Colosseum is Now Hiring!
The Darkveil Colosseum is looking for Taskmasters! Any and all persons interested in scheduling the most entertaining fights this side of the city walls should contact Altros Dages for more information. We're looking for reliable, regular, enthusiastic heroes to orchestrate the greatest battles of our time!
Current opening include operators for the following leagues: All class leagues (except Hunters and Jugglers), Groups, and Clans.
New World Things!
Take a look at this exclusive* interview with Darkblade, the game admin for WoD.net!
*Exclusivity of the content below has not been confirmed, endorsed, or supported by WoD Management and is used solely for advertising purposes.
WH: So, Darkveil has been rolled out on the old framework. What can we expect out of Darkveil that wasn't around in Caledonii?
DB: The original framework is still around. Even the "new" world is based on old framework, but with newer content. Some of the changes we have already started migrating to Darkveil.
Race names and especially the description updates.
New Legend medals as well, although the start with those was a bit shaky. They are now moved to the player creation routine so they are assigned automatically.
Adventures are also being utilized. I wanted to start using these for crafting, especially for players to have something to do besides marketing between the dungeon explorations.
Battlefields are also coming. This is a feature that will allow clans to enter a battlefield (on a map) and try to complete objectives to gain points.
WH: Adventures sound great so far! Can you break down the design goal of adventuring a bit?
DB: I had originally planned to just abuse them to create a working crafting. The framework has always been there, but was regarded by the owner as "highly buggy". For example the reason most players can see crafting adventures they should not normally see is because players in their groups were triggering it with their hero class / race. We have fixed that now by allowing all in, but in the first level we filter out the players who should not be in it. Not a pretty solution, but effective.
Cerise took it to the next level by creating a very extensive adventure to rescue Father Wuel. I can let you know that some people do know "how to complete it", but that does not mean that they have gotten all bonuses out of the adventure. There are lots of twists that have nothing to do with the completion, and reward the heroes even more.
Cerise, Black_Phoenix and myself have been really hammering away at the adventures to push them to their limits, documenting as we go, to feel out whats broken, and what works.
WH: So, we can craft equipment...will that replace end-game items with custom crafted gear that make heroes super strong?
DB:Some items will never be replaceable *strokes the Kooors blades of damnation* my precioussssssss.
Custom crafted gear is geared towards the classes and races that can use that particular crafting directly, but we also have the Tanners, who will be able to make armor for just about anyone. This armor wont replace the best in game, but it will be upgrade-able to help bridge over those long gaps where there is nothing on the market, and nothing useful in the drops.
WH: I think we all noticed that race names changed. Has anything else changed about the world we know and love?
DB:More stuff to come to know and love will be added regularly now. I have been trying to balance it out a bit to not release too much, too fast.
WH: Is any new content being tested out in Darkveil that will help with the design process for the next new world?
DB: Yes, we are really pushing the framework to be certain that we are able to give the players as much to enjoy as possible.
Bashing Heads: Finding Success in the Colosseum
Want to do better in the arena? Check out these tips and insights from scout327, the current Champion of the Young Bloods League! While you're at it, register for a league today at the Colosseum!
WH: So, you've been doing quite well in the Colosseum at the start of this world (including beating up on Darkblade!). What's your secret?
S: My secret is spinach.
Nah, kidding, my secret is playing a strong class and having a good equipment. There's not a lot of options in settings and skills early on, so this two things are the most important by far.
WH: Are barbarians just super strong in low level duels, or is there something specific you need to focus on in order to be successful.
S: Barbarians are the strongest class by a long shot in low levels. As everyone has a similar skillset at the beggining (offensive skill + defensive skill), the amount of hitpoints makes the diference and barbarians have tons of them.
WH: Do you think you'll "fall off" in effectiveness at a certain point in duels? How do you balance contributing in dungeons and winning duels?
S: Definitely. For example, in duels makes sense to invest both in offense and defense, but in dungeons going full attack is generally better. I will probably focus on dungeons, because succeeding in dungeons means better equipment and hopefully that allows me to keep winning even with a weaker dueling build.
WH: How can a new player try to stay relevant in both scenes? Are certain builds better? For example, can a barbarian focusing on roundhouse be a strong duelist?
S: Unless you invest a lot of points in a multiple target skill like roundhouse or cut-throat (Not worth in my opinion, because mana becomes a huge issue) you will stay relevant in the arena. You wont be as strong as with a pure dueling build, but most of your opponents wont be using that build either.
Using variable EP and switching equipment can make a huge diference in some cases.
