VanCanto, the resident band of Runes of Magic, presents their latest song: Magic Taborea
Yearly Archives: 2010
Neverdaunt:8bit Trailer
The tantalizing 8bit environment in 3D is filled with both humor and nostalgia and offers more than you think!
Vikings of Thule Preview: Facebook Vikings FTW
Vikings of Thule Preview: Facebook Vikings FTW
By Vincent Haoson, OnRPG Journalist
Vikings of Thule is a browser based MMOG from Gogogic, made specifically for Facebook. The game puts you in the shoes of a Viking vying to become part of the 39 Viking chiefs that belong to the Iceland parliament, the Althingi.

Initial Impressions
At first glance the game is seems to be your usual browser MMOG that caters to the bored and who are active in Facebook. Vikings of Thule has the basic game features you can find in a browser based game. It has economy and land management, character build up, PVE and PVP.

The game initially felt like any flash based game we can come across in Facebook save, that Vikings of Thule seems to be more serious than Farmville or Cafe World. In fact the game’s seriousness is one of its numerous interesting characteristics which kept me from moving on to another game.
You are a Pira- *cough* Viking
Okay so the Viking concept is pretty unique for me. I’ve had too any pirates, elves, orcs and even zombies in my online games that it’s quite refreshing to get a Viking game that took itself seriously. The majority of the Viking information on the game is based on historical facts about Vikings. You get to experience their way of life as remote as it may seem through the game. I can go as far as saying that the game can even be used as an “immersion” tool for social study teachers for students to further show how the Vikings lived then.

I appreciated that the Gogogic tried to incorporate historical facts about the real Vikings while making the game pretty interesting. However the novelty of the historical facts in the game wanes pretty quickly specially for those who are just in it for the game.
Card-Like Battles Anyone?
For those who are wondering about the other interesting aspects of the game, Vikings of Thule has a pretty interesting battle system in place. It’s a variation of the card battle systems you can find in TCGs. The movements and attacks come in card form with the description of how the attack or movement works. Battles happen on a grid like playfield and you’ve got a limited amount of actions per turn.

However, before any battle you are required to pay a certain amount as a “fee” that will in turn become your winnings or your loss, depending on the outcome of the battle. You have weapons and equipment as the stable character stat boost. However the game introduces the use of “runes” as your Viking’s source of “magical” power. Aside from the rune system, you’ll eventually earn yourself a “wight”, a mythical creature that serves as your support in the game. The game’s battle system is pretty challenging, especially when you’re facing other players. That doesn’t mean that you can go easy with NPCs because don’t think of them as pushovers, at least before you have obtained overpowered weapons and equipment.

Go and have an adventure!
Aside from resource allocation and battling other Vikings, the game also has an adventure element in place Gogogic recently introduced a new single player system, adventuring. This new single player system puts your Viking on an adventure to take down a mythical creature named Wyrms.

The adventure is a means for you to earn great rewards if you come out successful. You can even set the adventure’s difficulty so that it matches your character’s level.
Facebook Perks
The other thing I liked about Vikings of Thule is that being a Facebook game, you can post your achievements and rewards on your wall. It adds bragging rights especially if you are the type who has gaming friends and you’d want to brag about your achievements to them in an indirect way.

