Wednesday, September 30, 2009
Cabal Board License
The Board License is available after performing a separate quest, and allows you to equip and use an Astral Board. Astral Boards can be obtained via rare drop from certain high-level monsters, or by buying in the CABAL Online Cash Shop. You need to have completed the Board License quest in order to use the Astral Board item dropped by monsters. If you purchase the board from the Cash Shop, you do not need to have the license to use it.
Blader build guide of Cabal
Here is blader build guide.If you have just started playing Cabal and are planning on playing a blader, then this is the portion you should read.
1~10: Pure questing, aiming for growth lvl and extra stats go for next tier of armor.
Skills~ Target apprentice asap, once apprentice is reached ( due to grinding or so ) focus on equipement/cash grinding which shouldn't take long.
- skills you use at this point are reasonably useless.
10~20: Same as above, try and put any extra stats at 1/3 int and 2/3 dex.
20~30: Grinding is still rare, yet you should find decent gear through these lvls. Same as the previous lvl, keeping your mind on your growth lvl.
30~40: Make sure you have full +3 skill exp gear ( includes amulets/Rings/armor/weapons ) money spent at this point isn't a waste, you earn loads at higher lvls. Any low/med upgrade cores for aramid/shadowsteel/... tier should be used on your adept since you will be using this for some time.
- You should have reached mid-high regular here.
40~50: Make sure you have your growth lvl. Extra stats go dex completely. Armor should be getting up to +3/4 full, and weapons to at least +5. Make sure that through these lvls you make the expert rank ( 51-52 is acceptable ).Grinding is off the essence.
Save up all your crafting required items. You will need it later on.
50~55: Lvl up your crafting to full 100% in all, sell your pink items for 35-40k each, which should sell FAST. ( open up a shop and restock every 20 minutes ). Grind on port lux mobs and hold all discs/cartridges you find for future crafting/trading for other materials.
Money should be flying in, so stop focusing on that, and break up all your bluestin for materials.
55~60: Make the growth goal, put rest in dex. Make sure you hit high expert, lvl up your self buffs ( after getting fighting skills to 9 ) unlearn all skills you don't use. Start saving up some money for a.expert skills.
- Avoid pvp for now, test your combos on some friends nonetheless, you'll need to master comboing for the future.
60~65: Lvling shouldn't get to hard, pump your str ~ dex on a 1-3 ratio. Find the fastest AoE mob you can find without taking to high damage and save up materials. Save up cores for titanium armor. You should have a cape by now, if not, don't worry, your iron skin covers your hp and defence. You should hit a.expert around 64-65 if you grind enough.
65~70: Stop pumping into str when you have about 195 of it, and put remainder in dex. Skills should be on a.expert, raise them to 40 when you reach 70 and you should be ok. Get some force absorb rings + force regen amulet for pvping, get a strong +2-3 titanium set ( if slotted use force cores for HP implementation on armor ~ boots, use crit damage on swords ~ random lvl 2 on helmet ~ random lvl 2 on gloves. ) Start going for bluestin crafting, sell each pink piece for around 350-400k, hold purple ones for yourself or your guild, you don't want these in other's hands, the faster you hit master, the better, so slowing others down wont hurt you.
70~75: Pump str to 210-15 and put the rest in dex, master swords should cover to titanium +5 suit. Ranking magic should cover katanas. Get better equipement, and raise your skills to master~a.master and focus on comboing.
1~10: Pure questing, aiming for growth lvl and extra stats go for next tier of armor.
Skills~ Target apprentice asap, once apprentice is reached ( due to grinding or so ) focus on equipement/cash grinding which shouldn't take long.
- skills you use at this point are reasonably useless.
10~20: Same as above, try and put any extra stats at 1/3 int and 2/3 dex.
20~30: Grinding is still rare, yet you should find decent gear through these lvls. Same as the previous lvl, keeping your mind on your growth lvl.
30~40: Make sure you have full +3 skill exp gear ( includes amulets/Rings/armor/weapons ) money spent at this point isn't a waste, you earn loads at higher lvls. Any low/med upgrade cores for aramid/shadowsteel/... tier should be used on your adept since you will be using this for some time.
- You should have reached mid-high regular here.
40~50: Make sure you have your growth lvl. Extra stats go dex completely. Armor should be getting up to +3/4 full, and weapons to at least +5. Make sure that through these lvls you make the expert rank ( 51-52 is acceptable ).Grinding is off the essence.
Save up all your crafting required items. You will need it later on.
50~55: Lvl up your crafting to full 100% in all, sell your pink items for 35-40k each, which should sell FAST. ( open up a shop and restock every 20 minutes ). Grind on port lux mobs and hold all discs/cartridges you find for future crafting/trading for other materials.
Money should be flying in, so stop focusing on that, and break up all your bluestin for materials.
55~60: Make the growth goal, put rest in dex. Make sure you hit high expert, lvl up your self buffs ( after getting fighting skills to 9 ) unlearn all skills you don't use. Start saving up some money for a.expert skills.
- Avoid pvp for now, test your combos on some friends nonetheless, you'll need to master comboing for the future.
60~65: Lvling shouldn't get to hard, pump your str ~ dex on a 1-3 ratio. Find the fastest AoE mob you can find without taking to high damage and save up materials. Save up cores for titanium armor. You should have a cape by now, if not, don't worry, your iron skin covers your hp and defence. You should hit a.expert around 64-65 if you grind enough.
65~70: Stop pumping into str when you have about 195 of it, and put remainder in dex. Skills should be on a.expert, raise them to 40 when you reach 70 and you should be ok. Get some force absorb rings + force regen amulet for pvping, get a strong +2-3 titanium set ( if slotted use force cores for HP implementation on armor ~ boots, use crit damage on swords ~ random lvl 2 on helmet ~ random lvl 2 on gloves. ) Start going for bluestin crafting, sell each pink piece for around 350-400k, hold purple ones for yourself or your guild, you don't want these in other's hands, the faster you hit master, the better, so slowing others down wont hurt you.
70~75: Pump str to 210-15 and put the rest in dex, master swords should cover to titanium +5 suit. Ranking magic should cover katanas. Get better equipement, and raise your skills to master~a.master and focus on comboing.
Cabal Blader PVP PVE Overview
Player vs. Environment (PvE)
# Bladers are an excellent and comparatively easy class for Player vs. Environment (PvE). Bladers have very little defensive ability, so caution should be taken to avoid long periods of fighting. Bladers rely on evasion for their main defense and have a number of skills that damage multiple targets. This makes fighting multiple weaker mobs a much more effective strategy than fighting one strong mob. When entering a new area, try pulling two mobs at the same time. If you do not take too much damage before killing both, try moving up to three or four mobs at a time. If you can go beyond five mobs at a time, you should probably move to a higher level area.