WH: Any final words of encouragement for anyone new to the dueling scene?
S: Challenge people of similar strength. Losing over and over against stronger opponents can get boring fast, while winning against weaker opponents wont teach you anything. Plus that means closer and more exciting duels.
Dont be afraid to ask for advice, I learnt one basic thing yesterday from my direct competitor in the leaderboard, that means most people is willing to help anyone.
RE-RUN: The Herald Wants YOU!
Got an interesting build you'd like to share? An idea you want to get out there? Too much bundled up creativity and no outlet? The Herald is looking for interviewees. To sign up, send a message to Jasvyr and shout your glorious information to the world (figuratively...there's no yelling allowed in journalism...)!!! Seriously, message me in game, I want to interview you (assuming you have something even REMOTELY interesting to say)!
Tuesday, June 10, 2014
Friday, February 1, 2013
Ninth Edition - January 2013
RE-RUN: WoD Herald - Who wants to participate?
If anyone is interested in writing an article for the Herald, message me with your topic, and if it sounds fun, I'll invite you to wow me with your compositional competence!
Simply message me, Jasvyr, in WoD on Caledonii to give it a shot! (No guarantee an article will be run, of course...the big guys upstairs have to approve and all...)
As always, happy dungeoneering!
Breaking News - Design Members Needed!
The administrators of WoD .net are looking for some capable hands to assist with development for the new world! To apply, simply message Code_Red (type Darkblade@Testworld into your message "To:" field), including the following information:
1. In-game name.
2. Age.
3. Years of experience in WoD.
4. Gaming experience in general.
5. Brief information about you that makes you a great addition to the design team!
All designers hold a lot of sway as to how the new worlds develop, and there are some other great benefits, too!
Caledonii Wind-Down - What's Left?
Well, dear readers, as you all know, our beloved world of Caledonii is on its down-slope. So then, why continue on? Why drudge drearily through the musty mire of a lost land?
Fear not! There is much yet to be done whilst we wait (im)patiently for the next rebirth! Read on to see what new challenges await while we...well, wait!
Arenas: Master your class, race, and your opponents in the myriad arenas. Simply register for the arena league of your choice and whack, cast, summon, sing, or heal away against the mightiest opponents of the land!
Mini Groups: Tired of your massive level 40 group? Just restart with brand new characters of different class and race combinations! Were you the healer of your last group, but your real calling is standing in the front lines, taking a beating and shouting back your rage with word and axe? This is fun the whole group can enjoy!
Optimization: Though the classes and races are changing a bit in the next world, it never hurts to familiarize yourself more deeply with the game mechanics by tweaking your character into the unstoppable behemoth you always wanted him or her to be. Go ahead, try to get your Knight up to a +100 bonus to social attacks, and get that Juggler the 70 agility he always craved!
As you can see, dear readers, there are still countless hours to be spent wandering the wastes of our plentiful plane. Enjoy the mischievous monsters and hardy heroes to their fullest, and prepare yourselves for the world to come!
New World Class Preview!
WH: So, new magic users just got a teaser. What can we expect to see(r) in the new world?
DB: A very distinct separation of the schools of magic depending on the sub-class the player chooses. The seers will branch off into their individual elemental specifications, whereas the mages will branch into either arcane support, illusion, or necromancy.
Each of these new classes has unique spells to compliment the players class choice.
WH: What about the mage? Are his abilities totally changing?
DB: The mage that we once knew is no more in the sense that everything has been re-written.
WH: What's our non-premium option? How will that class play in comparison to the others?
DB: The free class mages apprentice still has some of the skills we have become used to over the years, and still packs quite a punch. More experienced players will definitely lean toward the mage and seer, as these classes offer new challenges and benefits for the group. The Mages Apprentice, will however have more base HP than the Seer or Mage.
WH: Are all the classes being overhauled like the magic classes? Can you give some examples of similar changes?
DB: Not all of the classes will be changed as drastically as the mage classes have been. Archer and Hunter will also see a new separation of their skills and use within the group.
WH: What will all these changes do to item balance? Won't skill be super overpowered with item?
DB: With the "old" items we had, I am certain that the item balance would be overpowered in some cases. However all items are being redesigned from scratch as well. Having started with the classes and races, we now have a clear overview of what is pushing which skill or bonus, and can design the items accordingly to make sure no see-sawing occurs. We will be introducing new top-of-the-line gear to compliment the hero classes and races.
WH: Thanks for your time!
RE-RUN: The Herald Wants YOU!
