Gamertell

Cryptic Studios was in a party mood on Friday night (August 29, 2008) of PAX, hosting a big shindig at Seattle’s Public Library.  Since Cryptic was celebrating the soon-to-be released Champions Online, there were superheroes present. 

For example, a man in a tuxedo and mask checked for my invitation, while a man wearing a padded suit of fake muscles stood by as a fake bouncer.  I was given a lone-ranger style mask, and joined the party. 

I learned a lot about the Champions Online game.  At first I was wondering how it was different from City of Heroes, a game also designed by Cryptic.  I discovered that Champions Online does some things that City does not. 

First, Champions Online has a very interactive environment as a player can pick up, destroy, and throw objects.  Second, the world of Champions doesn’t just take place in just a city, but across the entire world.  There are even some galactic adventures, but they didn’t go into detail about it. 

One of the most unique features that sets Champions Online apart from any MMORPG is that it allows you to create your own arch nemesis.  This “greatest enemy” will then show up as you level up, and he (or she) will be your Lex Luthor to your Superman. 

Some of you might recognize the name of Champions as a Role-Playing Game from the eighties.  As it so happens, Cryptic bought the franchise and set the game in this very well-developed universe and will remain true to it. 

The excitement begins in Spring 2009, and will be available on both PC and Xbox 360, which could be an industry first for an MMO.