Player vs. Player (PvP)
# The key to winning a fight against another player with a Blader is to close in and kill him as quickly as possible. Do not use the multi-target attacks against one target, they are too wasteful to use for the amount of damage those skills inflict. Vital Interference, Stab & Slash, and Rising Shot interfere with the target's ability to fight, and should be used frequently against other players. Be sure to use Iron Skin and Aura Barrier to improve defenses a bit. The same basic strategy applies against any class. If you are taking more damage than your target, use Fade Step and Dash to get away.
# Bladers are an excellent and comparatively easy class for Player vs. Environment (PvE). Bladers have very little defensive ability, so caution should be taken to avoid long periods of fighting. Bladers rely on evasion for their main defense and have a number of skills that damage multiple targets. This makes fighting multiple weaker mobs a much more effective strategy than fighting one strong mob. When entering a new area, try pulling two mobs at the same time. If you do not take too much damage before killing both, try moving up to three or four mobs at a time. If you can go beyond five mobs at a time, you should probably move to a higher level area.
Player vs. Player (PvP)
# The key to winning a fight against another player with a Blader is to close in and kill him as quickly as possible. Do not use the multi-target attacks against one target, they are too wasteful to use for the amount of damage those skills inflict. Vital Interference, Stab & Slash, and Rising Shot interfere with the target's ability to fight, and should be used frequently against other players. Be sure to use Iron Skin and Aura Barrier to improve defenses a bit. The same basic strategy applies against any class. If you are taking more damage than your target, use Fade Step and Dash to get away.
Cabal Blader: STR or DEX?
Cabal Bladers have been dubbed as dual purpose killing machines, having the ability to both be good in PVP as well as PVE. This means that they can withstand one on one combat against other players and at the same time go head to head with mobs in dungeons and maps.
With this in mind, several players have created a myth about Bladers concerning stat distribution. It has already been a practice in Cabal that a Blader who prefers PVP should invest in a higher Str for higher attack and defense while one who enjoys killing mobs is to have a higher Dex for higher defense rate.
Throughout my gaming experience as a Cabal Blader, I have spent millions of alz (Cabal's in-game currency) buying extract potions as per advice of my friends and guildmates to "fix" my character's statistics. I have changed back and forth from being a so-called Dex-type to Str-type for countless times.
On my personal experience, I have proven that there is no difference whether you have a higher Dex or a higher Str.
First, take note of this Stat Distribution Variablity Table:
Based on the table, you can easily notice and realize that the attribute given is the same whatever statistic distribution you prefer. However, this will not be applicable for a Blader who, for whatever reason, actually decides to invest on Int (please DO NOT ever do this if you are a Blader).
As per the case of wearing an armor set against a martial set, it is best that one merely meets the requirement for the set.
As an example, here are my current stats at Level 144:
Str: 520
Int: 64
Dex: 550
With those stats, I can wear both the armor set and martial set (although I still need 3 stat points for my Int to use a +7 mithril blade or katana). It is also more than enough to withstand mobs and win PVPs. Obviously, it is because Str and Dex give the same attribute whichever way you put them.
Misconceptions are created by players themselves. Therefore, only players can clear them up and perhaps break a few myths surrounding the game.
Cabal Classes Overview
There’s no such thing as Ultimate Pwning Character in Cabal Online. It’s best to choose the character based on your personal preferences. Each classes has their own specialty in Nation War or Mission War. In PVP battle, you’ve got to have strategy and study which skills will work best against your opponent. Know the weakness of your opponent.
For me, I have both Blader and Archer character. But my favorite is Blader since I like to do mobbing and I prefer faster attack skills since I’m very impatient and like to kill everything in one sitting.
warrior
Warrior: Destructive Melee Class
High HP and Highest attack Damage of all classes. Despite having great damage, their casting skill is a slow but it’s not a disadvantage though. Their skills can knock down opponents that they’ll just lie still like barbie doll awaiting their deaths. In nation wars imagine a single warrior knocking down 4-5 opponents, amazing!
PVP: Higher HP level makes it hard for opponent to make a dent on your lifebar. But then again, the warrior attacks skills are a bit slow but still deals great damage. The opponents have to rely on their wits before their HP runs out.
Weapon & Armor: Great Sword & Daikatana, Armor Set
Warrior Skills: http://www.cabalwiki.com/wiki/Warrior_Skills
wizard
Wizard: Ultimate Destroyer
Not only they can cause destructive damage, they can even provide buff to partymates that makes faster SP recovery and HP regen. Their blink ability makes it easy for them to dodge enemy’s attacks. Also Their Battle Skill enables them to float mid-air while attacking. Their Badass looking attack skill Space Collapse enables them to duplicate into four while attacking, dealing great damage.
PVP: In addition to destructive damage, the wizards have buffs with fast HP regeneration. The blink skill enables them to escape from the enemy’s attack.
Weapon & Armor: Orb, Martial Suit
Wizard’s Skills: http://www.cabalwiki.com/wiki/Wizard
shielder
Force Shielder: Ultimate Tanker Class.
Their ability to absorb damage and Shadow Shield party buff makes them a formidable Allies. They can be also considered as a hybrid of Warrior and Wizard. They have the option to be INT based shielder or ST based build. Their Battle skill Shield Storm envelopes them with lightning and deals damage to area around it.
PVP: Force Shielder buffs have damage absorb that also makes them immune to damage. Despite having high defense skills, their damage isn’t deadly compared to Warrior and Wizard.
Weapon & Armor: Blade & Crystal, Armor set
Force Shielder Skills: http://www.cabalwiki.com/wiki/Force_Shielder_Skills
blader
Blader: Fastest Killer and artful dodger.
The Blader can take down as many mobs as it can with it’s high defense and dodging skills. There’s vital interference skill to stun enemy for 5 seconds but the skill has 70% success rate. Bladers also have buff skills specially made for PVP that increases defense rate and attack rate. Their Battle Skill gives them Astral Class that enables them to attack in lightning fast rate and deal critical damage.
Weapon & Armor: Blade & Katana, Martial Suit
Blader Skills: http://www.cabalwiki.com/wiki/Blader_Skills
force blader
Force Blader: The most Versatile Class.
Their wide arsenal of debuffs, long range and melee attacks make them the versatile class. Their Field of Execration stuns multiple enemies for 10 seconds enables them to effortlessly kill mobs as well as asset to Nation wars. Their Battle skill enables them to throw their sword like boomerang.
Weapon & Armor: Katana & Crystal, Battle set
PVP: Touted as the PVP god, the force bladers got so many tricks up in their sleeves. They’ve got the execration skill which makes the opponent unable to move for 20 seconds. Their manafreeze skill makes the opponent loses their ability to use their skills. Not to mention several debuffs in store for you before the PVP starts.
Force Blader Skills: http://www.cabalwiki.com/wiki/Force_Blader_Skills
archer
Force Archer: Healing Class.
