Sony Online Entertainment said Tuesday that a new "free adventure service" is heading to EverQuest II. Called EverQuest II Extended, the new service will provide access to premium-subscription quality content through a free-to-play and optional paid membership levels. A new web-based download application will also be introduced, making it easier for players to jump into the game rather than waiting on extensive downloads.
"Players can register within minutes, download the client to join other people in an epic journey, and launch into adventure in a fantastical online 3D world," SOE stated in a press release. "Extended is the ultimate MMORPG experience. Excitement with every breath and adventure around every turn is now available for free!"
According to SOE, gamers can play Extended without needing to purchase software, use a credit card, or be required to take on a subscription. Extended will also grant players access to all EverQuest II gaming zones through The Shadow Odyssey. A Marketplace will be available for purchasing power-up potions, armor, classes, races, weapons, mounts and more.
But wait! There's more! "Both EverQuest II and Extended players will enjoy a plethora of recent user-interface improvements designed to improve functionality and game navigation," SOE said. "Players will experience a new and improved character progression through the Golden Path while creating their own legend with the Storyteller adventure journal that visually displays quest exploration. Additionally, both titles received a graphics quality update that gives a more realistic immersive experience to fully enjoy the beauty of Norrrath."
To learn about Extended's multiple tiers of service, head here. Extended is scheduled for a beta launch "on or around" August 17, 2010.
