Photo courtesy of Nexon
First Look: MapleStory 2 exhibits vibrant world, 3D graphics
0
0
“MapleStory 2” is a massive mutliplayer online role-playing game released in October by Nexon. It is set in a colorful, 3D isometric world where players’ characters go on adventures with others to fight monsters and complete quests. “MapleStory 2” is the sequel to the 2003 “MapleStory” game, featuring many of the same non-player characters (NPCs) and monsters with changes made to their designs and stories. The game offers various features for players to tinker with, including an open world, a black market, mini games, and customizable homes.
Players can choose from nine classes: Runeblade, Archer, Assassin, Berserker, Heavy Gunner, Knight, Priest, Thief, and Wizard. Each of these classes specialize in melee, ranged, or mixed combat styles and draw their power from different stats: strength, dexterity, luck, and intelligence. Players are given many options to personalize their character’s appearance, allowing them an outlet to express their individuality. They can choose their gender and pick from different hairstyles, skin colors, eyes, and clothing. As players progress further in the game, they can design their own outfits and dye equipment in-game, creating endless possibilities for unique looks.
The game focuses heavily on player-to-player interactions with party quests, boss raids, clubs, and guilds. Players can easily queue to find other players to do party quests with, which helps facilitate the process of looking for others to fight alongside in dungeons. For those seeking to test their abilities, players can engage in direct combat with other players or prove themselves in server-wide mini games that examine their mechanical skills.
“MapleStory 2” provides an immersive experience for players with many of its intricate details. Players can follow along the main questline and read its stories by watching cutscenes and conversing with NPCs. Characters and NPCs come with their own voices, enhancing the interactive experience. The game’s collection of background music shows off a wide variety of styles such as dubstep, ‘90s pop, and neo-orchestral and Celtic music.
“MapleStory 2” is available for download on Steam.