Also considered as the cleric class since they have the ability to heal partymates and provide additional buffs as well. It’s best to keep distance from mob since it doesn’t have the dodging skills like the blader has. Their Battle Mode makes them wield guns instead of Astral bow. While in battle mode, you can choose two target and shoot regardless what the direction of the enemy is.
Weapon & Armor: Crystal, Battle set
PVP: At first glance, the Force Archer may be in a bit of disadvantage when it comes to PVP. Their damage isn’t as deadly like those of the wizards and have low HP to boot. They have to rely on tactics and strategy when it comes to PVP. It’s best to keep distance from the opponent and use fade step.
Force Archer Skills: http://www.cabalwiki.com/wiki/Force_Archer_Skills
For me, I have both Blader and Archer character. But my favorite is Blader since I like to do mobbing and I prefer faster attack skills since I’m very impatient and like to kill everything in one sitting.
warrior
Warrior: Destructive Melee Class
High HP and Highest attack Damage of all classes. Despite having great damage, their casting skill is a slow but it’s not a disadvantage though. Their skills can knock down opponents that they’ll just lie still like barbie doll awaiting their deaths. In nation wars imagine a single warrior knocking down 4-5 opponents, amazing!
PVP: Higher HP level makes it hard for opponent to make a dent on your lifebar. But then again, the warrior attacks skills are a bit slow but still deals great damage. The opponents have to rely on their wits before their HP runs out.
Weapon & Armor: Great Sword & Daikatana, Armor Set
Warrior Skills: http://www.cabalwiki.com/wiki/Warrior_Skills
wizard
Wizard: Ultimate Destroyer
Not only they can cause destructive damage, they can even provide buff to partymates that makes faster SP recovery and HP regen. Their blink ability makes it easy for them to dodge enemy’s attacks. Also Their Battle Skill enables them to float mid-air while attacking. Their Badass looking attack skill Space Collapse enables them to duplicate into four while attacking, dealing great damage.
PVP: In addition to destructive damage, the wizards have buffs with fast HP regeneration. The blink skill enables them to escape from the enemy’s attack.
Weapon & Armor: Orb, Martial Suit
Wizard’s Skills: http://www.cabalwiki.com/wiki/Wizard
shielder
Force Shielder: Ultimate Tanker Class.
Their ability to absorb damage and Shadow Shield party buff makes them a formidable Allies. They can be also considered as a hybrid of Warrior and Wizard. They have the option to be INT based shielder or ST based build. Their Battle skill Shield Storm envelopes them with lightning and deals damage to area around it.
PVP: Force Shielder buffs have damage absorb that also makes them immune to damage. Despite having high defense skills, their damage isn’t deadly compared to Warrior and Wizard.
Weapon & Armor: Blade & Crystal, Armor set
Force Shielder Skills: http://www.cabalwiki.com/wiki/Force_Shielder_Skills
blader
Blader: Fastest Killer and artful dodger.
The Blader can take down as many mobs as it can with it’s high defense and dodging skills. There’s vital interference skill to stun enemy for 5 seconds but the skill has 70% success rate. Bladers also have buff skills specially made for PVP that increases defense rate and attack rate. Their Battle Skill gives them Astral Class that enables them to attack in lightning fast rate and deal critical damage.
Weapon & Armor: Blade & Katana, Martial Suit
Blader Skills: http://www.cabalwiki.com/wiki/Blader_Skills
force blader
Force Blader: The most Versatile Class.
Their wide arsenal of debuffs, long range and melee attacks make them the versatile class. Their Field of Execration stuns multiple enemies for 10 seconds enables them to effortlessly kill mobs as well as asset to Nation wars. Their Battle skill enables them to throw their sword like boomerang.
Weapon & Armor: Katana & Crystal, Battle set
PVP: Touted as the PVP god, the force bladers got so many tricks up in their sleeves. They’ve got the execration skill which makes the opponent unable to move for 20 seconds. Their manafreeze skill makes the opponent loses their ability to use their skills. Not to mention several debuffs in store for you before the PVP starts.
Force Blader Skills: http://www.cabalwiki.com/wiki/Force_Blader_Skills
archer
Force Archer: Healing Class.
Also considered as the cleric class since they have the ability to heal partymates and provide additional buffs as well. It’s best to keep distance from mob since it doesn’t have the dodging skills like the blader has. Their Battle Mode makes them wield guns instead of Astral bow. While in battle mode, you can choose two target and shoot regardless what the direction of the enemy is.
Weapon & Armor: Crystal, Battle set
PVP: At first glance, the Force Archer may be in a bit of disadvantage when it comes to PVP. Their damage isn’t as deadly like those of the wizards and have low HP to boot. They have to rely on tactics and strategy when it comes to PVP. It’s best to keep distance from the opponent and use fade step.
Force Archer Skills: http://www.cabalwiki.com/wiki/Force_Archer_Skills
Friday, September 25, 2009
Cabal Online Intro
Cabal Online is an action MMORPG game, set in a 3rd person view perspective, which emulates console action gaming. The game's name derives from Kabbalah (a word that has numerous spelling variations), the mystical interpretation of the Hebrew scripture, and which originally meant either an occult doctrine or a secret. It was introduced into English in the publication of Cabala, a curious medley of letters and papers of the reigns of James and Charles I.
The game has been recently launched in North America.
Episode 2 - The War Begins, signals the beginning of the next chapter in CABAL’s development, unveiling a host of new features and content updates, which are set to re-affirm CABAL Online’s position as one of the best free-to-play games on the market.
Based in the turbulent world of Nevareth, a land devastated by the effects of war and mythical evil forces, Episode 2 sees the continuation of the CABAL Online story, as players find themselves at the centre of an epic battle for political supremacy. With the discovery of Tierra Gloriosa, a land vital in the struggle for the dominance of Nevareth, the battle between the Capella and Proycon forces enters a new and decisive stage, with the history of the realm firmly in players hands. Through a daily two hour battle, in the region of Tierra Gloriosa, players from each nation will need to display the skills of courage, leadership, organisation and determination, in order to defeat their fellow players and win the national war. With only one nation able to leave the battlefield victorious, the rivalry is set to reach fever pitch, as the winning faction claims not only supremacy, but also those all important rewards which follow it.
Alongside the new war system, Episode 2 will introduce new maps, monsters, six new skills and an increase to the level cap, creating brand new challenges and opportunities for the citizens of CABAL. Adding to the already huge amount of free content, the new update will provide:
• New War System: Tierra Glorisosa - In this new region of CABAL Online, players from the two nations will engage in battle in the new war system. With towers to capture, quests to complete and most importantly enemies to kill, only one nation can emerge victorious. The new system will allow up to two hundred players from each faction to face each other in the war map. Players will fight daily for a period of two hours, receiving points for kills and completing tasks, with the team with the most points winning the honours. Prizes include both rewards for the winning nation, in the form of increased experience for members of the nation, and personal rewards for those who participate.
• Increased Level Cap - For those players uninterested by the player-versus player battles, new challenges lay ahead as the cap is increased by twenty levels to 170.
