Yearly Archives: 2010
Secret of the Solstice Review: A Refined Version of Ragnarok Online
Secret of the Solstice Review: A Refined Version of Ragnarok Online
By Vincent Haoson (Vincenthaoson), OnRPG Journalist
For us who have been immersed in the MMO scene, it would be rare to find someone who is not familiar with Ragnarok Online. That game has surprisingly, up to now been one of the most active MMOs out on the market.
With its success spawned a lot of MMOs that tried to follow its winning formula, most of which end up being a mere shadow of the main material of the game. However, among the followers there seems to be one that has successfully incorporated the winning formula and thus created its own mark in the MMO scene. This is where Secret of the Solstice comes in.
Before I continue
First things first, I must say that I used Ragnarok Online as the springboard for this review due to the fact that Secret of the Solstice has a lot of Ragnarok Online’s elements present. However, I am not saying that the game is a complete clone or copy of Gravity’s major MMO hit.

A town in Secret of the Solstice
Similarities
Secret of the Solstice is an MMO that uses the mix of cute graphics and a refined character growth system that I must say is a rare thing to find in these kinds of MMOs. The mix of a superb set of game sprites, the wonderfully created game background music and the breath taking in-game visuals makes this game a game that is worth trying, and because of these elements the game has earned itself its own place in the MMO scene.
However, I cannot ignore the fact that Secret of the Solstice takes a lot of Ragnarok Online in terms of style and game theme. The city you start in feels all too familiar and the forests, dungeons and maps you get to travel and explore makes you think that you’ve visited them before in Ragnarok Online. Plus, Secret of the Solstice’s game system has a familiar ring to it especially once you’ve immersed yourself into it. The familiar feel of the game will continue on as you keep on playing however, the differences will also become noticeable as you play.

Similarities and differences
Differences
The first difference you experience once you log in is that Secret of the Solstice’ graphics are better than Ragnarok Online, the characters and game visuals look crisper, furthermore, Secret of the Solstice’ animation is more fluid when compared to Ragnarok Online. Another difference between the two games is that Secret of the Solstice has a more difficult gameplay system compared to Ragnarok Online. The quests are more challenging and more laborious plus questing in Secret of the Solstice eats more of your time than it does in Ragnarok Online.
Quests
When I started playing Secret of the Solstice, the beginner’s quests were a breeze as the game system has its own tracking feature which makes you character move on its own. All you had to do was to click on the NPC and you’re all set. However, when you reach you’re a new level the game then drops you like a hot potato and leaves you hanging as you try to figure out how to play the game. It felt as if the rug was tugged right out from under me as I fumbled along my first experience with the game.

On a quest with my pet
I must also say that the quests in Secret of the Solstice, even the low level ones are a handful and tedious. Aside from the usual killing, looting and finding NPCs you’d have to go through a lot of maps, and I do mean a lot of maps before being able to accomplish a quest. There are times that you’d even wish you’d just grinded your way up. You realize later when you’ve reached the 40 level mark that quests are your best friend.
Game System
Secret of the Solstice’ quest system has a lot of similarities with Ragnarok Online’s as both games have a guild, PVP and pet system. However, this is where Secret of the Solstice pales in comparison to Ragnarok Online because the game has neither a siege system nor an actual guild war system. Sure, guilds can go head to head in the PVP rooms however, there is no actual system that allows guild leaders to directly challenge one another. Also, the lack of a siege system is a letdown especially for those more competitive players. However, Secret of the Solstice does have a mount system where aside from having their own pets players can ride mounts ranging from horses to hippos, each having their own stat bonuses.

