by Chris Ware on Oct 21, 2010
EQ2X is also among the most heavily gated of the recent AAA conversions, requiring some form of payment to access most of even the more basic features
Players are initially restricted to 4 of the 19 available races and 8
of the 24 available classes. Upgrading to a monthly subscription
unlocks all the classes and upgrading to a pre-paid yearly plan unlocks
all races and classes. Those who wish to stay away from a subscription
can unlock both via the Station Store. With the exception of some
casters at low level, each class feels fairly unique.
EQ2X features a dynamic combat system that works well in both solo and
group play.
Unlike EQ1 before it, EQ2X allows players to put all their available
spells on hotbars, and basic spell and ability upgrades are learned
automatically upon reaching the required level no hunting or scribing
necessary to get the base power. EQ2X employs a Heroic Opportunity
system that can be triggered in solo or group play, allowing for some
massive damage when abilities are used in the correct sequence and
timeframe.
One of the most interesting aspects of EQ2X is a direct descendant of
its predecessor, EverQuest Alternate Advancement. Like most features
that are found in both games, the EQ2X version is expanded and
improved. Alternate Advancement allows players to continue to gain
levels and power even after theyve reached the traditional level cap.
Combat experience can be adjusted via a slider to grant any combination
of AA or level XP, provided you are not a basic member basics are
restricted to a 50/50 split. There are several trees available to spend
points in, as well as selections that are offered at various level
increments. Like most other aspects of EQ2X, this process can be as
simple or as complex as the player wants to make it with results doing
everything from providing a bit of flavor to creating powerful
combinations.
In addition to common forms of currency, EQ2X features a status system
that rewards players for their heroic deeds. Status can be gained in
several ways and is used to purchase and maintain player housing as
well as for purchasing unique in game items that typically pertain to
housing, tradeskills or titles.
Guilds in EQ2X are dynamic and evolving, gaining levels and status and
have their own unique housing the Guild Hall. Guild Halls serve a
myriad of purposes and range from smaller 5 room buildings to large
castles. More advanced guilds are able to stock their halls with
merchants, crafting stations, bind locations and other various
amenities.
Living up to its name, the real strength of EQ2X lies in the more than
6,000 discovered quests. Boasting everything from kill 10 rats to
level-spanning epics and everything in between, questing is the heart
of EQ2X. Quests are separated by adventuring, collection and tradeskill
and are easily tracked in the quest log. Most quest locations and NPCs
are viewable in both the mini-map or the main map and players can opt
to let a glowing trail lead them to their destination. Questing is
hands down the best way to gain experience in the game even if the gear
rewards are somewhat lacking.
Crafting in EQ2X is so robust that players gain artisan experience and
levels as they progress. Crafters are required to specialize in one
area, but can create basic items from all areas as they level up. With
a dynamic system that requires attention and active participation,
crafting is more than just a time to take an AFK and can result in some
powerful items when done to perfection.
Few computers were capable of running EQ2 at full settings when it was
first released, and in the 6 years since most systems are just now able
to handle its graphics at higher quality settings without dying a
horrible lag-infested death. The world of Norrath is beautifully
rendered and everything from flora and fauna to water textures are
configurable here. Player models have undergone a revamping since
release, with many races having an alternate appearance available. Low
level armor and weapons look haggard and boring, but it is by design
higher end items are stunning.
EQ2X allows players to select appearance items to help set them apart
from each other. These weapons, armor items and adornments have no
statistical values and are equipped via a separate window. Mounts are
also available in appearance form, allowing players to determine how
they are viewed in nearly all aspects
With 6 expansions under its belt,
style="font-style: italic;">EverQuest II has
already
shown its resilience and ability to evolve and adapt. While no game is
immune
to aging, SOE has breathed new life into the franchise with the
addition of the
EverQuest II Extended
free-to-play server and there is no reason to think that
the game is going away any time soon, especially given the track record
and longevity
of the original.
Cons