Yearly Archives: 2010

Battle of the Immortals

Battle of the Immortals is a 2.5D multiplayer game that incorporates eastern and western cultures ranging from Norse Mythology to the Qin Dynasty.

The immense amount of features in this game is amazing and there is hardly any grind for the first sixty levels. Additionally, there are many pets and mounts that you can upgrade and enhance. Being bored is practically impossible.

The pets and mounts are as beautiful as the armor designs. You can catch all in game monsters, excluding the ones you find in dungeons, the bosses and the special quest monsters. Catching a creature does not require anything special either; you will only have to kill mobs in order to make a catchable one appear. Regular members will only be able to have three pets at once, which isn’t much, but you will only need one at a time anyway. Your pets improve by simply killing monsters and you will be able to strengthen them by melding them with another pet or by using certain items, such as a Pet Gem.

You will get your own free mount, which is class-based. You can upgrade yours by fortifying them with special crystals. When you successfully fortify your mount it will change its appearance and make it look badass. More mounts are available in the Cash Shop.

At level 35 you will be able to gather herbs, crystals, ores and materials. With these items you can craft various accessories and other useful items. The crafting feature is so simple, yet effective. I have never seen one similar to Battle of the Immortals’ Tech System.

Mercenary Wars Interview: That Little Bit Extra

Mercenary Wars Interview: That Little Bit Extra
Questions by Vincent Haoson, OnRPG Journalist
Answered by …Mike Min, Creative Director and Chris Keswani, Marketing Manager

 

The FPS genre is one of the genre’s that finds itself in a rut in terms of innovation. It’s a genre that sees itself repeating the same features over and over again. However, Mercenary Wars tries to do something different with its bot and stat system that puts a little “extra” into the game. OnRPG got a chance to talk to two people who have been working on this MMOFPS and here’s what they have to say about the game.

 

Game Updates

OnRPG: It has been weeks since the game went CBT, how has the game so far?
Chris: We are very pleased with the way things have gone both internally and also with the feedback that players have provided us with.  With graphics that are superior to other FPS games currently on the market, we are confident that once the game is opened up to the entire FPS (and Gamer) community it will be well-received. 

 

Enemy in Mercenary Wars

Your Enemy Shows His Face

 

OnRPG: What bug problems were experienced during the first few weeks of the game’s Closed Beta? How did you address those problems?
Mike:
The major hurdle we faced was lag.  We improved on it for each Closed Beta, and during the final test we were able to create a lag free experience.  We would really like to thank our players in helping us find the cause of this issue, and were a great help during the whole process.

Chris: We have a very experienced team that is meticulous about compiling all of the bugs that were found during all of the closed betas and working hand-in-hand with the developers to correct these issues. 

 

OnRPG: Why is it that Mercenary Wars has gone through three closed betas? Would there be a fourth?
Chris: The reason we had three closed betas was so that we could continuously refine various aspects of the game.  There will not be a fourth closed beta because we feel that we are ready to open up Mercenary Wars to the general gaming community.  The Open Beta for Mercenary Wars will begin on December 22nd and we are working around the clock setting up in order to ensure that our gamers will have an amazing experience.

 

Keep Focus Mercenary Wars

He’s a Dead Man

 

Game System

OnRPG: Mercenary Wars includes a new system not yet used by any MMOFPS, the bot system, can you tell us how does the bot system work?
Mike:
Bots can basically take the place of players in a match, and can be added by the Room Leader.  They are great for beginner’s to practice with on the lowest difficulty setting, or can be set harder for vets to do some fine-tuning without affecting their Kill/Death ratio.  The bots  were really popular during the Beta Testing, and most of the rooms had at least 1 or 2 bots in them.

 

OnRPG: Is the bot system limited to work on specific maps or match types or is it available all throughout the game?
Mike:
We must create AI scripts for each of the maps, which takes some time.  Currently Bots can be used on 4 different maps, and 2 different modes (Free-For-All and DeathMatch).  We’re currently working on making them compatible with the other modes as well.