Characer class guide with detailed information
Conclusion
Secret of the Solstice is a hit and miss game where the hits come from the refined look, texture and feel while the misses come from the lack of game systems that can really interest the game’s population. Outspark does try to make the game interesting by steadfastly implementing a lot of events and whatnot to pique the player’s interest. The thing is, you really do feel that the game’s lack of system is a reason for not continuing. The lack of a siege or guild war system is a nagging reminder of the limitations Secret of the Solstice has. Yes, the graphics may look better and the animations are smoother but then that would only serve as a temporary reason for playing. Then you ask yourself what’s the whole point?
To be fair, Secret of the Solstice is a solid MMO. In fact, aside from the nice visuals and solid gameplay, the game’s community is one of the nicest I’ve experienced in a while. However, the game is better suited as a competitive MMO much like Ragnarok Online. The game has all the makings of a great game but due to its lack of additional play systems it has to rely heavily on its events and community.
In the end, I’m sticking to my conclusion that Secret of the Solstice is in fact a refined version of Ragnarok Online in terms of graphics and visuals. Anyone who wants to experience a solid, cute and enjoyable MMO should really try this game out. However, as a precaution one should not expect much from this one cause you’d only be disappointed in the end.
Pros:
– The game looks good
– Solid gameplay
– The animations are fluid and fun to watch.
Cons:
– Feels all like your playing Ragnarok Online
– Lack of game features
– Quests are tedious
Funtasy Gameplay Video
Funtasy Online is an extremely cute Chinese game full of rainbow colors. The original title was Rainbow Bubbles. Yes, Rainbow Bubbles. Don’t judge too fast, the game is worth a try!
The MMO Bro Code Chapter 2: Roleplaying
The MMO Bro Code Chapter 2: Roleplaying
By Kei Beneza (dividelife), OnRPG Journalist
What is an MMO Bro? Surely you know who your MMO Bros are. These are the cool people in your group of adventurers whom you call dude, Bro, or simply the ones who are there to help you out in your time of need. MMO Bros are all around us, and though not all MMO Bros know each other, they simply just know who’s a Bro when they talk to one. Greetings my fellow Bro and welcome to Chapter 2 of our “Broscapades”.
Today we are going to discuss the various limitations and exceptions of our MMO Bro rules in the aspect of Roleplaying. If you are not familiar with the MMO Bro, then I suggest you read our first chapter here. For those who are familiar with what we Bros are all about, let’s begin.
New Classes
1). The chick- any MMO girl can also be a Bro, and there are no rules stating that a chick can never be a Bro. As long as she’s got your back and is equally cool as the other Bros then that girl is definitely a Bro.
Referred to as: Yo, dude, or simply by their first name (NEVER refer to a Bro by their last name as each Bro deserves to be called by their first name as a form of respect)
2). The Fantasy Bro- Not all Bros can be called Bros; in fact, there are some who persistently want to roleplay. Note that these people are still your Bros regardless of what dimension their mind is in at the moment.
Some talk like aristocrats and some like barbaric idiots. Always respect them and play accordingly as they may actually save your ARSE in the near future. The more hardcore they are at roleplaying, the longer they have been playing. These peeps might have super strong alts (alternative characters) so treat them well.
3). The Chick with eggs- Some players actually have characters of the opposite gender. Note that this gimmick of theirs does not hinder them from becoming a Bro as there are no rules about queers not being Bros. It also does not prove anything about them being queer whatsoever.
Elite classes:
1). Elite Alpha Bro Commander- in a roleplaying server, a pack of wolves must also have their alpha wolf to avoid unnecessary actions in the RP server. These are Bros who are experienced and have faced various obstacles in said game, so treat him with respect and he’ll treat you with HONOR.
The enemies
1). The “Rolebreaker”- If you’ve ever been on a roleplaying server, you’ll notice that some of the players are actually acting normally instead of in character. Note that these are trying too hard and are fake Bros who are calling real Bros “Dude” or “Yo” unaware of their lack of coolness.
2). The deaf- Some people actually just ignore other people on purpose. These people are not hostile in terms of PVP but sometimes interfere with your progress by kill stealing and ninja looting. If one of your party members refuses to talk or chat, feel free to kick them off the party as they are obviously up to no good.
Core rules of Chapter 2
Rule number 1: Always treat girl characters as girls on an RP server
As creepy as it may seem, it is a Roleplaying server anyway, and us Bros need to keep order by playing accordingly with fellow Bros. This enhances the experience and can work well for your character in various ways. Yes, we are aware that your mistress is a dude, but always remember that a dude is a Bro and a Bro is your dude, so keep that dude happy so he’ll become your Bro. (Same applies to girls playing as males)
Rule number 2: A true Bro stays in character even in the presence of a Rolebreaker
A Rolebreaker can annoy the hell out of Bros in real life, but that shouldn’t stop them from pursuing their desired play style. If ever you come across a rolebreaker, just pretend that you don’t understand him even though he says dude and yo like a real Bro. He may throw insults like “retard” and “fat-arse” in your face, but do know that he’s the only idiot on that RP server.

