Gaming News - January 2005
Dedham, MA (January 31, 2005) - Magic Hat Software today announced
that Irth Online is scheduled for commercial release in the second quarter of
2005, and that beta test applications are now being accepted on the Irth Online
web site.
“We waited until now to make our first public announcement about Irth Online
because we wanted to deliver early content to players rather than just plans and
promises,” said Dennis Robinson, Lead Developer. “Players are encouraged to
apply for our Beta test and help improve not only the future of Irth Online
civilizations, but the quality of the game itself, which is our highest
priority.”
From Magic Hat Software:
Irth Online is a virtual world in which players role play characters in a
free form, fantasy-based storyline. Players join Irth’s history at a period when
a fragile truce exists among the far flung civilizations of the snowy Arcadians
in the north, the southeastern swamps and marshes of Morbus, and the
southwestern tropical region of Mezoteks – and determine the course of history
for each civilization.
The persistent world environment of Irth Online features an open ended skill
system. Players may learn any skill offered in the game without facing
limitations of race or class. Irth Online's advancement system has a unique
skill-over-time feature, allowing all characters to enjoy adventures together,
regardless of experience level.
Player battle and fighting include PvE (Player vs. Environment) and PvP (Player
vs. Player). Also included either at launch (or shortly thereafter) will be
instance-based thievery, looting, and justice, as well as the ability to fully
explore, travel, or wage war on the ground, on the sea, and in the air.
Opportunities for non-warfare gameplay are also offered, along with safe areas
for peaceable players.
Magic Hat Software’s in-house created engine uses the very latest technology in
terms of DirectX9 effect files and vertex and pixel shaders (which include
per-pixel lighting and bump/specular environment maps); allows creation of
highly detailed characters with animation blending; extended visibility for the
player (up to 10 miles in every direction); and unlimited, changeable terrain
size with seamless background resource loading.
Beta Testers Welcomed
Gamers can apply for the Beta test at
www.irthonline.com.
Testers under the age of 18 are welcomed, but must provide parental permission.
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