Shaiya 11/29/2020

The formula for MMORPGs that World of Warcraft has established has permeated the scene, to the point where it's overflowing and relatively stagnant. Very few MMORPGs have tried to mix it up, with many sharing a very similar combat system and gameplay loop as WoW. However, there are a few MMOs out there that try to mix up some part of it. Shaiya does this by introducing an incredibly interesting mode where you gain power at the cost of permadeath.

To install Shaiya, simply run the executable and you're good to go.

The character creation is very basic - all you can do is pick your faction, class, and name. There are no other options. After you create your character, you can choose to play on basic or Ultimate mode. This is crucial because ultimate mode will make your character significantly more powerful. You get 2 more stat points and 1 more skill point per level than in basic mode. However, if you die and aren't revived within 3 minutes, you will lose your character forever.

Unfortunately, the core gameplay is fairly lackluster. It's very straightforward question and grinding much like many other korean MMORPGs. There is also a design problem in combat where there is a dodge feature, but most magical abilities will track the player, rendering it pointless and making it incredibly difficult for melee classes to get in.

If you fancy a high risk high reward playstyle, then you should give Shaiya a shot. It's unique, but it doesn't do much different otherwise.