References to real life are not permitted (naked dancing is, though).
Note: The words Yo and Dude only makes sense when it is being said by a true Bro.
Rule number 3: A real Bro knows how to RP a sensual love scene
A real Bro’s awesome performance in his IRL sex-life must also be implemented when RP calls for it. There’s no doubt that true Bro knows how to satisfy polygonal chicks especially in a bordello scenario, so go and make them squirm for mercy!

Getting this far is a quest on its own.
Note: a real Bro does not fall back when faced by more than one virtual girl in a bordello scenario. Have faith in yourself and you’re bound to become one of their best customers.

There’s nothing like walking in on a sex scene.
Rule number 4: Bros KNOW what they are talking about
Real Bros never mutter out nonsense in the middle of an RP conversation. A true Bro must always have an active storyline and must never say that he has forgotten something or has lost his memory unless it is a part of his character and is bound to regain his memory 2 seconds later (LOL). This also applies to your character’s RP battle cry. If ever you are in the middle of combat, don’t shout “FOR THE EMPIRE” if you belong to the federation cause’ then you will be forced to hand over your Bro dignity and will need to eat 5 raw chickens and 7 goat tongues in order to gain your honor back.
Last words for the RP Bros
Roleplaying is fun… and having an MMO Bro around makes it even better. If a party consists of all Bros, then the game is considered null and void due to the aura of awesomeness irradiating from the presence of a group of Bros. If the server has an RP rule then don’t be a Rolebreaker. Always stay true and act your part with dignity and pride. You are a true Bro, with an epic storyline that makes any lore look like a child’s sketchbook. Hear your Bros and don’t be deaf, obey your Elite Alpha Bro commander so that you too may sit in his stature as you grow with all the BRO-NESS in your presence. Until then, may the spirit of the Bro god invest good fortune and a 1337 amount of gold in your journey.
Destiny Online: Glory of the Tribe Expansion Now Live
Destiny Online: Glory of the Tribe Expansion Now Live



Erebus: Travia Reborn Trailer
Travia needs a bold leader, Travia needs a just leader! Fight for humanity or fight each other!
SUN Memoirs of the Shadow
When it is time for the fallen souls to arise from their deserted bodies, a lost child from demon lineage, shall return. The spirits of the damned will find you.
Erebus: Travia Reborn Interview: One Mean God At Your Service
Erebus: Travia Reborn Interview: One Mean God At Your Service
Questions by: Vincent Haoson
Answered by: Ben Berens, Associate Producer for Erebus
Mixing action and RPG isn’t anything new in the online gaming scene. There have been games that promised action-based mmorpg fun, which turn out to be hit and miss in terms of delivering the promise. There seems however another contender in the action-mmorpg department, Erebus.
The game has just finished its 1st CBT and we got a chance to talk to the people behind the game just before they launch their 2nd CBT. So here’s the scoop!
OnRPG: I read that you guys just finished the 1st CBT of the game, so what were the biggest problems you faced during the CBT?
We were lucky to have a very smooth CBT that concluded with very few major issues. Most of the players asked for gameplay related changes, such as more quests at certain level ranges due to a lack of ways to get exp other than grinding, and a tutorial to help explain how to play the game. So for CBT2 we’ve gone back and added additional early level quests to the game. We’ve also altered the way skill progression works, and made a tutorial since the game could be confusing to people who have never played an action-RPG before.
OnRPG: How has the player support of the game been during its CBT? Did it meet your expectations?
Our player support has been great so far. The players have been very active in giving us valuable feedback on the forums and in the surveys. A lot of this feedback has led to direct changes in-game that the players will soon see in CBT2. We are enjoying the rapidly growing community.. They’ve even already built a fan-run wiki!