I also liked the fact that you can easily invite your Facebook friends into the game. The game maximizes everything Facebook has, which can be both a good and a bad thing. The way I see it, the good thing about the Facebook integration is that you can consistently post something on your wall as you play. The bad thing is that you may eventually irritate your friends enough to either ignore you or even delete you from their friends list (worst case scenario). Of course you have the option of not posting your progress on your wall but where’s the fun in that, right?
Vikings of Thule, as I mentioned is a Facebook game, hence you need to have your own Facebook account before you can play. Now I know, in this day and age, it’s pretty rare to find someone who doesn’t have a Facebook account. I honestly think that if the game wasn’t a Facebook game, Vikings of Thule be a harder sell with the amount of browser games out right now.
Conclusion
I think Vikings of Thule has a lot of potential due to its connection to your Facebook account. The game has a lot of interesting features on it that can pretty much keep any player’s interest even if you’re in for the sake of playing something other than the usual myriad of Facebook games out there. I liked that the game doesn’t take much of your time, so that you can play with it for a few minutes and then you’re done with it. Unlike other Facebook games out, Vikings of Thule is the type of game that won’t suck all your time, which can be pretty awesome if you’re working from the office. The game actually keeps me awake during the dull moments in the office. I don’t think a boss would complain about it unless you keep playing the game all day.
Vikings of Thule is a pretty decent game. However it’s not without its own set of faults. The biggest problem the game has in my opinion is that the game’s first impression is that it’s like any other browser type of Facebook game. Jaded players will eventually dismiss the game at first glance without even considering of discovering the fun elements the game has. Once you get past the initial impression, I’m sure you’re in for a fun time with Vikings of Thule.
In a nutshell, Vikings of Thule is a game that I thoroughly enjoy. I liked how all the small tidbits from actual Viking history form into one engaging and very challenging MMOG. If you’re looking for a game that puts Vikings in a new light or searching for something fun in Facebook then Vikings of Thule is the way to go.
Aeria Games Announces Closed Beta Date for Kitsu Saga
Aeria Games Announces Closed Beta Date for Kitsu Saga
Aeria Games, a leading publisher of interactive entertainment, is nearly ready to begin Closed Beta Testing (CBT) for Kitsu Saga, the latest title in its catalog of free-to-play online games. Kitsu Saga, an anime-inspired MMORPG that pairs players with the mischievous and mysterious fox spirits known as Kitsu, is scheduled to begin the CBT phase on October 1, 2010, and will open its doors to certain users who have signed up for the game.

In anticipation of the game reaching this vital milestone, Aeria has launched a content-rich website for Kitsu Saga, where players can learn more about the Kitsu and their world. Filled with in-depth game guides, and sneak peeks via new screenshots and video, players can visit the new website.
Kitsu Saga transforms players into neophyte martial artists, seeking to survive the rigors of training under their faction’s school and become full-fledged warriors to defend their realms from evil. Along the way, they will be joined by the Kitsu, a tribe of helpful foxes descended from a holy nine-tailed spirit. Players will be able to bring the Kitsu’s magic into battle, as well as build relationships with Kitsu for powerful items and artifacts. Players can still get into the CBT until it begins in October, by visiting the official website.
Vindictus Early Access to Open Beta Has Begun
Vindictus Early Access to Open Beta Has Begun
The Early Access to Open Beta phase for Nexon America’s Vindictus has begun, allowing players to redeem their beta keys and jump into a world where they can experience the exciting spear-throwing, environment-shattering, fomor-killing fun.
Vindictus has opened up its servers and introduced several events for players to partake in during the Early Access to Open Beta. Categorized into three groups, “Passion!,” “Power!,” and “Persistence!,” players can participate and show off their skills. Passion! events include:
– Wind through the Ruins: Achieve 190 Battle Points and receive 10 Goddess Grace.
– Final Slingshot: Achieve 165 Battle Points and receive 10 Tokens and 5 Party Revival Feathers.
– Kobold Chief: Achieve 190 Battle Points and receive 10 Goddess Grace.

Players can display their power by obtaining these three titles for 10 seals of dedication each:
– “The Aloof Magician’s Assistant”
– “Whipped by Shayla”
– “Semi-Respecter of the Elderly”
Lastly, players will receive a special capsule containing 100 AP with the completion of the Persistence! event, in which players have to level their character to level 10. Players participating in Early Access to Open Beta will be able to level up their character, collect loot, slash monsters and save all progress when the game goes live. Unlike Closed Beta, all characters created in the early access period and later beta phases will be kept and carried into the live launch of the game.
Vindictus is scheduled to launch later this year, bringing elegant brutality to the online gaming space with stunning visuals and high-speed combat enabled by a modified Source Engine.
All Points Bulletin shuts down just three months after launch
All Points Bulletin shuts down just three months after launch
Neil Kewn (Murxidon) – OnRPG journalist
Realtime Worlds has confirmed that their newly launched MMORPG All Points Bulletin will close despite their best efforts to find a buyer, just three months after the game’s release.
The developers entered administration last month after a lacklustre response to their flagship MMO. Most of the company’s employees lost their jobs following the announcement, with a core team being retained to help run APB. Realtime Worlds were hopeful that a buyer could be found, but it seems as if the plug has been pulled on the online shooter.

