ZAM's Early Roundup of Upcoming MMOs in 2010
As our 2009 ZAM Awards wrap up this week, we take an early glance at the most-promising MMOs scheduled for launch in 2010.
Hardcore gamers may scoff at the idea of a Lego-branded MMO, but some community members are looking forward to the upcoming Lego Universe more than many other titles. Developed by NetDevil, this cartoonish-looking MMO is meant to be widely-accessible and appropriate for the whole family to play. Lego fans, in particular, are looking forward to the building aspects of the MMO, touted as "easy to learn, difficult to master." Check out our recent preview for a look at the gameplay, and read our Lego Universe Fact Sheet for all the details.
One of the most eagerly-awaited games scheduled for release in 2010 is Global Agenda, the sci-fi themed, hybrid MMOFPS developed by Hi-Rez Studios. With a launch date of Feb. 1, pre-order copies are currently available online, which include special bonuses and beta event access. We've been keeping a close eye on Global Agenda since last year's Penny Arcade Expo, and so far, the MMO's mix of tactical combat and FPS action look extremely enticing. Expect to begin seeing more coverage throughout this month, leading up to its launch date.
AGE OF CONAN: RISE OF THE GODSLAYER
Earlier this summer, FunCom announced the upcoming "Rise of the Godslayer," expansion for the struggling Age of Conan MMO. As a horizontal expansion, "Godslayer" will introduce new, Asian-themed content and gameplay instead of raising the level cap. The heart of the expansion is the new content, centered around the continent of Khitai, although we learned in our interview last summer that the developers will also be tweaking some of the existing gameplay. Will "Godslayer" breathe new life into Age of Conan in 2010? We will find out this spring or summer, when the expansion is scheduled for release. In the mean time, check out the new "Godslayer" video preview, released last month.
For most comic book fans, DC Universe Online is the "big one" that fans have waited years to play; a superhero-themed MMO based on one of the two biggest comic franchises in the world. To these fans, arguments and debates about the merit of previous superhero MMOs simply don't matter. Die-hard comic book fans practically invented the "fanboi" concept, and many of them have been at it since long before today's younger gamers were even a twinkle in their father's eye. When DCUO finally launches (hopefully later this year), the chance to fill the shoes of a superhero in the iconic, established DC universe will finally be realized, and the only question that really matters will be, "As an MMO, is it any good?" And for some fans, even that question won't matter.