Got an interesting build you'd like to share? An idea you want to get out there? Too much bundled up creativity and no outlet? The Herald is looking for interviewees. To sign up, send a message to Jasvyr and shout your glorious information to the world (figuratively...there's no yelling allowed in journalism...)!!! Seriously, message me in game, I want to interview you (assuming you have something even REMOTELY interesting to say)!
If anyone is interested in writing an article for the Herald, message me with your topic, and if it sounds fun, I'll invite you to wow me with your compositional competence!
Simply message me, Jasvyr, in WoD on Caledonii to give it a shot! (No guarantee an article will be run, of course...the big guys upstairs have to approve and all...)
As always, happy dungeoneering!
Breaking News - Design Members Needed!
The administrators of WoD .net are looking for some capable hands to assist with development for the new world! To apply, simply message Code_Red (type Darkblade@Testworld into your message "To:" field), including the following information:
1. In-game name.
2. Age.
3. Years of experience in WoD.
4. Gaming experience in general.
5. Brief information about you that makes you a great addition to the design team!
All designers hold a lot of sway as to how the new worlds develop, and there are some other great benefits, too!
Caledonii Wind-Down - What's Left?
Well, dear readers, as you all know, our beloved world of Caledonii is on its down-slope. So then, why continue on? Why drudge drearily through the musty mire of a lost land?
Fear not! There is much yet to be done whilst we wait (im)patiently for the next rebirth! Read on to see what new challenges await while we...well, wait!
Arenas: Master your class, race, and your opponents in the myriad arenas. Simply register for the arena league of your choice and whack, cast, summon, sing, or heal away against the mightiest opponents of the land!
Mini Groups: Tired of your massive level 40 group? Just restart with brand new characters of different class and race combinations! Were you the healer of your last group, but your real calling is standing in the front lines, taking a beating and shouting back your rage with word and axe? This is fun the whole group can enjoy!
Optimization: Though the classes and races are changing a bit in the next world, it never hurts to familiarize yourself more deeply with the game mechanics by tweaking your character into the unstoppable behemoth you always wanted him or her to be. Go ahead, try to get your Knight up to a +100 bonus to social attacks, and get that Juggler the 70 agility he always craved!
As you can see, dear readers, there are still countless hours to be spent wandering the wastes of our plentiful plane. Enjoy the mischievous monsters and hardy heroes to their fullest, and prepare yourselves for the world to come!
New World Class Preview!
WH: So, new magic users just got a teaser. What can we expect to see(r) in the new world?
DB: A very distinct separation of the schools of magic depending on the sub-class the player chooses. The seers will branch off into their individual elemental specifications, whereas the mages will branch into either arcane support, illusion, or necromancy.
Each of these new classes has unique spells to compliment the players class choice.
WH: What about the mage? Are his abilities totally changing?
DB: The mage that we once knew is no more in the sense that everything has been re-written.
WH: What's our non-premium option? How will that class play in comparison to the others?
DB: The free class mages apprentice still has some of the skills we have become used to over the years, and still packs quite a punch. More experienced players will definitely lean toward the mage and seer, as these classes offer new challenges and benefits for the group. The Mages Apprentice, will however have more base HP than the Seer or Mage.
WH: Are all the classes being overhauled like the magic classes? Can you give some examples of similar changes?
DB: Not all of the classes will be changed as drastically as the mage classes have been. Archer and Hunter will also see a new separation of their skills and use within the group.
WH: What will all these changes do to item balance? Won't skill be super overpowered with item?
DB: With the "old" items we had, I am certain that the item balance would be overpowered in some cases. However all items are being redesigned from scratch as well. Having started with the classes and races, we now have a clear overview of what is pushing which skill or bonus, and can design the items accordingly to make sure no see-sawing occurs. We will be introducing new top-of-the-line gear to compliment the hero classes and races.
WH: Thanks for your time!
RE-RUN: The Herald Wants YOU!
Got an interesting build you'd like to share? An idea you want to get out there? Too much bundled up creativity and no outlet? The Herald is looking for interviewees. To sign up, send a message to Jasvyr and shout your glorious information to the world (figuratively...there's no yelling allowed in journalism...)!!! Seriously, message me in game, I want to interview you (assuming you have something even REMOTELY interesting to say)!
Friday, July 6, 2012
Eighth Edition - July 2012
RE-RUN: WoD Herald - Who wants to participate?
If anyone is interested in writing an article for the Herald, message me with your topic, and if it sounds fun, I'll invite you to wow me with your compositional competence!