The company posted an announcement on the game’s homepage detailing the closure. The game is no longer being sold on the website, and has since been removed from online gaming service Steam. Employees have posted their reaction to the news, and given their final thoughts on the development experience. Ben Hall, who worked as Development QA, said “Press F to apply for Jobseekers Allowance”, the United Kingdom benefits pay-out given to the unemployed.
This is a sad day for MMO gaming. After five years of development the game received a mix reaction upon its release. Players were heavily critical towards the payment model, where customers paid based on how many hours they wished to play for. Even so, the developers did not deserve to lose their jobs just a few months after launch.
According to Eurogamer, the game had 130,000 registered players who paid around $28 a month. It was rumoured that development costs for the game reached over $30 million. The return was not enough to keep the troubled developers from administration, known as bankruptcy in America, and the company now faces liquidation if they do not find a buyer.
An announcement was made via Twitter that the game had gone free to play until the servers were shut down, and encouraged everyone to “enjoy the party”.
Click here to read our thoughts on the game.
Faxion
Faxion is closed
Faxion Online is the highly-anticipated, combat-driven, fully-featured MMORPG that allows players to side with Heaven or Hell in the relentless and devastating struggle between good and evil. The first internally-developed title from UTV True Games, Faxion Online will feature a persistent world with competitive and robust PvP play and territory control with ground-breaking action that strips away the typical “stand and fight” experience and monotonous level grinding found in so many MMORPGs today.
TERA Animated Trailer
The dream has become a nightmare and evil runs rampage. The gods do not lift a finger. Will you?
Pox Nora Review: Successful Hybrid Game
Pox Nora Review: Successful Hybrid Game
By Kei Beneza (dividelife), OnRPG Journalist
Pox Nora is a hybrid MMO game that mixes the elements of strategy games, level up MMOs, and surprisingly, trading card games and miniature gaming. It’s a very weird combination for a video game if you to ask me, at least until I played the game. Mac user? No problem! Yes, Pox Nora can be played on both the PC and Mac. If you still have problems running the client, you can always play the game through your web browser. The game is turn based, much like the old Magic: The Gathering game for the PlayStation 1, where players must summon mythical creatures and powerful spells called runes in order to best their opponents in battle.
Not Your Typical MMO
The game really feels a lot like a digital tabletop game, where players must construct a deck of their own to suit their personal game play. Pox Nora can be enjoyed as a free to play game, but just like any other collectible card game, you will eventually yearn to both personalize the deck and look for combos that are available in the marketplace. You can buy card boxes and booster packs, just like a real collectible card game. Pox Nora also releases new expansions for rebalancing and better game play. What are you waiting for? Download it while reading this!

Starting Up
The in game tutorial is very helpful and explains the basics perfectly, though it’s up to the player to make use of what he’s got, namely his starter deck. The game has some serious depth, like status ailments and ongoing effects, which is why you must study your cards to execute these nasty combos.
Free To Play?
One thing to be stated is that playing the game for free has its limitations. Much like any other CCG, you shouldn’t expect your starter deck to win serious matches. You can still keep playing for free while waiting for player rewards but do know that the other decks you’ll be facing often have better combos (not to mention the presence of Avatars). With that in mind, the game is indeed free to play, but it is also mandatory to purchase booster packs and other cards to play competitively. Card boxes and packs cost as much as real cards by the way, so prepare to dish out some cash.
Campaign Mode
If you’re not content with the tutorials, you can always play the single player campaign mode to learn more about the game as well as earn player rewards (cards) to further customize your deck. Earning cards this way is pretty fun as it allows you to get to know your deck better; however, it can also be considered a form of grinding as you are forced to fight tons of battles to earn something you can get easily for $2.99. Still, I would advise players to try the campaign since it is a good way to familiarize yourself with the different maps in the game. It is also a good way for players to formulate strategies and perform various combos with their provided decks.
Get To Know Your Opponent
Another feature that I absolutely love about Pox Nora is that you can join games as an observer to see other players battle it out. You can pick up various strategies by watching people play. It can also serve as a guide for players who are unsure on what type of deck/army they will be building. Know your opponents! Jump right in, and spy on them.