• New regions: Pontus Ferrum - Through the dangerous portal players will be able to enter the new realm of Pontus Ferrum, a land full of dangerous and deadly foes. Only for the bravest and strongest of soles.
• Brand new quests - A large number of new quests and storylines for users to engage themselves in.
http://www.cabalglobal.com/default.aspx?wbs=1.0
http://www.gameborder.com/store/Cabal+Online/
The game has been recently launched in North America.
Episode 2 - The War Begins, signals the beginning of the next chapter in CABAL’s development, unveiling a host of new features and content updates, which are set to re-affirm CABAL Online’s position as one of the best free-to-play games on the market.
Based in the turbulent world of Nevareth, a land devastated by the effects of war and mythical evil forces, Episode 2 sees the continuation of the CABAL Online story, as players find themselves at the centre of an epic battle for political supremacy. With the discovery of Tierra Gloriosa, a land vital in the struggle for the dominance of Nevareth, the battle between the Capella and Proycon forces enters a new and decisive stage, with the history of the realm firmly in players hands. Through a daily two hour battle, in the region of Tierra Gloriosa, players from each nation will need to display the skills of courage, leadership, organisation and determination, in order to defeat their fellow players and win the national war. With only one nation able to leave the battlefield victorious, the rivalry is set to reach fever pitch, as the winning faction claims not only supremacy, but also those all important rewards which follow it.
Alongside the new war system, Episode 2 will introduce new maps, monsters, six new skills and an increase to the level cap, creating brand new challenges and opportunities for the citizens of CABAL. Adding to the already huge amount of free content, the new update will provide:
• New War System: Tierra Glorisosa - In this new region of CABAL Online, players from the two nations will engage in battle in the new war system. With towers to capture, quests to complete and most importantly enemies to kill, only one nation can emerge victorious. The new system will allow up to two hundred players from each faction to face each other in the war map. Players will fight daily for a period of two hours, receiving points for kills and completing tasks, with the team with the most points winning the honours. Prizes include both rewards for the winning nation, in the form of increased experience for members of the nation, and personal rewards for those who participate.
• Increased Level Cap - For those players uninterested by the player-versus player battles, new challenges lay ahead as the cap is increased by twenty levels to 170.
• New regions: Pontus Ferrum - Through the dangerous portal players will be able to enter the new realm of Pontus Ferrum, a land full of dangerous and deadly foes. Only for the bravest and strongest of soles.
• Brand new quests - A large number of new quests and storylines for users to engage themselves in.
http://www.cabalglobal.com/default.aspx?wbs=1.0
http://www.gameborder.com/store/Cabal+Online/
Runes of Magic Housing
Home Sweet Home
If you’re sweaty, covered in blood and dirt and your armor has taken quite a beating, many a hero hopes to withdraw back into his own home to get some rest.
This is exactly what you will find in Runes of Magic! Your own home is available to you from the very beginning, and you can enter it for the first time in Logar.
Setting up your interior is fairly simple: Just buy the items, “drag&drop” them into one of the available slots, click the button to place it and that’s it. You can turn, spin and move and place the object freely.
Decorate as you wish: taste variations
Currently there are over 130 available interior items -with more to come- giving players many different options to decorate their home..
A Variety of tables, chairs, rugs, fireplaces, beds, wall decorations, room-dividers… the range of possibilities allows individual design for anyone’s tastes!
The (treasure)chest: item storage
Of course Runes of Magic offers a bank in every large city.
But since humankind has always been hunters and gatherers, players have access to their own chests as well, in which they can store all their precious treasures.
The first of those chests has 20 slots and can –like everything else- be freely placed within your home.
More chests can be bought and placed at anytime, of course!
The players’ new clothes: the mannequin
Everybody knows mannequins and hardly anyone has walked past shop windows without gawking at the clothing they are dressed in.
In Runes of Magic players can put such mannequins in their houses: There are male ones and female ones and of course you can put several of them in your home.
With one click the equipment screen appears where the players can dress up the mannequin with their own armor.
That does not only look great but also has an additional advantage.
If you are in a hurry and want to dress up for the next raid, with one click you can exchange the armor you are currently wearing with that which is on the mannequin.
Crafting sites: from blacksmith to alchemist
Everybody knows the problem. You just collected all the materials necessary for the next few armor sets and you are standing at one of the forges in the city when other players come by to ask: “Hi. You are a blacksmith, right? Please craft this-or-that item for me.”
Those who would rather quietly practice their profession can just put the necessary crafting sites in their house. There are anvils for blacksmiths, laboratories for alchemists or huge pots for chefs. For each profession the right equipment is available.
My home is my castle: expansion
In the near future it will become possible to expand your home.
More floors, bigger rooms, attics, closets, as with all the features of Runes of Magic, the possibilities are nearly endless.
Click me: interaction with surrounding objects
Mannequins are not the only things that can be used with a short click.
Also the flames in the fireplace and on the candlestick can be lit and give the house a homely atmosphere.
The future: more ideas
Every three months a free add-on with fresh content for Runes of Magic will be published.
That includes pieces of furniture and other additions for the house.
It will be fascinating to see what will happen here!
The Runes of Magic community is highly important to us and for new creative ideas we like to pick the players brains.
So, your visit to the forums, which are there for that purpose, is highly welcome.
If you’re sweaty, covered in blood and dirt and your armor has taken quite a beating, many a hero hopes to withdraw back into his own home to get some rest.
This is exactly what you will find in Runes of Magic! Your own home is available to you from the very beginning, and you can enter it for the first time in Logar.
Setting up your interior is fairly simple: Just buy the items, “drag&drop” them into one of the available slots, click the button to place it and that’s it. You can turn, spin and move and place the object freely.
Decorate as you wish: taste variations
Currently there are over 130 available interior items -with more to come- giving players many different options to decorate their home..
A Variety of tables, chairs, rugs, fireplaces, beds, wall decorations, room-dividers… the range of possibilities allows individual design for anyone’s tastes!
The (treasure)chest: item storage
Of course Runes of Magic offers a bank in every large city.
But since humankind has always been hunters and gatherers, players have access to their own chests as well, in which they can store all their precious treasures.
The first of those chests has 20 slots and can –like everything else- be freely placed within your home.
More chests can be bought and placed at anytime, of course!
The players’ new clothes: the mannequin
Everybody knows mannequins and hardly anyone has walked past shop windows without gawking at the clothing they are dressed in.
In Runes of Magic players can put such mannequins in their houses: There are male ones and female ones and of course you can put several of them in your home.
With one click the equipment screen appears where the players can dress up the mannequin with their own armor.
That does not only look great but also has an additional advantage.
If you are in a hurry and want to dress up for the next raid, with one click you can exchange the armor you are currently wearing with that which is on the mannequin.