 

OnRPG: Can you set the difficulty of the AI? Why or why not?
Mike:
Yep, there are 5 difficulty levels ranging from “Noob” to “OMG HAX”.

 

OnRPG: How huge is Mercenary War’s armory? How often do you update the weapons players can use on  the game?
Mike:
We have 14 guns at the moment, and 2 sets of costumes for each of our 4 characters.  We’re currently planning on having major content patches every 4 weeks, where we plan on adding new weapons and modes.

 

OnRPG: Is the game’s armory all based on real-life weapons? Or would you include original weapons in the future? Why or why not?
Mike:
Currently the weapons and armor are all based on real-life weapons.  We’re planning on adding some “Fun” modes in the future that include some silly weapons, but they will only be useable in that mode.  But in general, the armory will be based on real-life.

 

OnRPG: Can you tell us a little bit about Mercenary War’s Stat system?
Mike: There are two different kinds of stats, General and Weapon.  General stats include things like grenade throw speed, walking speed, armor levels, etc.   Weapon stats allow you to specialize in either SMGs, Rifles, or Sniper Rifles.  In this way, players are able to create their own “class” without having to deal with pre-made characters.

 

Grenade Mercenary Wars

Throw a Grenade

 

OnRPG: MMOFPS is all about the player’s skill and internet connection, why include stats into the game?
Mike:
 The stats were designed so that players could customize their character to suit their play style, but at the end of the day the more skilled players will always win.  We currently have 4 characters in the game (and plan on adding a lot more), and each character can be given different stats, and then switched while you are re-spawning during a match.  So if one character is a Rifle specialist, but you want to switch to a Sniper-like character, you can do so immediately after death. 

 

OnRPG: How huge would the stats affect be in the player’s character? Do you think it would affect the game balance? Why or why not?
Mike: The stats do not play that huge a role on the character.  You will not see some characters fly across the map, while others have 10,000HP or anything like that.  They are subtle tweaks, and just by watching a player you will not be able to tell what stats he has increased.  And all characters get the same number of stat points, so it is still an even playing field.

 

OnRPG: Wouldn’t the stat system be a problematic factor for players in the long run especially for those who are loyal to the original concept of FPS games? Why do you think so?
Mike:
One of our main concerns/issues that we want to deal with is ensuring a competitive gaming environment.  It is one of the core concepts of our game design, and even things like the Cash Shop will not include guns/armor so that the level between CS user and non-CS user is lessened.  If the players ever feel the stat system is a problem or issue, we will definitely address it.  But so far feedback into the stat system has been positive.

 

Game Future

OnRPG: How long till you Mercenary Wars goes OBT? What exactly do you have planned?
Chris: We will be starting Open Beta on December 21st at 5PM PST.  The Open Beta will feature a more refined gaming experience for Mercenary Wars players.  We will be offering a slew of fun events which will give players the chance to win some great prizes.

 

OnRPG: What are the things in store for players with the remainder of 2009?
Chris: Well, given that the year is almost done with once we launch the Open Beta, I think we have covered everything more or less that players can expect during the next few weeks.  However, our development team and our marketing department are working feverishly on planning events and preparing additional elements to implement into the game in early Q1 of 2010.  I cannot talk about specifics at this point, but the new characters and maps to be added to the game is something that gamers can look forward to experiencing.

 

OnRPG: Thank you for your time!
Chris: Thank you for taking the time to speak with us Vincent.  We look forward to getting the chance to tell your community about our upcoming release.  

Player Feels Lucky to Have Named GameÂ’s Expansion

Player Feels Lucky to Have Named Game’s Expansion

 

Jever EverJest, a player of the Free-to-Play Martial Arts MMORPG, Dragon Oath, revealed that his suggestion for the game’s upcoming major expansion was the chosen one. His idea Age of Destiny was picked by the game’s publisher, and he was very excited to know that he contributed to changing the face of gaming. 
The Dragon Oath team recently announced that they were looking for some cool name ideas for their recent expansion. The expansion includes some very exciting content such as highly sought after new areas, extremely powerful weapons, unique pets, and access to several new events. After getting hundreds of submissions from very enthusiastic players, Jever EverJest’s was selected: Dragon Oath: Age of Destiny! 
“It just seemed to fit, given the content that [is being] implemented in game, the opening of this content fulfills a destiny most players are waiting for,” he said.