Simply message me, Jasvyr, in WoD on Caledonii or Aberon to give it a shot! (No guarantee an article will be run, of course...the big guys upstairs have to approve and all...)
As always, happy dungeoneering!
Haiku and Banner Competitions - Winners Decided!
Finally, after a long and arduous judging process (and maybe a, uh, "dropped ball"...or two), the winners for the Haiku and Banner competition have been decided and are ready for your review, fine readers!
Also, this means all those nifty (see: useless) blank haiku in your treasure vaults and cellars are now enchanted! Go see what you've found!
In the Haiku Competition, we were treated to over forty unique and inspired entries from twenty fine poets, the best of which were singled out below. All participants will receive a Sha-Jin Haiku. Those who had their haiku chosen will receive a copy of their haiku, plus 5x Rice Wine and 5x Chop Suey. The top three haikus selected by our panel will further receive an additional haiku of their choice and a free greater emblem!
Jinxed - First Place - by weekend player
Line Dot Block - Second Place - by Dogtagz
Blood on the Sand - Third Place - by Jasmine
Resolute - by Tacheron
Words Words Words - by Squalor
True Cold - by 137ben
Scholar's Prayer - by Nexxi
Pirate's Vocabulary - by iknowwhoiam
Lamb to the Slaughter - by Edwin
Juggler's Gambol - by SamIAm8
Healer's Banquet - by Captaincritical
Hard as Nails - by Shao`Sa`Vire
Glass Cannon - by shadowice
Divine Protection - by Janaya
Ambush Risks - by Lazarony
The banner competition saw four great submissions by two aspiring artists, with the following three banners being chosen. Cerise has been awarded a full three months of free premium account time (the equivalent of 150 sapphires)! Both artists will receive copies of the banners they designed, and the same 5x Rice Wine and 5x Chop Suey as the haiku competition.
Sha-Jin Banner of the Spirits (artwork by cerise)
Sha-Jin Banner of the White Rhino (artwork by Lazarony)
Sha-Jin Banner of the Red Monkey (artwork by cerise)
All winners and contributors should open a trade with Aphelion to claim their prizes. Please be patient, it may take a week to get the prizes handed out.
Congratulations to all our participants!
RE-RUN: Intra-Clan Leagues
What better way to show the close bond you've developed with your clan-mates than to brutally assault them on a semi-regular basis?
Sign up for a clan-league now with Jasmine!
Caledonii League Run-Down - Groups - 2000
With the world winding down, more teams from the so-called "middle of the pack" have started to emerge in the the famed Groups League to take their shot at the reigning champions. This time around, in the upper division, The Body Snatchers and Lucky XIII traded rounds, with the former lower division winner bringing their "A" game to the first round, and the long-time upper division powerhouse taking the second match. Strong performances from Jels and Kymara against a shorthanded Lucky XIII sealed an undefeated first round for TBS, but a full-strength Lucky XIII were not to be denied in round two.
Old Friends solidly won the lower division, with Suicidal Thinking and Mercury Falls taking second and third, respectively.
New World Features New Classes!
WH: So, we're all waiting with bated breath for more information on the new world, especially classes. Anything you'd care to share with us about what the newly introduced classes are going to be?
D: Currently, we are working on the spellcasting block of the classes: Mages Apprentice, Mage, and Seer. All of these 3 will have the basic ability to cast ice, fire and energy based spells, with each having its own specialized role:
The Seer will be the true "Elementalist" type class that can cast more types of those spells, and will have sub-classes that pertain directly to their element of choice.
The Mage will be a reagent and book spellcaster type similar to old-school D&D gaming, with spells such as: firefly, hold trap, hold person, shocking grasp, burning hands, and vampiric touch. The sub-classes here vary between control, support, and raw damage.
The Mages Apprentice will be free to play, but will not have access to sub-classes or any of the new Mage or Seer spells. They will be adequate for free play and are still beneficial to their groups.
WH: Last issue, you mentioned that the knife combat rogue will replace the iconic knife combat juggler build. What's the goal with separating that build out from the class? What will the juggler's new third option be?
D: The days of the traditional Juggler as an "all in one" hero are drawing to an end. With clearly defined roles within a group for the classes, the Jugglers will remain a powerful group hero as far as buffing goes. They are not having "all" of their attack skills removed, but they are being led into a definite place within the group.
The rogue will hopefully be much more of a challenge to the old juggler players, but will not be geared towards direct group play, but a "greed" type of player. Do not misunderstand though, they are still beneficial to a group in terms of attacking powerful enemies with stealth. Just don't expect any supreme group buffs from them.
