It would seem that 2021 is quickly becoming the ‘Year of the Bard’. With the versatile virtuoso becoming the latest class to join the eclectic Trove roster, it’s now the turn of the DnD MMORPG itself, Neverwinter. You may wonder why it took so long, but the important thing is that players can now enjoy playing as the Neverwinter Bard from today. All thanks to the release of the 21st module, Jewel of the North.

The latest major update from Cryptic Studios also brings with it some major quality of life improvements, including a new streamlined levelling system. Here are the key features to enjoy:

The Neverwinter Bard

The new Bard class is inspired by its multi-skilled DnD 5e counterpart. The sword-wielding soloist can both deal damage or buff their allies with their inspiring repertoire. Two Paragon Paths are available with the new class, including:

  • Songblade - The suave swashbuckler whose damage-dealing capabilities stem from their blade and music. These Bards are ideal mid-range damage dealers who can bolster their attacks with magic.

  • Minstrel - The true-blue musician whose legendary refrains can inspire their allies from afar. Best used as healers, their music can also create some psychic attacks and illusions.

Streamlined Levelling System

To complement the long-awaited addition of the iconic Bard, Neverwinter is also adopting the tabletop originator’s levelling system. The max level cap will now revert from 80 to 20, which makes it far easier for all to experience the wealth of adventures available.

A new Adventures feature provides an intuitive way to play by tracking progress and earning rewards. Now it is much easier for adventurers to see what should be explored next as they journey through the Forgotten Realms.

Major Quality of Life Improvements

As you would expect with an update of this scale, some quality of life improvements are also on the cards. These include the following:

  • Two New Locations - The Adventurer’s Guild and the Training Room. Meet up, train, claim rewards and hone your skills in these two new hubs for adventurers.

  • Revamped Tutorials - With added messaging and visuals to improve the initial experience for greenhorns.

Neverember Recruitment Event

Any new characters who log in during the Neverember Recruitment Event will be able to earn extra rewards, including rare mounts and companions. Neverember Incentives will also provide account-wide rewards.

With so much in store for brand new players, it looks like the Jewel of the North update is beckoning in newbies in particular. So if you’ve yet to give Neverwinter a spin, we’d say that now looks like the perfect time.

The Jewel of the North is available now on PC and will arrive on PlayStation4 and Xbox One later next month.

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