EverQuest II (PC)
EverCrack Comeback
By Libe Goad

At long last, the notorious “EverCrack” will reach sequel status, as EverQuest II is set for release Winter 2003.

That means, instead of yet another expansion pack introducing new monsters and continents, gamers will be transported into a parallel EverQuest universe, which takes place 500 years after the original. That means, EQ old-timers will have the chance to start over fresh, and newbies who have yet to catch the massively multiplayer online role-playing game (MMORPG) wave will have their chance.

Players who enter Norrath will be able to customize characters in ways that the EQ world has yet to witness. Instead of simply choosing a race, you’ll be able to customize your avatar’s face, age, skin tone, and eye and hair color using a slider system that will allow you to create shades of difference. In addition, you’ll be able to choose a character from 16 races and 48 classes and during gameplay, will be able to pick up thousands of armor, weapons and other items.

Every element from the original EverQuest will be enhanced—graphics, interface, quest systems, combat—and now those who prefer to stay off the battlefield can choose a character with a trade skill player class. EQII will also allow for player-owned real estate—apartments, homes, guild houses—and player-controlled ships.

We were privvy to a brief demonstration of EQII at E3 this year. The most noticeable change in the game will be, of course, the graphical superiority to EQ. Otherwise, look for improvements on everything you loved about the original game. When the time comes, we’ll be looking for you on the other side of the moon.