Deck Building- Treat It Like It’s Real!
Players can customize their decks by accessing Pox Nora’s official website. This makes it easier to manage cards after purchasing booster packs or avatars. There is also the Bazaar room where players can trade their cards and runes.
The Curve
I’m not sure if this game sports the traditional CCG curve but you really have to count your unit’s Nora (Mana, for some games) before casting runes. I’ve experienced tons of shortage in Nora while playing the game, so learn to count your Nora when casting multiple runes. There’s also the AP, which is spent by moving or attacking with your champions as you go on with the game. You wouldn’t want your Champ to be AP-less when you reach one of the enemy’s units, so be careful and calculate stuff before you move.
Graphics and Sounds
The graphics are awesome. They managed to render the miniatures really well, giving you the feeling that you’re actually playing a tabletop game with your mouse and keyboard. The game runs in 2d, using the same isometric bird’s eye view found in most RTS games. There are also tons of spell effects to keep you at the edge of your seat. Some of the artwork is absolutely enthralling, but some is also nasty as hell. As for the sounds, there isn’t much to hear, but the combat sounds are quite crunchy and satisfying. I’m not sure about the BGM since it’s basically just a sound clip being looped over and over again, but it does add more EPIC in your game play. As far as graphics and sounds go, everything is in perfect harmony.

Overall
It’s not really a good substitution for a real CCG, but Pox Nora’s definitely an awesome game. The game is free to play, but will eventually steal your money once you get into it XD. You can still choose to play for free but do know that your starter deck won’t win you serious matches. The graphics are fine, the sounds bode well with the scenario, and I really think this is an awesome hybrid. Honestly, I wouldn’t mind spending money for a game like this as experimenting with combos and effects are fun as hell. CC gaming at the comforts of your home? I’m in.
Pros:
– It’s a great hybrid of 2 genres
– Great visuals for a 2d game
– Epic and satisfying battle sound effects
– Online Market Place
– Trading
– Observer mode
– Great tutorials
Cons:
– FREE TO PLAY MY @SS
– Balance Issues between some cards (then again, it’s a TCG sickness)
– Repetition of BGM is just sickening at times
MicroVolts Launches Second Closed Beta Test
MicroVolts Launches Second Closed Beta Test
Rock Hippo Productions Ltd is pleased to announce that they will host a second closed beta test featuring all new content for MicroVolts, starting September 16th 2010 and continuing through the end of the month. New content players will experience includes a new map, a new mode, new weapons and all-new customization items and much more.

With all of the new content and features, this second closed beta test will offer a completely updated and enhanced MicroVolts gaming experience. New features include:
– New Map: PVC Factory – A mid size map perfect for serious competition
– New Weapons: A Shotgun, Grenade Launcher, Sniper and Gatling Gun are all now available
– Customization Features: A massive amount of new customization items for all characters
– The Club House: A brand-new website update that will become the hub for the MicroVolts community including player profiles, friends list, character stats, player search and many more futre updates
– German and Turkish language versions of the website
MicroVolts features fast paced, third person shooter action and pits players against each other in a secret battle that has been waged and going unnoticed right in our own backyard for years. No one knows for sure when or where the first toy declared war but rumor has it that the uprising began with four original limited edition figures, code named MicroVolts. Battle lines were drawn when Naomi, Knox, Pandora, and C.H.I.P.–the prototypes –were soon joined by an endless number of modified versions. Now, toy figures around the world are engaged in an all-out war for valuable battery resources and supremacy of the Micro World. All we can do now is stay out of their way and wait for a champion to be declared!
With a ton of weapons, inventive character designs, and a huge list of customization features, MicroVolts is destined to invigorate and re-energize the Free2play space. Intuitive controls and a third person view make the game easy to play and fun for both newcomers and veterans of shooter games.