OnRPG: Erebus is supposed to be an MMO Action-RPG, what action elements are present in Erebus?
The game is an action game built with an RPG wrapper. In the game, you choose your hero from different classes, earn rewards, learn new skills, and will enjoy lots more classical RPG elements. The thing that makes Erebus an action game, though, is that the combat is in real time. There are a lot of different monsters and enemies to fight in the game, too, so you’ll never be far from the action.
The action is present in both PvP and PvE elements, too. In PvP there are going to be a ton of modes players can participate in, and PvE is going to feature not only monsters to kill in the general map, but also instance dungeons and other fun surprises.
OnRPG: What do you think is Erebus’ edge against other action MMORPGs out right now? Why do you think so?
I think there are a couple of parts of Erebus that really give it an edge over other action MMORPGs. The first one is the story. We worked with a professional author (Jake Forbes) to make something really original. The next thing is the action has a classic isometric look, but the skills all have nice looking special effects, and they’ve been optimized well together. This allows the game to work on lower end machines and netbooks while at the same time looking good on faster rigs.
The PvP is really a ton of fun as well, and there are all sorts of ways people can participate from dueling other players while out hunting to conquering villages and battling other guilds. (People can get a taste of that in the next Closed Beta Test.) If PvP isn’t your thing, then the instanced dungeons and randomized drops and monster spawns in the world will offer more action than most games out. And of course, the very best part, is that Erebus is completely free to play.
OnRPG: What Erebus’ game features do you think will players love? Why do you think so?
I think players will enjoy the story, action, and multiplayer aspects, including guild warfare and village conquering. The various types of PvP and PKing should be a big hit, and also all of the dungeons with global spawn bosses, rare monsters that drop cash shop items, and the loot drops and item customization.

OnRPG: Are the job classes in Erebus race locked? Does it have to do with the game’s lore?
Currently, the job classes are race locked. This does have to do with the game’s lore, in which essentially different races developed different skills, and these skills are closely guarded secrets. However, that isn’t to say that classes may not be able to learn something new in the future…
OnRPG: What was the most used job class by players during the CBT? Why do you think they prefer using that class among the other one’s available?
Most players chose to be warriors simply because it was the most familiar to them and they want a huge sword. However, quite a bit of players chose to play as a cleric with their blend of combat and healing abilities. Each class has its own strengths and weaknesses, though. Players will have to choose for themselves, or try all the classes!
OnRPG: Is Erebus more of a skill focused game or does it give importance on a character’s stat allocation?
Erebus places importance on both skills and stats. The player can actually choose what skills to learn, and can allocate skill points towards different skills. Additionally, stat allocation plays a big part of the customization. Certain weapons and items you may find while playing can only be used if your strength, agility, and other stats meet a certain level. But it’s open to the player to change stats on their characters, so they can experiment and get the hero the way they like.
OnRPG: What PvP features are present in Erebus? Does the game also give importance to PVPing?
Erebus will have multiple ways to engage your friends and enemies in PvP. Players will be able to participate in open field PK, individual and party duels, various guild battles, massive faction wars and also casual arena PvP. More features are in development that will integrate PvP into the storyline and give players incentives to group up in their parties, guilds, and factions. There will be multiple PvP only maps, and most of the maps allow PKing at higher levels as well
OnRPG: How huge is the game’s bestiary? And Where did you base the monsters you use in the game?
The bestiary is well over 100 general types monsters, not including boss monsters and some other surprises. The list is also always going to be growing as the game moves forward and new content is continually added.
The monsters in the game are based on former girlfriends.
OnRPG: The game seems to use a mix of bright colored animation and sprites in a dark backdrop do you think this is a good mix for the game?
I think the bright animations give a great contrast to the game and give that awe factor to players when they use them. It also really puts the emphasis on the player’s character, as they’re this bright beacon of hope (for whichever faction they side with) in an otherwise dark world.
OnRPG: How will the game’s story affect the way future updates will be added to Erebus?
We are working on weaving in more of the back story to future updates. The story can open up in a number of directions. What will be really fun for us is that users themselves will help determine the end game, so we can continue to craft the story accordingly. Mainly, we want people to enjoy this as much as we do!
OnRPG: What other game features will you be including for the upcoming 2nd CBT?
The most anticipated feature being brought into the 2nd CBT is the Guild System. With it will come options for guild battle including map takeovers and some other new guild incentives. We will also bring in another map for players to explore, and a few instance dungeons/quests built completely for this new version of the game. Players will be able to participate in these quests to learn more about the story of Erebus and also have the opportunity to find some unique, rare items.
OnRPG: What are the things that you will be keeping an eye on in Erebus’ 2nd CBT?
For CBT2, we want to look more at the balancing between the classes and the overall experience of the players. We want to make sure that the players returning from CBT1 are having a good time at the higher levels, and that the lower level players are enjoying the changes that were made as well. Of course, we will continue to review the feedback from our players and make appropriate changes based on that.

