Every so often, the world of video games unveils a gem that resonates deeply with players. In recent years, titles like Deadlock, a captivating blend of MOBA and shooter elements, and South of Midnight, which vividly brings to life a unique cultural landscape, have captured attention. Yet, amidst these offerings, there has been a noticeable absence of a fresh MMO experience. Longtime favorites have lost their allure, leaving players yearning for something new. Enter Fellowship, a potential game-changer in the realm of online gaming.
Exploring the World of Fellowship
At Gamescom 2025, I had the opportunity to experience Chief Rebel’s debut title firsthand, stepping away from the familiar confines of Bloodlines 2 to embark on a fantastical journey. Fellowship reimagines the MMO landscape, stripping away the vastness of traditional games like World of Warcraft in favor of a more focused approach centered around streamlined dungeons. The premise is straightforward: complete missions, acquire gear, enhance character abilities, and repeat the cycle.
Dubbed a ‘MODA’ (multiplayer online dungeon adventure), Fellowship draws inspiration from beloved titles such as League of Legends, Dota, and Diablo. Players can choose from a roster of heroes, each fulfilling specific roles, with character builds playing a crucial role in maximizing their effectiveness. It’s a delightful amalgamation of elements from some of the most cherished games in the industry.
As a Priest main in World of Warcraft, I found myself naturally inclined towards Vigour, a luminous scholar whose abilities revolve around both single-target and area-of-effect healing. The pressure mounted quickly, especially when community director Hamish Bode informed me that our mission in the challenging dungeon, Sailor’s Abyss, was no walk in the park. My earlier bravado about my extensive WoW experience began to wane.
Our initial strategy unfolded smoothly: Bode attracted enemy attention, our teammates dealt damage, and I focused on healing. As we progressed and faced larger groups of foes, I started to feel a sense of confidence. However, my optimism was short-lived. The dungeon’s name, ‘Sailor’s Abyss,’ hinted at the challenges ahead. As we approached the formidable boss, Sinthara—a colossal siren-like creature—Bode warned that no one had succeeded in defeating her on their first attempt. Challenge accepted.
The battle commenced with Sinthara showcasing her formidable abilities, including spell interruption and damage amplification through clever mechanics. Yet, it was her Siren’s Song that truly tested our resolve, sending us tumbling off the ship’s edge. A second attempt revealed a clever twist: Bode had secured himself to the ship’s mast, a strategic move that highlighted the game’s unique mechanics.
While Fellowship evokes memories of World of Warcraft, it also incorporates a myriad of other influences. Bode, who previously contributed to Diablo 3, acknowledges the impact of the series on their design. Players can collect gems that offer simple enhancements, which evolve into more complex benefits as they progress. Unlike traditional talent trees, players can acquire abilities in any order, fostering a sense of freedom in character development.
In an interview, Bode elaborated on the game’s design philosophy, emphasizing the blend of elements from MMOs, ARPGs, and MOBAs. Originally conceived as a PvE MOBA, the game has evolved to incorporate ARPG inspirations, resulting in combat that feels more akin to that genre. Players have already begun to experiment with their builds, discovering unexpected synergies and strengths.
Bode expressed enthusiasm for the creative freedom afforded by a PvE environment, noting that the focus is on fun rather than strict balance. “In PvP, overpowered elements can lead to frustration,” he explained. “But in a PvE context, we can embrace the chaos as long as it enhances the enjoyment of the game.” The team is committed to monitoring player feedback and making adjustments as needed to ensure a positive experience for the community.
As with many games of this nature, Fellowship does involve a degree of grinding. Bode showcased an array of character customization options and mounts, including whimsical choices like a bomb-laden rat named ‘Sir Bombastic.’ While some items can be purchased with in-game currency, others require real-world money, similar to the models seen in WoW and Diablo. Unique rewards await those who conquer the game’s increasingly challenging Leagues, culminating in epic boss encounters.
When asked about balancing the grind, Bode emphasized the importance of maintaining a sense of progression without overwhelming players. “We want to offer a power fantasy that feels rewarding without being drawn out and frustrating,” he stated. With personal loot mechanics ensuring players receive tangible rewards after each dungeon, the game aims to create a sense of momentum and achievement.
Accessibility is another key consideration for the development team. Bode highlighted the importance of making the game welcoming to all players, including those with disabilities. The absence of a subscription model and a modest price point of aim to lower financial barriers, making the game more accessible to a broader audience.
For those seeking a fresh experience in the MMO landscape, Fellowship promises to deliver a quick and engaging dungeon raiding experience without the fear of falling behind. It stands as a tribute to both its inspirations and the community it seeks to serve.
Fellowship is set to launch on Thursday, October 16, but an open beta is currently available on Steam, inviting players to dive into this exciting new adventure. Be sure to say hello to Sir Bombastic on your journey!