Crafting sites: from blacksmith to alchemist
Everybody knows the problem. You just collected all the materials necessary for the next few armor sets and you are standing at one of the forges in the city when other players come by to ask: “Hi. You are a blacksmith, right? Please craft this-or-that item for me.”
Those who would rather quietly practice their profession can just put the necessary crafting sites in their house. There are anvils for blacksmiths, laboratories for alchemists or huge pots for chefs. For each profession the right equipment is available.
My home is my castle: expansion
In the near future it will become possible to expand your home.
More floors, bigger rooms, attics, closets, as with all the features of Runes of Magic, the possibilities are nearly endless.
Click me: interaction with surrounding objects
Mannequins are not the only things that can be used with a short click.
Also the flames in the fireplace and on the candlestick can be lit and give the house a homely atmosphere.
The future: more ideas
Every three months a free add-on with fresh content for Runes of Magic will be published.
That includes pieces of furniture and other additions for the house.
It will be fascinating to see what will happen here!
The Runes of Magic community is highly important to us and for new creative ideas we like to pick the players brains.
So, your visit to the forums, which are there for that purpose, is highly welcome.
Runes of Magic Duel Class System
Dual class system
When starting into a new career, adventurers can select to be a warrior, ranger, cleric, knight, mage or rogue. When they reach level 10, they can add a secondary class, which augments the possible class combinations up to 30 individual combination types.
Generally, all classes in Runes of Magic can serve as primary or secondary class. To switch between them, players have to visit a special class trainer e.g. in the town of Varanas located in the starting region. At any time players have full access to the complete level-based skill set of their active primary class. Simultaneously only the "non-specific" skills of their secondary class are available.
Moreover the character attributes of the secondary class add up to those of their primary class with 10 percent of their value. Contrary, all experience, attribute and talent points gathered from the adventures accumulate exclusively to the active primary class. Therefore, only the skills of the primary class can be upgraded by distribution of talent points. In any case, the level of the secondary class can not surmount the level of the primary profession. To level up their secondary class, players have to register it as their primary class with any class trainer.
Tactical Options
Using the dual class system of Runes of Magic wisely, players can build up their characters as multi-functional all-rounders. With a scout as secondary class, characters can use bows for example. With rogues as secondary they can use projectile weapons, warriors will give you axes. Combinations like melee fighters enhanced with several range combat skills as well as clerics that fight with axes become possible. The range of possibilities gives solo and group players many interesting tactical choices for PvE. RPG players will love the broad spectrum for character interpretation.
The skills of the six main classes make use of different energy types. Warriors use rage, scouts use focus, rogues need energy and mages, clerics and knights are fighting with mana. Players can apply those energy types independently from each other. Therefore, they can use the dual class system of Runes of Magic to build up dangerous specialists perfectly suited for group play also. For example, smart PC adventurers could create a mighty bombardier with the combination of scout and mage. If for example the character runs out of focus, he simply switches to mana and can immediately launch the skills of his secondary mage class. In contrast to that, a combined knight-warrior class will be the ultimate melee fighter. But players need to be careful with some combinations: mages and clerics use the same mana pool which can quickly dry out your resources.
http://www.runesofmagic.com/en/classes,dualclasssystem,en.html
When starting into a new career, adventurers can select to be a warrior, ranger, cleric, knight, mage or rogue. When they reach level 10, they can add a secondary class, which augments the possible class combinations up to 30 individual combination types.
Generally, all classes in Runes of Magic can serve as primary or secondary class. To switch between them, players have to visit a special class trainer e.g. in the town of Varanas located in the starting region. At any time players have full access to the complete level-based skill set of their active primary class. Simultaneously only the "non-specific" skills of their secondary class are available.
Moreover the character attributes of the secondary class add up to those of their primary class with 10 percent of their value. Contrary, all experience, attribute and talent points gathered from the adventures accumulate exclusively to the active primary class. Therefore, only the skills of the primary class can be upgraded by distribution of talent points. In any case, the level of the secondary class can not surmount the level of the primary profession. To level up their secondary class, players have to register it as their primary class with any class trainer.
Tactical Options
Using the dual class system of Runes of Magic wisely, players can build up their characters as multi-functional all-rounders. With a scout as secondary class, characters can use bows for example. With rogues as secondary they can use projectile weapons, warriors will give you axes. Combinations like melee fighters enhanced with several range combat skills as well as clerics that fight with axes become possible. The range of possibilities gives solo and group players many interesting tactical choices for PvE. RPG players will love the broad spectrum for character interpretation.
The skills of the six main classes make use of different energy types. Warriors use rage, scouts use focus, rogues need energy and mages, clerics and knights are fighting with mana. Players can apply those energy types independently from each other. Therefore, they can use the dual class system of Runes of Magic to build up dangerous specialists perfectly suited for group play also. For example, smart PC adventurers could create a mighty bombardier with the combination of scout and mage. If for example the character runs out of focus, he simply switches to mana and can immediately launch the skills of his secondary mage class. In contrast to that, a combined knight-warrior class will be the ultimate melee fighter. But players need to be careful with some combinations: mages and clerics use the same mana pool which can quickly dry out your resources.
http://www.runesofmagic.com/en/classes,dualclasssystem,en.html
Atlantica Online Review
http://mmohub.org/game/atlantica-online/
"Atlantica Online" is a free-to-play strategy MMORPG. Players can explore and fight in locations around the world, ranging from Feudal Japan to Depression-era Detroit.
The game features unique turn-based party combat, like a console RPG." Players can recruit NPCs to fight with you, including heroes from myths and legends all over the globe!
Many MMO gamers consider "Atlantica" to be one of the best MMORPGs on the Internet -- free or retail. If you haven't tried it yet, it's a must-try game for every MMO player.
“Atlantica Online” is a new MMORPG developed by NDOORS. Unlike other MMORPGs, “Atlantica” is turn-based, and players control a party composed of their hero and NPC mercenaries. Combat is performed like a console RPG, with opposing sides taking turns performing their actions, which include basic attacks, usage of skills, usage of items, guarding, and retreating.
Players can select from one of 9 classes when starting out, and mercenaries of all class types can also be recruited, with the exception of the two newest classes, musician and power saw. Players will be better than mercenaries, however, as they have access to special player-only skills.
The game takes place on an alternate earth, and various timelines intertwine, forcing historical, mythological, and legendary figures to co-exist. Players will journey in locations as different as feudal Japan and 20th century Detroit, and battle through dungeons along the way.
Guilds are an important aspect of the game, as they control the persistent world. Player guilds can own towns, declare war, and complete quests to increase their notoriety.
“Atlantica” is free-to-play with optional premium content. Players can enjoy the game for free, but premium content will allow for quicker leveling, easier access to unique mercenaries and equipment, and items such as special mounts.
Years from now when free-to-play MMOs are the norm, and after dozens of Western developers have entered the arena, two games will be largely responsible for the paradigm shift that made it all happen: Frogster’s “Runes of Magic,” and NDOORS’s “Atlantica Online.”