We’re also going to be continuing our evaluation of the level curve, as I want to make this game fully accessible to new players. This involves not only adjusting exp rates, but also adding a new tutorial, new content and new quests to relevant areas to improve the players’ leveling experience.
OnRPG: What’s in store for Erebus players in the succeeding months?
Lots! We currently have tons of enhancements to the game in development that will both make it much easier for the players to play the game, and add a lot of new content for players to explore. Players can definitely look forward to new maps and instance dungeons/quests as well as a few more features that will enhance the PvP system.
OnRPG: Thank you for your time!
You’re quite welcome! Great chatting with you!
Kingdom Heroes on Kingdom War, Global PVP, City Conquests and More!
Kingdom Heroes on Kingdom War, Global PVP, City Conquests and More!

Kingdom Heroes combat mounts

Face your enemy faction

Alliance of Valiant Arms Review: EU vs NRF
Alliance of Valiant Arms Review: EU vs NRF
By Mohammad Abubakr (Abubakr), OnRPG Journalist
Alliance of Valiant Arms or AVA is a great looking massively multiplayer first person shooter (MMOFPS). The game features many elements you will recognize if you have played any other FPS but it also offers many unique features that will make you want to give it a try. AVA will requires you and your team to use good amount of strategy. You cannot just run towards your enemy expecting to take the whole team down.
When I started my first match, I noticed that the graphics looked great compared to other free MMOFPS games. The maps are detailed and show that the developers spent a great deal of time designing them. The weapons are also very detailed and the lighting on them makes them look even better! Keep in mind that the graphics will look much better when playing, so please do not judge them just from my screenshots.
There are however some problems with the graphics. I was not able to change each setting manually! I was only able to change my resolution and the gamma. There are radio buttons, which allow you to manually change the settings, but I was not able to change from automatic to manual. After doing some configuration file modifications the manual box did get highlighted, but I still did not see any options. There is a logo about Nvidia so maybe we ATI users cannot change the graphics.
Sniped!
The sound is not so bad. The guns sound pretty realistic and the music is alright. Many of you will like it more than me because I do not listen to music. The grenades sound very realistic. You can feel the vibration and the echo when they explode. There is a radio function you can use to give your team commands or just warn them of incoming enemies. Your character will actually automatically do these commands when needed.
Unlike most free FPS games there are three classes you can easily switch between based on what you feel like playing. These are the sniper, point man and the rifleman. The sniper is my favourite class because they do a lot of damage from long range with amazing accuracy. The downside is that he does not shoot very fast.
The point man is the opposite of the sniper. He is the master of close range with very high movement speed and uses SMGs and knives. He is not very good at range though. Finally, the rifleman is a balance of the two. He uses rifles and is the master of grenades.
Game Modes
AVA has quite a few game modes to offer that will keep you entertained. Many of these are available in other FPS games but there are some that are unique. You really cannot make all your game modes unique in an FPS because they will almost always involve you or your team killing the enemies using guns and rifles and playing in at least a few standard modes. This game does however change the names around to make their game modes a bit unique.
The first game mode I will be talking about is Annihilation. Annihilation is played just like your typical team death match mode. There are two teams who will keep on killing each other until the target amount of kills or points has been reached. The team to reach this first will be the winner.
There is however a small twist. When you kill a player, they will drop dog-tags. Pickup three of these and you will get bonus points! To make it a bit harder, your-dog tags will reset to zero when you die. You need to get a triple kill streak, run to the body, which usually means getting in open fire, and loot the dog tags. Not that easy for a beginner.
Another game mode many of you will be familiar with is Demolition, which is usually known as Search and Destroy. Most FPS gamers will know that the aim of this mode is to plant C4 on one of the various points or to annihilate the other team. In AVA, EU (Europe) will be the one attacking and planting the C4 while NRF (Neo Russian Federation) will try and kill the EU team or defuse the bomb. There is no respawning until the round ends.
Convoy is another game mode. This mode plays like Capture the Flag. EU has to transport an object to the target area to win while NRF tries to stop them. You can also just kill the opposing team to win. Once again there is no respawning until the end of the round.
Now come the more unique game modes. Prison Break is one of my favourite modes in AVA and has just been released recently. If you ever played a game like Left 4 Dead or any game where you survive waves of zombies, you will like this mode. Instead of zombies you will have to fight off escaped prisoners or fugitives. You will see huge amounts of them running towards you. To make it a bit fair they can only use melee. There are some harder to defeat fugitives you can fight which will randomly spawn at times. One of these types is the swift fugitive who runs very fast, making sure you have a challenge. To make it even harder you cannot respawn! When your whole team dies, you lose.