Dragon Oath Combat

 

Jever EverJest has been playing Dragon Oath since the end of Nov 09 – right after Open Beta began. “I was looking for a game to play and I came across an ad for D.O. on Facebook and I have been hooked ever since,” he said.
“This game has the most content I have seen in a MMO – the quest systems/pets/breeding/crafting/casting/sewing – it all reminds me of a MMO I used to play – which is most likely why I am hooked on it — the other MMO was Ultima Online, which I played for over 15yrs,” he said.
Jever EverJest has made an everlasting contribution to a game he loves playing, and you can too. Every player can make a difference!

Dragon Oath Happy Bunny

 

Dragon Oath Pirate Ship

Angels Online: New Expansion Added to Version 3.0.0.1

Angels Online: New Expansion Added to Version 3.0.0.1

 

The Angels Online team from IGG ( I Got Games) was very excited to announce the launch of the latest expansion for Angels Online –the Floating Island. With that,   Angels Online game client has been updated to Version 3.0.0.1
Take a look at the new contents added to the latest version:
 
New Class Assassins
As the fourth expansion for Angels Online, Floating Island contains loads of fresh content. One of the very best aspects of the new addition is the brand new class–Assassins. Swathed in black robes, their faces covered by masks they are the anonymous killers. Often the only part of them that can me seen is the shiny dagger in their hands. However, the also have a myriad of other weapons secreted about their person. So if you ever get the chance to meet one you might not be around long enough to critique their outfit.

Entrance to Floating Island

Entrance to the Floating Island

 

 

New Scenes Sunshine Palace
The new version is chock full of new scenes and intriguing storylines. The mysterious Sunshine Palace, which has been guarded by a colossal ancient dragon, is ready to once again face the harsh light of day. The whole flying paradise of the Floating Island is under the control of an ancient civilization and will soon be appearing in the skies of Eden. But what will become of it? Will the Evil Lyceum take control of it and bend it to their nefarious will? Or will Micheal’s little Angels be able to deliver it from evil? Only time will tell.


Entrance to Sunshine Palace

Entrance to Sunshine Palace

 

 

New Combat Angel Arena
The new Angel Arena becomes even more alluring when players gather large groups to have at each other. Now, 16 distinct maps will each host a battle, determining who will move to the next round, until only one player is left standing. So if you can’t wait until the next GM hosted Battle Royale, then gather as many friends as you can and let the blood flow.


Bombs Away Angels Online

 

Elf Pilots Battle Royale Angels Online

 

Rainbow Fight Angels Online

 

Thousand Swords Battle Angels

 

 

Read more about Angels Online.
For more details please visit the official site.


R.O.H.A.N.: Blood Feud – New Dungeon Awaits

R.O.H.A.N.: Blood Feud – New Dungeon Awaits

Online PC game publisher YNK Interactive today announced an expansion to their MMORPG, R.O.H.A.N.: Blood Feud, by adding a new Dungeon called, “Ronelia”.

Dungeon Ronelia Rohan Blood Feud

 

“Ronelia is a special treat to our high level players who will definitely enjoy the challenge that awaits them in the new dungeon,” said Derrick Lee, YNK Interactive Game Lead. “This is only the beginning of what we have coming in 2010 for R.O.H.A.N.: Blood Feud.”
 
Ronelia is a challenging new map designed for players with higher level characters, which has three main areas: The Courtyard, Underground Cell, and Castle.  Along with new mobs, bosses, items, and dozens of new quests obtainable at level 75 or above, this dungeon will soon be a popular new hunting ground in the world of R.O.H.A.N.

