by Jody - January 11, 2004

Originally released in 1998, EverQuest has come to be the largest MMORPG around. Easily defeating Ultima Online, EverQuest has no limits when it comes to the massively multiplayer online role-playing world. Now, with the release of a large combination of EverQuest games, we see once again how EverQuest rose to fame. With every expansion pack except for Lost Dungeons of Norrath, EverQuest: Evolution has become one of the best buys around.

EverQuest is THE MMORPG.

With EverQuest, anything is possible. The game bases itself on a system where you select race, class, god, etc and embark into the world known as Norrath. Some of the races include the elves, humans, dwarves, trolls, ogres, etc. Once selecting this, you will have to choose how to live your character (class). Some of your choices include magician, druid, ranger, paladin, warrior, etc. Once doing this, you will choose a God (decides your factions and such) and start playing. This time around though, now that you have EverQuest: Evolution, you will begin playing in a larger EverQuest world. With each expansion comes a brand new item into the gameplay. With Ruins of Kunark � we see the new Iksar race and the addition of the continent of Kunark. With Scars of Velious, the continent of Velious has been found � many mysteries are amongst it. Next up is the Shadows of Luclin, which is probably by far the best expansion yet. Adding on the moon of Norrath � Luclin � and a new race (Va�Shir) and class (Beastlord), this expansion is just excellent for any race and class combination.

Exploring Norrath is like exploring the world itself. Everything is constantly changing� if you�ve been to one area awhile back; it�s a lot different the next time you go to it. From just the level design to the NPCs around, nothing stays the same in EverQuest.

Who can compete?

The graphics of EverQuest have taken a drastic change over the years. In it�s original state, they were good enough to stand up and take down Ultima Online and now in today�s time.. they can still compete with the likes of Dark Age of Camelot. With the constant addition of expansion packs, patches, and updates for EverQuest, I don�t think SOE is going to let any MMORPG surpass its greatness.

I have to start admitting this though � despite the constant updates on graphics, the trees still look the same. Other than that though, as long as you keep your resolution and setting up, Norrath is extremely beautiful. I just hate how they have everyone�s sit position now though� why not just sit down and instead of sit on your knees?

The beautiful tone of EverQuest.

From the music logging into Norrath to just wandering through Rivervale, EverQuest�s audio is something that you will never forget. It�s just the audio in a game that makes you truly remember it � and that�s why you can now download the EverQuest theme onto your phone as a ring tone!

FUN for all!

EverQuest is by far the most addictive and most fun game that I have ever played in my life. When you want something; setting out to get it (rather it be an item or a level), this will make you keep playing for up to the longest hours. Venturing through Norrath with only your spell book, armor, sword, and knowledge of the area around you, things can heat up. That�s why the ability to get in groups makes this game even more fun. If you�re 6 levels above or below your group members � you can now group with them! If you�re more than that though, you may still group, but you will not gain experience.

If you like MMORPGs, EverQuest is the game for you.

In the end, EverQuest has always been here for us, and with the release of this expansion, it�s still here. Ever since it�s debut in 1998, EverQuest has been taking the world by storm � obliterating every MMORPG in its path. If you have a soft spot for MMORPGs and somehow haven�t played EverQuest, you�re missing out on the entire genre.