Win or Pay? This is how you play in Cambria

Cambria is an online multiplayer game that blends traditional gathering and combat mechanics with a risk-to-earn economy. Built on Ronin, it offers an experience where every decision carries real economic consequences. But is its gameplay, economy, and accessibility viable for new players?

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Gameplay: between RuneScape and competitive PvP

Cambria draws inspiration from classics like RuneScape, featuring gathering professions (mining, woodcutting, fishing), skill-based progression, and a crafting system. However, it adds a core element: risk.

In Duel Arena mode, players engage in 1v1 battles by wagering tokens. The winner takes all.

Open PvP zones offer strategic resource control, constant battles, and rewards for territorial dominance.

The game encourages both economic and combat progression, allowing players to specialize in roles based on their preferences.

According to several players on YouTube and X, Cambria “feels like old-school RuneScape, but with real consequences.” The combat system is simple but strategic enough to create tension in high-stakes matches.

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Economy: real risk, real rewards

Cambria operates on an onchain economy where every resource, action, or win holds tangible value. Season 2 introduced a broader model:

• Royal Charter: An NFT that grants access to rewards and roles like Paymaster (funds active players) or Viceroy (controls zones).
• Liquid rewards: Over $1.5 million in RON and other tokens have been allocated to tournaments and missions.
• Staking and dividends: Those who prefer not to play actively can stake and earn returns based on others' activity.

This financial approach has been well received by users looking to monetize their time, though it has also sparked debates about fairness among players with varying investment levels.

According to data from gam3s.gg, 90% of tokens distributed through events go to active players, aiming to balance access without becoming fully pay-to-win.

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Is it accessible for new players?

Cambria offers a free-to-play mode with limited access to the full experience. To unlock rewards, players must purchase a Royal Charter (~$35 USD) or get sponsorship from a Paymaster.

The learning curve is moderate. There are video guides, explanatory articles, and an active Discord channel to help new users.

Unlike many Web3 games, large investments are not required to start. However, those unfamiliar with wallets or smart contracts may find the initial setup intimidating.

On platforms like X and Reddit, many new players mention that “getting started is easy if you follow the guides,” although they acknowledge that mastering the economy takes time.

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Strengths and areas for improvement

Cambria's highlights

• Classic gameplay adapted to the Web3 model.
• Risk and reward dynamics keep players engaged.
• Diverse roles: play actively, invest, or manage resources.

Limitations

• Access to rewards is locked behind a paid NFT.
• Strategic advantage for higher investors.
• Steep technical curve for users unfamiliar with Web3.

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Is it worth trying?

Players who enjoy games like RuneScape but seek a deeper economic layer may find Cambria an appealing proposition. The free-to-play entry allows exploration without commitment, and the scholarship system provides opportunities even without initial investment.

Try the free version, check out the available guides, and join the community to see if its style and pace align with your interests.