Several months after announcing the delay of Act 1 content, Bioware has finally released the Cataclysm which was one of the final major content updates that were announced as part of Anthem‘s post-launch plans. Cataclysms are themed, season-long events that offer unique rewards and challenges for its duration, and they will leave Bastion changed when they end.
The Cataclysm can be accessed by anyone at any level, there is no level requirements. Accessing the new area is as simple as choosing the “Cataclysm” option in the Game Modes menu. Arenas are scattered throughout the map and they offer opportunities to find temporary shelter from the cataclysm storm that will damage your javelin as long as you’re out in it. In Arenas, players will complete tasks, increase available mission time, and engage in combat for loot, in-game currency, and scoring opportunities. Players only have a limited amount of time in the Cataclysm. While in it, players will earn points from taking out enemies, gathering items, and completing puzzles and objectives. There are also inversions which are modifiers applied by the game that change how you will play the game. Inversions will change from week to week throughout the duration of the Cataclysm.
New in-game currency will be available for players to collect during the Cataclysm season. Major Crystals are awarded as mission and challenge rewards. Minor Crystals are earned by playing and can be used to purchase Major Crystals and buy War Chests and vanity items. During the Cataclysm, players will have access to new powerful Masterwork and Legendary melee items, support gear, weapons and more. An additional melee slot is available allowing players more freedom to adjust their load-outs. New enemies are also coming to the game. These include Bristlebacks, Dominion Crystal Troopers and a powerful group called Valkyries who are led by Vara who has taken up the mantle after the defeat of the Monitor.
Three unique story missions will be and available in this new update. “Tip of the Spear” introduces players to Grandmaster Adams who has concerns about a connection between the Dominion and a growing Shaper storm. The second mission has players trying to capture an old enemy who may have answers and the final mission has players trying to stop the Cataclysm.