In Brighter Shores, one of the most important moments in your adventure comes when you choose between three distinct factions: Cryoknight, Guardian, or Hammermage. This decision does not only affect your gameplay style, but also your overall experience! So, let’s go over all the details you need to help you make an informed choice.
How to Choose Your Faction
Your journey to faction alignment begins in Hopeforest, where you will receive a quest called “Nullify the Corruption”. Follow the quest steps, rescue a Dryad, explore the area, and eventually arrive at the Magic Cave. Here, you will make your permanent decision by infusing yourself with one of three elemental magics: Cryonae, Arborae, or Tempestae.
Heads up! This choice is permanent. The game does not allow you to reverse this decision, so take a moment to make sure you pick the faction that works best with your playstyle.
The Factions – What Are Your Options?
Each faction is tied to elemental magic within a rock-paper-scissors-style triangle similar to other element-type games: one is strong against another and weak against the third.
Here is a closer look at what each faction offers:
Cryoknight – Frostbound Warriors
- Overview: Melee-focused masters of Cryonae magic, who imbue their weapons with frost to exploit enemy weaknesses.
- Gear: Heavy metal armor, ideal for classic knight aesthetics, and access to weapons like swords, battleaxes, and rapiers. Cryoknights also have a higher chance of finding frost-infused gear.
- Profession: Focus on Blacksmithing to craft and improve your items.
- Elemental Strengths: Strong against Arborae (Guardian magic) but weak to Tempestae (Hammermage magic).
Guardian – Champions of Nature
- Overview: Guardians channel Arborae magic to imbue their weapons with nature’s power, offering a druidic playstyle with a focus on ranged combat.
- Gear: Bone armor for a primal, earthy look, and weapons like quarterstaffs, spears, and javelins. Arborae-specific gear drops more frequently for this faction.
- Profession: Specialize in Bonewright to craft nature-inspired gear.
- Elemental Strengths: Arborae counters Tempestae but is vulnerable to Cryonae.
Hammermage – Storm-Wielding Hybrids
- Overview: Hammermages use Tempestae lightning magic to deliver a powerful mix of melee combat and magical abilities, making them a versatile choice.
- Gear: Stone armor, with its distinctive, rugged appearance, and a focus on hammers and maces. Tempestae gear is more accessible for this faction.
- Profession: Focus on Stonemasonry to craft gear that complements your role.
- Elemental Strengths: Tempestae overpowers Cryonae but is less effective against Arborae.
Tips for Choosing Your Path
While all three factions are well-balanced, your choice should reflect your preferred gameplay style and aesthetic. However, there is no “wrong” choice. You can even use gear infused with other elements (for example, a Cryoknight can use Tempestae weapons), but sticking to your main element is usually the way to go! Here are some additional considerations:
- Armor Aesthetics:
- Cryoknight: Polished metal armor for a classic knightly look.
- Guardian: Bone armor that looks more like a primal, nature-based aesthetic.
- Hammermage: Stone armor that stands out with its unique and bold design.
- Gameplay Style:
- Cryoknight: Melee combat.
- Guardian: Range and nature vibes.
- Hammermage: Lightning-infused chaos hybrids.
Choosing between Cryoknight, Guardian, or Hammermage in Brighter Shores is more than just a gameplay decision because it is a defining moment of your character’s journey. However, in the end, the best choice comes down to what feels most in line with your preferred combat style and visual preferences. Either way, every faction offers a unique experience. So take your time, weigh the options, and remember that your adventure is just beginning.