“Atlantica” is, arguably, the first high-quality free-to-play MMO. Were there good ones before it? Yes, but before “Atlantica,” free-to-play almost always meant sub-par compared to retail titles; and if you didn’t pay, you were at a distinct disadvantage, or limited in some way. “Atlantica,” though, changed that. Instead of being “Lineage Clone #10923,” “Atlantica” broke the mold, mixing the tactical strategy and MMORPG genres in a new, “Final Fantasy Tactics”-like game.
Players start off by creating their character, choosing from a wide variety of classes. Classes include things you’d expect—like swordsman and archer—and things you wouldn’t—like musician, power saw, and cannon. Each class excels at a specific area, making the strategy for each entirely unique. For example, the swordsman class specializes in one on one physical combat. Meanwhile, the gunner specializes in ranged combat vs multiple foes, and can attack three enemies in a single line. Many classes have different areas and methods of attack; some attack in columns, some attack horizontal rows, some attack single targets, and others do splash damage around a target.
But what makes “Atlantica” so unique is that, even though you have your main character, you can still play with the other classes. Your hero, unlike other games, is never alone; you take with you a team of mercenaries. These mercenaries are only slightly worse than a player class of the same type (players will get a player-only skill for each), and they use the same equipment. What that means is that, not only do you always have multiple classes to use, but you also have a use for all sorts of gear. Get melee armor and have an archer? No worries, give it to your melee mercenary.
Starting out, mercenaries are generic, and named after the class they represent. As you and they level up, though, they can upgrade, you can recruit better ones, and eventually you can even recruit hero units. Most of these heroes will be names readily familiar to anyone playing. Want to have a party with Pocahontas and Napoleon? In “Atlantica” you can.
Since it’s a tactical RPG, combat is different than what most would be used to when playing MMORPGs. Instead of being realtime with timed attacks, the game takes turns between attacking and defending parties. Your units will all get action points, and performing skills, spells, attacks, and moving will require a certain amount. Each turn also is limited by a timer, which increases as you become more familiar with your foe via your bestiary knowledge. This means that, even though the game is turn-based, battles are very hectic as you have only seconds to pull off your moves, and you’ll have to plan strategies and your method of attack constantly, so that you don’t waste precious seconds deciding what to do next.
Another big element of “Atlantica” is crafting. There are dozens of crafting schools available; everything from pants to paper. To craft, you need to acquire the materials needed (after learning the skill from a guildmate or NPC), and then put them together. Rather than sit around waiting for a bar to move, you complete the items by gathering crafting points through battles. So, even if you’re crafting hundreds of healing potions, to craft them you’ll need to beat stuff up.
Guilds also play a big role in the game, as you can share crafting exp with your guild, control towns, and more. Towns also have guild quests available, and completing them will help increase your guild’s notoriety.
In a lot of ways, “Atlantica” is familiar. You have quests, a linear progression of areas to visit and monsters to kill, regular upgrading of equipment, and new abilities unlocked at regular intervals. In other ways, though, it’s something entirely its own. People say this about a lot of games, and it’s usually an exaggeration, but in this case it’s true: there is no other game out there like this game. In a few years, though, you can bet there will be plenty of copies. So why not get in on the original while it’s still largely unknown?
Review Brendon Lindsey
September 18, 2009
Regnum
"Regnum Online" proves the existence of time travel. At least, that's the only explanation I can give for developer and publisher NGD Studios releasing an MMO better suited for the late 90s in today's market. And no, this isn't one of those timeless beauties.
This is standard MMO stuff. Players start out as a weak adult character and slowly level their way up to a point where rodents no longer inflict crippling blows. Along the way to the level cap quests are completed, points are applied to customize battle prowess, and thousands of animals are farmed for precious experience points. Like I said, standard stuff.
In our original write-up for "Regnum," the previous reviewer said the title "looks and plays similarly to the pay-to-play MMORPG 'Dark Age of Camelot.'" I can't support that claim, as I've never played "DAoC," but this comparison litters "Regnum" online discussions, so it must be true ... right?
I'm told the biggest similarity between the two titles is the realm-based warfare, where three factions composed of varying races fight against each other. It's also supposedly the biggest draw of both MMOs, according to numerous reviews, comments, and in-game discussions I've personally viewed. If that's the case, then why the heck did NGD place the shining jewel so far out of reach of the casual player?
I didn't reach the realm vs realm part of the game. I'd have to hit at least level 37 to do so, but to really enjoy it I'd need to hit 50, according to the advice of over a dozen high level players. Truthfully, between the moment I was assigned this review and when this review copy goes live, I didn't reach level 37, let alone 50. In a way, I'm relieved. I strongly disliked every second I spent in this virtual world.
"Regnum's" a visually appalling piece of work. With the graphics cranked to their highest, characters are still composed of the most basic flat-surfaced shapes with nary a hint of artistic inspiration. To no surprise, they all run, attack, walk, and bow with equivalent artistic grace. I've seen second quarter budding game designers churn out more inspired and effective content than this. "Everquest" didn't have better visuals when Sony released it in early 1999, but it's not far behind.
The sparse and basic sound design also contributes to the time travel theory of mine, as does the music. At one time, the midi instrumentation used throughout this soundtrack may have been the best electronic substitutes for real world instruments available to a consumer. They didn't sound like the real thing, but they were the closest you could get on a budget. Now, the advancements in music technology fool even the most trained audio engineers, making the old, digital-sounding crap significantly less delightful. It's really a shame for NPG, as "Regnum's" score stands out as a moderately bright beacon in the dark haze of mediocrity.
One reviewer on another site noted the combat in "Regnum" is "slower" and "more tactical" than what's offered in similar titles. This person is wrong. Combat pace doesn't necessarily dictate level of strategy, and, if anything, combat vs NPCs feels more basic here than usual, due in large part to the brain dead A.I. I frequently ran into battle and alt-tabbed out of the program to do something else while my warrior auto-attacked enemies. I imagine PvP combat requires a bit more thinking, but nothing more than what we're now used to; the combat mechanics work like nearly every other MMO.
And therein lies the biggest problem. Aside from the original story and music, everything in "Regnum's" been done before, and better, in both free-to-play and subscription titles. With better options available, why spend your leisure time in a virtual world designed by a gaming company who took Prince's famous lyrics "party like it's 1999" a little too seriously?
Review Kyle Stallock
September 16, 2009
http://mmohub.org/game/regnum-online/
Lost Chaos Review
“Last Chaos” utilizes many of the same features found in “Lineage 2”—such as the “click-and-wait” combat style and the pet-to-mount advancement system—and while they have been noticeably improved, they are still at the core the exact same features with a shiny new coat of paint.
