• Publisher: 989 Studios
• Developer: 989 Studios
• Format: PC
• Genre: First Person Online RPG
• Players: Multiplayer
• System Requirements: 166 Mhz PC, 32 MB Ram, 500 MB HD space, 4X CD, 28.8 modem, 3D Accelerator
• Recommended: P 200 Mhz, 64 Mb Ram

• Graphics: 9/10
• Sound: 7/10
• Control: 8/10
• Gameplay: 9/10
• Overall: 8/10
• Reviewer: Ragnarok the Red
• Reviewed On: 5.21.99

• Everquest Home Page

There's a reason this game REQUIRES an accelerator. Trying to play it on the software-type rendering quickly becomes an experience nastier than gazing at that Troll's ugly mug. I run mine off 3Dfx rendering, which comes off VERY smoothly even at 640X480. The various monsters and animals all animate very smoothly, the other bipedal humanoid type characters also move quite well, while the spell effects, especially in the later levels, are a beauty to behold. A few minor gripes, however. There is limited number of body shape sizes, essentially all the males and females of a particular race are shaped the same. Also the number of faces is limited to 8 per race, per sex. And, though it seems trivial, them square-shaped trees is funny lookin'.

The sound, or lack thereof, is this game's biggest weakpoint. Sure, their are a few really nice tracks, especially at the logging on screen which has a very adventurous flair. But a good part of the game, you are walking/running around in complete silence. With only the same ol' battle theme repeating itself at every encounter and the occasional tune chiming in, neither being particularly obtrusive, despite being more than a little repetitious. The swing of weapons will occasional sound in during combat and some of the spell effects are nice if a little weak. But for a game like this, which you will DEFINITELY be putting alot of time into, the lack of music may be good, as it would probably get old after awhile. Or am I just using it as an excuse because the rest of the game is so great? Hmmm...

It seems that nowadays, many a PC game are using a combination of both the mouse and keyboard, in this case however, it works. The mouse functions to click onscreen buttons, like summoning spells, equipping, etc. While one moves around using either the arrows or number pad on the keyboard. Each race, save for humans (primitive are we not?) has the ability to speak to one another using they're common tongue, appearing as jibberish to others closebye. Also the lower left-hand corner onscreen, keypad buttons can be set as hotkeys, which will perform the programmed function. Though conversing in the game is relatively smooth, accidentally hitting the auto-attack button "a" before pressing "enter" to type can cause you to attack a targeted friendly PC or NPC mistakenly. This will happen often early in the game, and will result in a very quick and painful death, as most NPC's are exponentially stronger than you at the get-go.

This is where Everquest truly shines. Its as though Ultima Online was the beta test for this MUD, and many problems which plagued UO have been dealt with accordingly in this game or removed alltogether, resulting in a much more enjoyable experience. For one thing, P-Killing, the mother of all killjoys, is reserved to only those who CHOOSE to be player killers. Non-PK'ers can't be harmed, resulting in a greater sense of comradery, friendship, and trust in the game. Also characters are true to class ala D&D, IE: Wizards do what wizards are supposed to do, cast powerful spells, but wear paper-thin armor and may only wield daggers and staffs. Fighters are lumbering thugs, capable of inflicting much physical punishment, but couldn't read a spellbook if their life depended on it. Leveling up and gettig money is an arduous and time-consuming process, you will be killing many a rat early on (at least around Queynos). But get up there in levels and you'll be able to team up with others and tackle tough dungeons, where experience and treasure will be found in bulk quantities in and around the more powerful foes. At the expense of all the things done right, is some limitations to go along with all the freedom. Dont be expecting to be buying houses, boats, or ruling cities. You won't be one place long enough to get settled. After all, this game is all about adventure and exploration, and you'll always be on the move. Also, expect to learn more from playing and interacting with others, as the manual does little to help you get started. After the extensive backstory of Norrath, the instructions regarding the races and how to play are pretty bare-boned. There's an awful lot in the strategy guide that SHOULD'VE been in the instruction booklet. Now thats just wrong...

Despite the lack of much of a musical score and poorly-written manual, it can't take much away from the best online RPG to date. The great graphics, smooth control, and fun to be found in this game are as limitless as the imaginations of the thousands of online players you'll be interacting with. So grab that walking stick and ready some rations, your adventures await!