The faction you choose has a big impact on your gameplay. After selecting one, you cannot join a different faction for the next 120 days, and you are restricted to joining companies – guilds, essentially – that match your faction. If you opt-in to New World PvP, you can be attacked by players of rival factions while outside safe areas.
You can also represent your faction in Wars, 50v50 PvP battles, over control of a settlement. The winner gets to be in charge of the settlement’s development and tax rates, and also receives buffs in the local area. So, there are plenty of reasons to pledge your allegiance – but how do you decide on your New World faction?
In order to pick a faction, you must complete a series of beginner quests. After speaking to each of the three faction representatives in your local settlement and completing their introductory quests, you can then choose one to join.
Yes, you can change your faction in New World. However, you cannot change to the faction that holds the most territory, and you can only change once every 120 days – still a substantial commitment, but a little less daunting than being locked in forever.
The factions in New World are:
Marauders are a ‘ruthless military force’ who seek to use their strength to obtain freedom. If you’re looking to flex your muscles and strongarm your way to the top, Marauders is the place for you.
The Covenant are a ‘fanatical order’ on a mission to cleanse the land of impurities and heretics and restore justice. If you enjoy being holier-than-thou and smiting sinners, Covenant is the team to join.
The Syndicate is a ‘secretive organisation of boundless guile and intellect’ – if you prefer skulking around obtaining secrets behind everyone’s backs, you’re in good company with them.
You’re now ready to make the big decision – best of luck in your adventuring in Aeternum. If you’re in need of more guidance, we’ve got a guide to the best New World weapons – and if you’re planning on teaming up, here’s how to play with friends in New World.