That’s all well and good. Steal a few concepts that have been proven to work in the past, update them, and you’ve got yourself a recipe for a decent MMOPG. The problem in “Last Chaos” is that they stopped there. They added little in the way of innovation, and didn’t steal enough to make a full game. As such, the character customization is rubbish, consisting of one race (Human), and six samey “been there, done that” classes (Titan, Knight, Sorcerer, Mage, Rogue and Healer) that have locked genders and a massive three different face and hair styles each. The PvP is boring, involving little more than dueling other players because they look too much like you, as there are no castle sieges, or intelligent clan war systems whatsoever. And aside from a few auto-acquired quests, the sole purpose of the game seems to revolve around killing enemy NPC after enemy NPC to grab a few new skills and the next set or shiny new armor.
Honestly, I’m of the impression that a Saturday afternoon spent skinny-dipping in a pool of stomach acid would be more interesting (and less painful) than playing more than a few hours grinding in “Last Chaos.” But that’s just my opinion, really, and for those of you that enjoy grind-gaming, “Last Chaos” might just be the answer to your prayers.
The Exciting Range of Aggressive Battle System, or E.R.A.S for short, allows players to attack multiple enemies at once that are caught in the swing range of a weapon. It’s a small addition, really, but when combined with the amazing graphics and fantastic animations add a good amount of immersion to the overall effect. Sure makes grinding easier when you can hit more than one thing at a time.
On the whole, “Last Chaos” is a mixed bag. It feels vastly dated from a gameplay standpoint; provides little in the way of innovation and original concept; uses the archaic click-to-move system, has limited skills, character advancement, and enemy variety; and it lags quite a lot. But it’s really, really pretty, and it’s completely free to play. Check it out if you have the time and don’t mind massive grinding, but the graphics alone probably aren’t worth the reasonably large download.
EXPANSIONS
“Last Chaos” has only recently released its first game expansion, and while it does add a great amount of new content, it really feels more like a large update than a full-blown expansion. It is, of course, free, and that’s always great. The new features include:
* A new market system that allows players to sell their items without having to stay online all night
* Extreme Cube Party System: Grab a party of adventurers and work together to fend off waves of enemies
* Two New Dungeons. Enter the mysterious depths of the Ebony Mines in Juno, or brave the perilous passages of Misty Canyon located in Merac
* New Skills! Level 100- 120 skills have been added. Find the Skill Books and master the ancient techniques of your class
* Level Cap increased to 140.
Review Brendon Lindsey
August 5, 2009
http://mmohub.org/game/last-chaos/
That’s all well and good. Steal a few concepts that have been proven to work in the past, update them, and you’ve got yourself a recipe for a decent MMOPG. The problem in “Last Chaos” is that they stopped there. They added little in the way of innovation, and didn’t steal enough to make a full game. As such, the character customization is rubbish, consisting of one race (Human), and six samey “been there, done that” classes (Titan, Knight, Sorcerer, Mage, Rogue and Healer) that have locked genders and a massive three different face and hair styles each. The PvP is boring, involving little more than dueling other players because they look too much like you, as there are no castle sieges, or intelligent clan war systems whatsoever. And aside from a few auto-acquired quests, the sole purpose of the game seems to revolve around killing enemy NPC after enemy NPC to grab a few new skills and the next set or shiny new armor.
Honestly, I’m of the impression that a Saturday afternoon spent skinny-dipping in a pool of stomach acid would be more interesting (and less painful) than playing more than a few hours grinding in “Last Chaos.” But that’s just my opinion, really, and for those of you that enjoy grind-gaming, “Last Chaos” might just be the answer to your prayers.
The Exciting Range of Aggressive Battle System, or E.R.A.S for short, allows players to attack multiple enemies at once that are caught in the swing range of a weapon. It’s a small addition, really, but when combined with the amazing graphics and fantastic animations add a good amount of immersion to the overall effect. Sure makes grinding easier when you can hit more than one thing at a time.
On the whole, “Last Chaos” is a mixed bag. It feels vastly dated from a gameplay standpoint; provides little in the way of innovation and original concept; uses the archaic click-to-move system, has limited skills, character advancement, and enemy variety; and it lags quite a lot. But it’s really, really pretty, and it’s completely free to play. Check it out if you have the time and don’t mind massive grinding, but the graphics alone probably aren’t worth the reasonably large download.
EXPANSIONS
“Last Chaos” has only recently released its first game expansion, and while it does add a great amount of new content, it really feels more like a large update than a full-blown expansion. It is, of course, free, and that’s always great. The new features include:
* A new market system that allows players to sell their items without having to stay online all night
* Extreme Cube Party System: Grab a party of adventurers and work together to fend off waves of enemies
* Two New Dungeons. Enter the mysterious depths of the Ebony Mines in Juno, or brave the perilous passages of Misty Canyon located in Merac
* New Skills! Level 100- 120 skills have been added. Find the Skill Books and master the ancient techniques of your class
* Level Cap increased to 140.
Review Brendon Lindsey
August 5, 2009
http://mmohub.org/game/last-chaos/
MMOHUB Sho Online Review
“Sho Online” is an ambitious Korean MMORPG that many will find similar to Mythic’s “Warhammer Online.” Its sprawling Asian fantasy world has its roots in both Chinese history and the mythical world of Taoism. In “Sho Online,” players are affiliated with one of two warring kingdoms: the Yin dynasty, adherents to a shattered great power, or the Zhou dynasty, upstart rebels looking to overthrow the established order. The fight for control of the realm echoes throughout all aspects of a player’s career.
“Sho Online’s” gameplay should feel very natural to most MMORPG gamers. Movement, camera control, attacks and spells are all accomplished through the genre-standard key combinations made famous by titles like “World of Warcraft.” Player characters begin in their faction’s stronghold and, through a series of quests, venture out into the expansive game world to kill specified creatures and retrieve necessary items. Slight additions to the tried and true formula, such as a regenerating Chi Shield reminiscent of first-person shooter force fields, help set “Sho Online” apart, but in most respects the game sinks immediately into a familiar, though not unwelcome, groove.
Character creation is a shortcoming for “Sho Online,” as there are only three classes -- Warrior, Assassin, and Soolsa (a spellcaster) -- available to the starting player. Though each class can specialize further into two separate career paths, the lack of diversity in character classes is disappointing. The fact that each of the six careers have to wait until level 65 of a possible 80 to claim the ‘Ultimate Skill’ that makes them truly unique also cuts down on the variety. Customization during the game is much more involved. In addition to upgrading spells and abilities, at each new level the player can choose to increase a number of ‘body skills,” including resistances, attack and defense. Early leveling is refreshingly speedy, so a new player will be able to build a more specialized character right out of the gate.
Adventuring in “Sho Online” is exciting, if often repetitive. The world is well-designed, with interesting topography and a lush Chinese aesthetic. Though the graphics are just under the curve for a game in this genre, the art does a great job conveying the setting. The creatures are varied, ranging from humble frogs and birds to ravenous undead and demons. Moreover, multiple monster species populate each zone, so the player isn’t stuck fighting one enemy group for ten levels. Travel between zones is instantaneous, but this doesn’t seem to shrink the world at all; the sheer abundance and variety of locales is one of the game’s strongest features.
