How Long Does It Take to Switch Covenants? A Comprehensive Guide

The answer to “How long does it take to switch covenants?” depends heavily on the specific game you’re playing. In games like World of Warcraft, the time required can vary from a few days to a few weeks, contingent on factors like your current Renown level, the game version, and whether you’ve switched covenants recently. Other games with covenant-like systems will have their own, often vastly different, mechanics and timelines. Let’s delve deeper into the factors that influence this process and address common questions.

Understanding Covenant Switching Mechanics

Covenant systems are prevalent in many modern RPGs. They offer players a choice between different factions or allegiances, each with its own unique abilities, rewards, and narrative. While committing to a covenant can be rewarding, the desire to explore different playstyles or align with a different narrative often leads players to switch. However, these systems are usually designed to discourage frequent swapping, often involving time gates and resource requirements.

Factors Influencing Switching Time

Several factors can influence the time it takes to switch covenants:

• Game Mechanics: The most significant factor is the specific game’s design. Some games implement a straightforward switch with minimal requirements, while others impose lengthy quests or reputation grinds.

• Reputation System: Often, switching covenants involves building trust with the new faction. This can require completing quests, participating in specific activities, or farming reputation points.

• Resource Requirements: Some games require players to gather specific resources to prove their commitment to the new covenant. These resources can be time-consuming to acquire.

• Renown or Equivalent System: If the covenant system is tied to a Renown-like system, reaching a certain level with the new covenant is usually a prerequisite. This involves completing activities to earn Renown points, which can take days or weeks.

• Previous Covenant Progress: Your progress with your previous covenant may affect the switching process. Some games penalize frequent switching by imposing longer waiting periods or requiring you to regain lost reputation.

• Game Version or Patch: Game developers often adjust covenant switching mechanics to balance the system. Therefore, the time required to switch can change with each patch.

In-Depth Look: World of Warcraft Covenant Switching

World of Warcraft’s Shadowlands expansion introduced a complex covenant system that provides a relevant example of switching. While mechanics have been altered slightly from patch to patch, the general outline remains the same.

World of Warcraft: The Shadowlands Covenant System

In Shadowlands, players chose from four Covenants: Kyrian, Venthyr, Necrolord, and Night Fae. Each covenant offered unique class abilities, soulbinds, and cosmetic rewards. However, switching covenants initially involved a lengthy process that required earning the trust of the new covenant through a series of quests and proving loyalty by gathering resources.

The Evolution of Switching in Shadowlands

Early in Shadowlands, switching covenants was a significant undertaking, often taking weeks to fully reintegrate into the new covenant. Subsequent patches introduced catch-up mechanics and reduced the penalties for switching, making it easier for players to experiment with different covenants.

Current Status in Dragonflight

With the release of the Dragonflight expansion, the Shadowlands covenant system has been significantly streamlined. While covenants are still selectable, the restrictions on switching have been largely removed. This makes the process much faster and more accessible for players who wish to change their allegiance. However, it should be noted that any benefits, titles, or transmogs acquired from any Covenant while playing during Shadowlands are still kept. The game currently does not allow the player to “forget” a covenant choice made during the Shadowlands expansion.

General Tips for Efficient Covenant Switching

No matter the game, there are some universal tips to help expedite the covenant switching process:

• Research the Requirements: Before initiating a switch, thoroughly research the requirements for the new covenant. This will help you prepare and gather any necessary resources or complete any prerequisites.

• Focus on Reputation Grinding: If reputation is a factor, prioritize activities that award reputation with the new covenant. Use reputation-boosting items or events whenever possible.

• Optimize Resource Gathering: If resource gathering is required, identify the most efficient methods for acquiring the necessary materials. This might involve farming specific areas, completing certain quests, or trading with other players.

• Take Advantage of Catch-Up Mechanics: Many games introduce catch-up mechanics to help players quickly level up with new covenants or factions. Take advantage of these mechanics to accelerate your progress.

• Plan Your Switch: Avoid switching covenants impulsively. Consider the long-term implications of your decision and ensure that the new covenant aligns with your goals and playstyle.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What happens to my progress in my current covenant when I switch? The fate of your progress varies by game. Usually, your progress is saved, allowing you to return to the original covenant later. However, you might lose access to abilities or rewards until you rejoin.

2. Can I switch back to my previous covenant easily? Again, this depends on the game. Some games allow free and instant switching, while others impose waiting periods or penalties for frequent changes. Check the specific game mechanics for details.

3. Are there any penalties for switching covenants too often? Some games penalize frequent covenant switching with longer waiting periods, reduced reputation gains, or loss of progress.

4. Does my character level affect the time it takes to switch covenants? Generally, your character level doesn’t directly affect the switching time. However, higher-level characters may have access to more efficient methods for completing quests or gathering resources.

5. Can I switch covenants with my friends? Whether you can switch covenants with your friends depends on the game. Some games encourage players to align with the same faction, while others allow players to choose different covenants without affecting their ability to play together.

6. What are the benefits of switching covenants? The benefits of switching include access to new abilities, rewards, storylines, and playstyles. It allows players to customize their character to fit different roles or preferences.

7. How do I know which covenant is right for me? Research each covenant’s abilities, rewards, and playstyle to determine which one best aligns with your goals and preferences. Consider your character’s role (e.g., tank, healer, DPS) and choose a covenant that complements your playstyle.

8. Are there any resources available to help me switch covenants? Many online guides, forums, and communities provide information and tips on how to switch covenants efficiently. Consult these resources for specific advice related to your game.

9. Can I switch covenants during combat? Generally, you cannot switch covenants during combat. The process usually requires you to be in a safe location and interact with a specific NPC or item.

10. Does the game have any catch-up mechanics for new covenants? Most games with covenant systems implement catch-up mechanics to help new or returning players quickly level up. These mechanics might include increased reputation gains, bonus experience, or accelerated resource gathering.

11. Is it possible to switch covenants multiple times? Yes, it’s generally possible to switch covenants multiple times, but doing so might incur penalties or require significant effort. Consider your choices carefully before switching frequently.

12. How do I start the process of switching covenants? The process of switching covenants usually involves visiting a specific NPC or completing a questline. Consult the game’s documentation or online guides for specific instructions.

13. What happens to my soulbinds when I switch covenants (WoW Specific)? Soulbinds are covenant-specific, so upon switching, you will lose access to your current soulbind and be required to choose a new one from your new covenant. Any invested resources will also be lost, so make sure the rewards outweigh the effort.

14. Are there any professions tied to covenants? Some games might have professions or crafting recipes that are tied to specific covenants. Switching covenants might affect your access to these professions or recipes. Check the game’s documentation for details.

15. Is covenant switching something that can be reverted? Yes, in most cases, covenant switching can be reverted. You can typically return to your previous covenant if you change your mind, although there might be a waiting period or a process to regain their trust. Always consult the game’s documentation for specific instructions.

Understanding the mechanics of covenant switching in your specific game is crucial for making informed decisions and minimizing the time and effort required. By researching the requirements, optimizing your activities, and taking advantage of catch-up mechanics, you can efficiently navigate the covenant system and enjoy the full range of experiences it offers.