Tough Defense Ronelia Dungeon Rohan

 

Dungeon Torture Rohan Ronelia

 

Guards Defending Ronelia Dungeon

 

Ronelia Palace Castle Courtyard

 

Palace Interioar Ronelia Rohan

 

King Throne Missing Rohan Ronelia

 

Prayer Temple Palace Rohan Ronelia

 

Encounter Mobs in Ronelia Rohan

 

 

Desert Blitz

Prove your leadership skills as commander in chief of your troops in Rakistan. Use different tactical opportunities to defeat your enemies and to capture the world’s last oil resources.
 
Desert Blitz takes place in the future. The world’s economy broke down and the leading industrial countries were not succeeding in providing alternative energies early enough.
 
Build your own base in Rakistan, situated in the near east, and explore new technologies. Use invasions, air strikes or sabotage to defeat your enemies. Train pioneers to build further bases and to gain more resources.

N.E.O Online: Reinforcement and Featured Skills Unveiled

N.E.O Online: Reinforcement and Featured Skills Unveiled


PlayOMG, a worldwide publisher of online games, today releases more information about its upcoming title, N.E.O Online, a new free-to-play MMORPG. Those seeking a fun and free way to experience the game can participate in activities such as hunting, collecting, fishing and more. The game is scheduled for its public beta test this spring. PlayOMG unveils more game features including reinforcement system and living skills.

 

 

Crafting unique items has always been a lot of fun in MMO games and N.E.O Online is no exception. Fair stones can be found throughout the mysterious world and those are essentials for reinforcing weapons or armors. A successful reinforcement would increase the power of item depending on type of fair stone, which can generate thousands of combination of add-on attributes.

 

 

Moreover, when obtaining high-grade items or fair stones, players can make an appraisal to release additional values.

N.E.O Online is designed to bring new gaming experience to gamers. In addition to battling monsters, gamers are able to enjoy the game through various living skills including collecting, mining, weaving, fishing, cooking and much more. Those skills are necessary for certain quests that can give reward of skill points. The dyeing technique brings numerous possibilities to style your hero. Exclusive color palette is offered for creating unique costume. The manufacturing skill even provides an alternative way to acquire splendid items. Players can produce items such as food, weapon and fair stone. For those gamers willing to live a ranch life, N.E.O Online offers more than just beautiful scenery; it is also a great place to enjoy many recreational interests.



 

Legacy of the Holy Castle Review: Medieval Sensations

Legacy of the Holy Castle Review: Medieval Sensations
By Kei Beneza (dividelife), OnRPG Journalist

 

Legacy of the Holy Castle is a massively multiplayer online web browser game set on the age of medieval warfare in a fantasy world. First thing you probably noticed would be the game’s awesome interface that kind of looks like tapestry in an old castle (Ye olde web page). One thing about this game that’s rather controversial is the fact that it pays people to make positive reviews (my thanks to a fellow blogger who told me). It looks like the event is over so I guess I can make a rather truthful review.

 

When I first saw the game’s website, I was in awe due to its Dungeons and Dragons like design. Two knights fighting in the middle of the fire, a cool logo of what’s supposed to look like a Dragon, seriously something that can draw medieval fans in.

 

Let’s Get Started

After creating my account and picking my server, I was taken into the game’s character selection screen. The first thing that came off as a drag was their six-letter limit for character names. I was hoping to call my character “Testament” but ended up picking a random “6-lettered name” from Google instead. After typing in your name, you’ll be opted to choose between an array of anime portraits which are supposed to resemble your character. Once you pick your anime face, you’ll have to choose what your first 2 skills will be. Since I had no idea what these things meant, so I clicked on the GUIDE button for further information.

 

*click* What the…?

 

You could edit your castle name and login password from Setting. However? you will need Castle Rename Card to edit your castle name—--“

 

Seriously, what does this mean? I was hoping to learn more about character skills and now they tell me about renaming castles? Since I really had no idea what I was doing, I picked Strength and Rush just to get it over with.

 

 

Character Legacy Holy Castle

Legacy’s Character Screen with Anime Faces

 

Whoah! Slow down!

