Just got my Rise of Kunark retail box. Let’s see what’s inside of it, shall we?
The picture is pretty self explanatory. Standard stuff for a retail box like this. Three DVDs means only one thing: EQ2 is huge! If you don’t already have a DVD-ROM drive, now is a good time to consider getting one.
And something I discovered while patching, the files from the DVD were pressed onto the disk all the way back in late September. Needless to say, they’re a wee bit out of date.
To quote Gallenite:
It’s been a fantastic beta so far. Thanks to everyone who’s been patiently awaiting the NDA coming down before sharing information with their friends.
As of 4:37pm PST Friday Nov 9, 2007 (a time also known as “right now”) you’re all released from the confidentiality requirements of the Rise of Kunark Beta Non Disclosure Agreement.
May your next days be filled with tales of adventures and triumphs in Kunark, and we’ll see you live next week!
- The EverQuest II Team
Of course, it doesn’t help that the login servers crapped out, but it’s good that the NDA is lifted, and just in time for the weekend.
I’ll keep the spoilers light. Let’s just say if you aren’t already level 70 when the expansion is released, you’re going to have a pretty difficult time; the lowest level mobs (besides in Timorous Deep) are all 68+ in Kylong Plains (the starting area where you first zone into), and 68+ in Fens of Nathsar (the second zone you enter, on the other side of Kylong).
I’ll admit it, this one snuck up on me. I wasn’t expecting it until next week for some reason. Anywho, this is the last Game Update until Rise of Kunark comes out (short of the annual Halloween update, but that isn’t considered part of the Game Update cycle).
So what was all in the update? Let’s see what the patch notes say…
It looks like SOE is taking preorders for Rise of Kunark now. That’s good for the lazy who don’t want to wait for the box. Me? I like waiting for the box.
So here’s a quick rundown of some of the features of Rise of Kunark – All-In-One Compilation.
Taking this one at a time, here’s what I think.
This was pretty much expected since the beginning of time. It was announced long ago, and it’s been nearly two years since a level cap increase. Players are getting bored being at the cap of level 70, and 100 AAs. And there’s only so much you can do to balance new raid content at level 70 without completely overpowering players. So, some breathing room with 10 extra levels is quite welcome.
Wouldn’t be much of an expansion without this.
This is a little bit controversial. I’ll explain in another post. Sufficit to say I don’t think this is a terribly good idea.
Hmm, interesting? I’ve already dumped more money into it than I should have, so essentially this is just a bonus for getting the expansion. But since this is an all-in-one compilation, this is an easy way for SOE to introduce players to their new cash-cow card game. Who knows, players might actually like playing LoN.
For the altaholic, new player, or someone wanting to start over, Sarnak must seem pretty cool. I certainly like the idea myself, though I don’t know if I have the plat funds to start yet another alt. I highly anticipate an immediate rush of new Sarnak once the expansion goes live; you see it whenever a new race/class/whatever is added in MMOs, and EQ2 is/was no different with Frogloks, Fae, Arasai, and Neriak.
As explained at Fan Faire, Timorous Deep is the starting area for Sarnaks. Wouldn’t make too much sense to make a new race without a new starting area (though it did happen for Frogloks).
Also announced earlier. I expect to see people running around on Rhinos shortly after the expansion.
Now this is different! I wonder if it’s preorder only, or if you can get it in the retail box too.