Fighting Fugitives
While you are killing all these enemies you will be burning a lot of ammo. You can find ammo and health packs by killing fugitives. They will randomly drop.
To win in Prison Break you have to kill all fugitives for round one. In round two you have to activate four controllers to open the gates and in round three you use C4 to demolish the four controllers and open the gate to the helipad. While doing all this there will still be waves of prisoners coming. This sure is one big jail.
The last game mode AVA has to offer is Escort. This is another one of my favourite modes because it reminds me of payload in Team Fortress 2. EU is in charge of escorting a tank to specific points while NRF must defend. To move the tank you simply stand beside it. NRF has areas where they can get RPGs (anti tank rocket launchers) to take down the tanks and stop them from moving any further. EU can repair the tanks when they have been damaged and use the machine gun to mow down enemies. If you fail to reach the specific points before the time ends you will fail.
Customizing and Maps
When creating your character you do not get many options to change your character’s features. You will simply choose what face you want, name your character and start playing the game. You are only able to create male characters; I have not seen any female characters while playing this game.
There are quite a few guns to choose from for each of the classes. To make it even better, you can customize them! You are able to add on items like scopes or silencers to change your weapon to suit your play style.
This game features ten maps unique from each other to offer you some variety so you will not be doing the same thing and applying the same strategies all day.

Very nice lighting on the armour. Also shows how you can use your environment to make strategies.
My Experience
I really enjoyed playing this game as it features great graphics with very fun gameplay. The game was very easy to learn and get used to as I play a lot of FPS games. I enjoyed playing Escort because I love TF2 and this game reminded me a lot of payload in TF2 where you must push a cart to the points.
There were some problems with lag but it rarely happened. I did not experience the community too much because people did not talk a lot. I believe adding a voice chat function will encourage people to talk more and come up with strategies.
Conclusion
To conclude, AVA is a great FPS game that is definitely worth checking out. I can guarantee it will keep you occupied for a while with its great graphics and gameplay. A little work to fix the lag, allow easier changing of graphics, and maybe implementing voice chat will make AVA a great free FPS game.
Pros:
– Good graphics
– Weapons are customizable
– You are able to do offers from Ijji to get free CS items.
– Easy to learn but will take time to master.
– A lot of competition (There are even tournaments for those who are really good)
– Unique modes
– A lot of servers to choose from; never wait to play the game.
– A lot of ranks to keep you busy.
Cons:
– You might face problems changing graphic options.
– The community did not seem to talk too much. (Might be different for everyone, maybe I picked the wrong rooms)
– Some lag issues but they rarely occur.