sense of risk or failure, making progress fairly easy – though we’re certainly not going to complain about the lack of a cumbersome inventory management system.
Combat follows the typical turn-based system, with the squad taking turns to attack or defend. While some party members can provide buffs or inflict negative statuses on enemies, the combat lacks depth and becomes repetitive as players figure out efficient strategies. Even encounters with stronger enemies can be overcome without much difficulty, thanks to the abundance of items and credits – this is a ‘tactics lite’ type of affair.
The game features side quests, but they often involve mundane tasks like fetch quests or defeating a certain number of enemies. Again, something that can be seen as a reference to generic side quest design, but worth mentioning. The rewards for completing these quests are underwhelming as well, due to the game’s generous distribution of drops and resources.
Character progression involves leveling up, and each character has a skill tree to enhance their abilities, offering some basic strategy during battles. One character in particular stands out for her unique ability to use customizable cards for various effects, making her a valuable asset to the squad. Beyond combat and exploration, players can engage in activities such as fishing, crafting, and cooking through the jobs system. These activities are relatively straightforward, but some have some nice rewards attached to them, like the beastmaster job that gives you access to mounts.
The game’s overall presentation is decent, but it feels unambitious in terms of gameplay. It provides a familiar RPG experience that may appeal to newcomers to the genre, but its repetitive and predictable nature might disappoint the more experienced RPG players who would actually appreciate all the meta references. Despite having over 50 hours of gameplay, the slow and formulaic pace, coupled with the lack of challenge, makes it difficult to wholeheartedly recommend Noob – The Factionless unless you’re looking for something lighthearted and fun to pass the time with.
In summary, “Noob – The Factionless” offers nice graphics and attractive visuals, typical RPG elements and staples, and a lengthy gameplay experience. However, it also has some drawbacks, including uninteresting and repetitive side quests, an overabundance of resources that removes difficulty, and relative lack of innovation in gameplay. It’s certainly not a bad game, but it’s a specific type of game for a specific type of audience.
Score: 6.5/10
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