Combat is simple, streamlined, and effective. The speed at which spells and skills resolve is especially well suited to the controls and style, allowing for strategy while still forcing the player to think quickly. The item system is another positive aspect of “Sho Online.” Characters will quickly assemble a sizeable collection of magic items. Special weapons and armor pieces drop frequently, and each has its own individual bonuses. The system will feel familiar to fans of the “Diablo” series, who will once again get to hunt down components of item sets and agonize over which statistics to improve.
Since the storyline of “Sho Online” focuses on the war between Yin and Zhou, it should come as no surprise that PvP is an important aspect of the game. Players from opposing factions are always permitted to engage one another, but the real meat of “Sho Online’s” realm-versus-realm system is the war. This event activates whenever one side manages to kill a special governor NPC fighting for the other realm. From there, it’s a straight-on, head-to-head brawl. War impacts the player’s experience in a number of ways. Most of the contested territories are home to high-level monsters and valuable loot, so exerting control over the land allows victorious players to claim greater rewards. On the individual level, having a high PvP rank allows you to buy and use exclusive items. As you advance, you’ll be able to help your team out with new strategies and abilities. An item called War Plate transforms your character into a giant siege engine, amplifying your destructive potential. The end-game bosses drop items that enable more impressive transformations into soaring eagles and two-headed snakes.
In many ways, “Sho Online” has the foundation for a sweeping realm-versus-realm MMO. PvP combat changes the shape of the landscape, and each character, no matter how inexperienced, can contribute to the war effort. Unfortunately, the broken translation gets in the way of comprehension, and it’s hard to get fired up about a war you can’t understand. The inadequate translation also makes questing less rewarding, which may upset committed solo players or PvE enthusiasts. Aside from temporary events and a rudimentary crafting system, there aren’t many ways to get involved with the central conflict save actual participation. For the aspiring General, though, “Sho Online” provides frequent in-game rewards and many opportunities to conquer a world of myth and legend. Playing “Sho Online” requires more than a little patience, but those who come to the experience willing to work around its rough edges may find themselves growing very comfortable on the battlefield.
Review Josh Harrison
September 18, 2009
http://mmohub.org/game/sho-online/
“Sho Online’s” gameplay should feel very natural to most MMORPG gamers. Movement, camera control, attacks and spells are all accomplished through the genre-standard key combinations made famous by titles like “World of Warcraft.” Player characters begin in their faction’s stronghold and, through a series of quests, venture out into the expansive game world to kill specified creatures and retrieve necessary items. Slight additions to the tried and true formula, such as a regenerating Chi Shield reminiscent of first-person shooter force fields, help set “Sho Online” apart, but in most respects the game sinks immediately into a familiar, though not unwelcome, groove.
Character creation is a shortcoming for “Sho Online,” as there are only three classes -- Warrior, Assassin, and Soolsa (a spellcaster) -- available to the starting player. Though each class can specialize further into two separate career paths, the lack of diversity in character classes is disappointing. The fact that each of the six careers have to wait until level 65 of a possible 80 to claim the ‘Ultimate Skill’ that makes them truly unique also cuts down on the variety. Customization during the game is much more involved. In addition to upgrading spells and abilities, at each new level the player can choose to increase a number of ‘body skills,” including resistances, attack and defense. Early leveling is refreshingly speedy, so a new player will be able to build a more specialized character right out of the gate.
Adventuring in “Sho Online” is exciting, if often repetitive. The world is well-designed, with interesting topography and a lush Chinese aesthetic. Though the graphics are just under the curve for a game in this genre, the art does a great job conveying the setting. The creatures are varied, ranging from humble frogs and birds to ravenous undead and demons. Moreover, multiple monster species populate each zone, so the player isn’t stuck fighting one enemy group for ten levels. Travel between zones is instantaneous, but this doesn’t seem to shrink the world at all; the sheer abundance and variety of locales is one of the game’s strongest features.
Combat is simple, streamlined, and effective. The speed at which spells and skills resolve is especially well suited to the controls and style, allowing for strategy while still forcing the player to think quickly. The item system is another positive aspect of “Sho Online.” Characters will quickly assemble a sizeable collection of magic items. Special weapons and armor pieces drop frequently, and each has its own individual bonuses. The system will feel familiar to fans of the “Diablo” series, who will once again get to hunt down components of item sets and agonize over which statistics to improve.
Since the storyline of “Sho Online” focuses on the war between Yin and Zhou, it should come as no surprise that PvP is an important aspect of the game. Players from opposing factions are always permitted to engage one another, but the real meat of “Sho Online’s” realm-versus-realm system is the war. This event activates whenever one side manages to kill a special governor NPC fighting for the other realm. From there, it’s a straight-on, head-to-head brawl. War impacts the player’s experience in a number of ways. Most of the contested territories are home to high-level monsters and valuable loot, so exerting control over the land allows victorious players to claim greater rewards. On the individual level, having a high PvP rank allows you to buy and use exclusive items. As you advance, you’ll be able to help your team out with new strategies and abilities. An item called War Plate transforms your character into a giant siege engine, amplifying your destructive potential. The end-game bosses drop items that enable more impressive transformations into soaring eagles and two-headed snakes.
In many ways, “Sho Online” has the foundation for a sweeping realm-versus-realm MMO. PvP combat changes the shape of the landscape, and each character, no matter how inexperienced, can contribute to the war effort. Unfortunately, the broken translation gets in the way of comprehension, and it’s hard to get fired up about a war you can’t understand. The inadequate translation also makes questing less rewarding, which may upset committed solo players or PvE enthusiasts. Aside from temporary events and a rudimentary crafting system, there aren’t many ways to get involved with the central conflict save actual participation. For the aspiring General, though, “Sho Online” provides frequent in-game rewards and many opportunities to conquer a world of myth and legend. Playing “Sho Online” requires more than a little patience, but those who come to the experience willing to work around its rough edges may find themselves growing very comfortable on the battlefield.
Review Josh Harrison
September 18, 2009
http://mmohub.org/game/sho-online/
MMOGANG Introduction
This is a blog for players of Massively Multi-player Online Games.
Massively Multi-player Online Games are growing with new title coming out exceeding old ones or not. This blog will spend some time on reviews of these titles, because as a gamer we want to know about exciting new games available and which ones to avoid. The best is always to try for you self and see, but because of the amount of time we as gamers invest in these games, there are some things we would like to know upfront, before we have spent weeks on the game title.
Massively Multi-player Online Games are growing with new title coming out exceeding old ones or not. This blog will spend some time on reviews of these titles, because as a gamer we want to know about exciting new games available and which ones to avoid. The best is always to try for you self and see, but because of the amount of time we as gamers invest in these games, there are some things we would like to know upfront, before we have spent weeks on the game title.
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