VenusGaming

Today, IGN brought my attention to an up and coming online MMORPG: Dragonica Online. The first game produced by a joint venture of THQ and ICE, Dragonica Online has just cracked into beta stage, and has launched their website to the public today. If you’re eager to beta test, register now - beta is currently “invite only.”

According to the official website, Dragonica offers these game features:

• 3D scrolling movement
• Fast paced combat with unique class skills, advanced skills, and combo chains
• Public and private questing areas
• Free For All, Team-Based, and Objective-based PvP modes
• Advanced and “hidden” job classes
• Customizable player housing
• Updated content and in-game events

Unfortunately, the story is very cliche fantasy:

Since the end of the Dragon War, the worlds of Humans and Dragons have been separated for centuries by an uneasy truce. Now a sinister force spreads throughout the land, sowing corruption and chaos. Only the combined power of the two races can stop the evil from destroying both worlds.

Although I definitely like the art style (soft, cartoonish, semi-anime), the fact remains it’s yet another Asian free-to-play MMO import, and is thus likely to fade into obscurity like so many other import MMOs of its kind. The fault of these games is often a combination of overpopulation, underdevelopment, and the infamous “cloning” that makes most games seem like they came out of the same developer’s basement.

Although I’ll give it a try - like I always do for these free MMOs - I don’t have many hopes for this “unique” joint-venture program. And yet, oddly enough, IGN sings its praises - but then again, this is IGN we’re talking about. I will provide updates as possible.