After brushing myself through some excruciating character creation methods, I was taken to the game’s main interface (which looked terrific). I saw a tagboard (chatbox) on the right side of the screen which gave me an assurance that other people were there to teach me the basics. After looking at a bold highlighted text that said BEGINNER’S QUEST, I gave off a sigh of relief thinking I was on my way to some BASIC training.

Welcome to The Legacy of Holy Castle. You are the lord of a castle here and you are going to build it up. Gold is the most important resource in this game. You’ll need a great deal of it to get your castle running. To get more gold you need to upgrade your Silver Mine. First, check the “Construction” section from the left, find Silver Mine, then click the “Upgrade”. Now you see the timer. You’ll get 500 gold as reward when it finishes.”

 

Okay! That’s simple enough! I tired browsing around the interface trying to look for anything regarding the Silver mines (insert long ellipsis here), luckily the pizza arrived in the mean time, so I – Oh there! I found it!

 

Train Your Units (and let them handle the confusion)

After playing the game for countless hours, I managed to reach a point wherein I’m able to train units.  Much like any MMO, you need currency to survive. The thing is, this game respects the RTS (real time strategy) form of currency which revolves around Money, wood, food and gems. Combat is as simple as a game of rock, papers, scissors. In my opinion it’s a bit lame but it does make it easier for you to strategize- not to mention less AI required. I think this system has been used for games like Guilty Gear Overture (XBox 360) and Advance Wars (GBA, DS). There’s nothing wrong with this type of gameplay since it reduces unit spamming to a minimum (No Zergling rush here folks!).

 

Crafts and Armies Legacy Holy Castle

Crafting and Combat

 

In other words, you have to make sure that you make a battle optimized (rock-paper-scissors optimized rather) squad in order to swing the tides of battle to your advantage (unless you want your army of melee characters to get PWNED by 2 ranged units). In my opinion, the system is pretty lame, but hey, it’s a browser game.

 

Safety Rocks! Nya nya! You can’t catch me!

One important fact to ponder on would be the newbie safety barrier. While on your early stages, you’re safe from any form of invasion. Know that this type of protection won’t last forever, and you’ll have to face enemy troops after learning the ropes.

 

Graphics

The interface is truly amazing, with awesome popup messages that indicate either your success or failure. The menu looks pretty nifty as it resembles those old school Dungeons and Dragons Manuals.  The map interface doesn’t look bad as well as it lets you build defensive towers of some sort to help protect your Heroic Fortress. In fact, the overall visuals are really impressive for a browser game. You can also place your units on the unit location map which consists of trees and plants which are supposed to serve as some form of obstruction. When it comes to visuals, I’d say Legacy of the Holy castle is pretty well done.

Some Trouble

Aside from my little character guide problem, I had some problems with other broken links as well. Initially I thought it was just my connection, but I searched around the web and found other people who encountered the same problem. It turns out that the game had a lot of broken links. I’d get to it right away if I were them, because some players aren’t too forgiving.

The verdict

All in all, I’d say this game is pretty good. I still log in to my account to check for updates regularly. It’s rather funny that you have to send your own hero to do lumber work when you have troops at your disposal. Unfortunately, these guys never played warcraft so I guess they wouldn’t know the idea of hiring peasants LOL. 

 

The interface is pretty neat! Needs a bit more tweaking in terms of visuals but it’ll do for now. The way you position your troops is one thing, but the combat system greatly affects (destroys) this type of system. If you place your ranged unit far from the others, it won’t make any difference as it’s relatively just another game of rock papers scissors. In my opinion, they could’ve just given each unit a higher percentage of victory over the other, not an all out defeat, such as when a knight would always have to bend over when facing a ranger.  The broken links are a drag so I hope they fix it soon.

 

The good:
– Awesome interface
– Planned Skirmish
– Unit Location
– Map system
– Quests

 

The bad:
– Broken Links
– Repetitive
– Combat System doesn’t feel too immersive (I prefer dice rolls LOL).