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MMObility: How RuneScape's Evolution of Combat changed my game
RuneScape has long been a favorite of mine, but I have to admit to being more of an explorer than anything. Combat was always sort of sluggish and tedious. It just wasn't very exciting. I see so many comments from players who AFK, watch television, or play a second game while simultaneously grinding in RuneScape. Luckily RuneScape is a living, breathing, open MMO that comes from the olden times of MMOs but still adds on new bits of design and updated systems. There aren't many other MMOs that are updated as often as RuneScape, and hardly any of them provides as much to do. Along comes The Evolution of Combat. Jagex has called it the biggest thing to happen to RuneScape, probably ever, and after playing with it for a few day, I tend to agree. What does it change, though, and why do I enjoy it so much? Let me tell you.
RuneScape opens Evolution of Combat beta this weekend
Much has been said about RuneScape's upcoming combat upgrade, and this weekend, folks will have the chance to test out The Evolution of Combat for themselves. Starting at 5 a.m EDT on Friday, July 6th, and lasting until 5 a.m. EDT on Monday the 9th, all RuneScape members will be able to join the 50,000 current beta testers in playtesting the new features like dual-wielding. If you happen to miss this one, don't worry -- three more open beta weekends will follow. However, players whot manage to take part in all four weekends will be rewarded with a unique mad scientist outfit. For more about the upcoming changes, check out Massively's interview with Mark Ogilvie, Lead Designer from Jagex. [Source: Jagex press release]
RuneScape reveals dual-wielding in sixth behind-the-scenes video
Last month, Jagex revealed that a whole new combat system was on its way for the browser-based fantasy game RuneScape. Since then, players have been treated to more details about the upcoming changes in behind-the-scenes videos. Today's installment, the sixth and final one in the series, reveals a fundamental change to the combat system: dual-wielding. Now players can sacrifice a shield's defense to go all out for damage. However, this dual-wielding system is unique. RuneScape is giving dual-wielding abilities to more than just those who prefer blades by making it available to magic users and ranged combatants as well. Players can dual-wield magic, ranged, melee, or mix and match any combination. Another less dramatic change includes improved weapon stances, which add a casual stance to sheathed and attack positions. The stances also are individualized for different weapons. Finally, the devs have upgraded avatar models to include actual fingers. To see a demonstration of these changes, you can watch the video. And for even more details about The Evolution of Combat, check out Massively's interview with Lead Designer Mark Ogilvie. [Thanks to Sean for the tip!]
The Evolution of Combat coming to RuneScape for player testing June 26th
What words are music to players' ears? "Biggest content update in its history." And RuneScape fans are getting just that! Jagex announced today that a massive content update bringing the all-new combat system, dubbed The Evolution of Combat, is on its way to the free-to-play fantasy game. The game-altering new system is promised to be more immersive and more involving. Lead Designer Mark Ogilvie noted that a combat revamp was the community's most requested update and he emphasized the value of community feedback. To garner more feedback, Jagex is offering RuneScape members the opportunity to test the update starting June 26th. This limited-access beta will then run through September, giving beta participants the chance to help "shape the future of one of the most important elements of the game." For the opportunity to participate in this exclusive combat system beta, players need to be an existing member of RuneScape or sign up for membership on the official site by June 1st. [Source: Press release]