We will still be able to provide a valuable third sub-class for these heroes.
WH: Is the addition of a fourth non-premium class going to affect group balance? How will non-premium groups fare in dungeons in the new world?
D: The fourth non-premium class is long overdue. It is an acolyte class that is capable of feats such as "administer healing potion" and "administer mana potion" as well as an array of healing skills and techniques. Healing has been an issue for quite a long time with the non-premium groups. Generally, it has been accepted that if you are in a full group of non premiums, you were doomed to fail certain levels and would not have access to the same type of gameplay as the premium players.
While this is true in regards to the sub-classes (in the future), the introduction of a non-premium healing class should make a visible impact on the games appeal to non-premium groups.
WH: So, lots of awesome changes in the class area alone. When can we mark our calendars for the reset?
D: So far, we have all been a bit behind on the design team due to some real life issues and what we saw as a great opportunity to expand WoD in the new world. Trust us, though, it will be worth the wait, and the stuff that is done so far is probably the coolest you have seen yet in WoD.
RE-RUN: The Herald Wants YOU!
Got an interesting build you'd like to share? An idea you want to get out there? Too much bundled up creativity and no outlet? The Herald is looking for interviewees. To sign up, send a message to Jasvyr and shout your glorious information to the world (figuratively...there's no yelling allowed in journalism...)!!! Seriously, message me in game, I want to interview you (assuming you have something even REMOTELY interesting to say)!
Tuesday, November 29, 2011
Seventh Edition - November 2011
RE-RUN: WoD Herald - Who wants to participate?
If anyone is interested in writing an article for the Herald, message me with your topic, and if it sounds fun, I'll invite you to wow me with your compositional competence!
Simply message me, Jasvyr, in WoD on Caledonii or Aberon to give it a shot! (No guarantee an article will be run, of course...the big guys upstairs have to approve and all...)
As always, happy dungeoneering!
Ravenfort Fair in Full Swing!
Sign up for everything! As usual, this year for the Ravenfort Fair, we celebrate in numerous exciting ways!
You can sign up for the tournaments in the Arena.
Good luck, and have fun!
RE-RUN - Intra-Clan Leagues
What better way to show the close bond you've developed with your clan-mates than to brutally assault them on a semi-regular basis?
Sign up for a clan-league now with Hasta!
Caledonii League Run-Down - Groups - 2000
Believe it or not, The Heretics have done it again! With Ignis breaking 300 consistently on cross-position magic attacks, they just couldn't be stopped, even by the Lucky XIII! It seems no one can take the crown from this dominant group!
Rounding out the upper division, Lucky XIII and OOG's Revenge performed extremely well, beating out the rest of the competition.
Since The Twelve Warriors moved up into the top division, the top spot went back to Valor Friends, and The Body Snatchers maintained their second-place position yet again.
Congratulations to all our participants!
New World - WoD Revision
In a rare appearance to us little folk, the game administrator of the .net servers, Code_Red, (also known as Darkblade) has agreed to an interview regarding the up-and-coming changes we can expect in the next world in WoD!
Keep in mind, not all the changes are listed here, and anything that IS listed here may end up being revised, so nothing is totally set in stone just yet.
All the same, enjoy the interview, and hopefully you are all as excited about the potential the new world has as I am!
WH: So, a new world (or reset) is going to drop sooner or later. Which is it? Sooner or later? What kind of general time frame can we expect on seeing the new digs?
DB: I would love to say sooner, but we all remember what happened with the Caledonii launch, and I would like to avoid having that happen again if at all humanly possible. I want to personally make sure that this next world is solid and everything is in place and working before the players flood in.
WH: This world is going to be rife with overdue changes, balancing, and some major overhauls. What are the biggest changes?
DB: Where to begin... Overdue changes? I think that the fame titles and medal updates are significant. When you gain fame titles, you will be able to choose between the standard medals that we have all seen over the years, but now there will be racial and class based medals as well. These will push some of the crucial skills or abilities that pertain directly to your hero. This should give people a reason to actually want to gain fame. Recruiting, voting, etc for extra fame will finally have a good incentive bonus to it for the player, aside from the player base growth.
We will also see the addition of some new classes and races, and a change to how these are played in general. Also finally making its way into the game will be backpacks. The standard backpacks will directly influence how many pocket slots a player has. These standard backpacks are indestructable. Other unique packs will allow players to use the pack itself as a limited usage item for their trade skills. These packs will not be exempt from damage. Discovering just what is out there should really heat up the markets and trade forums or the "offers" area of the market.
WH: So, class changes, huh? What's the goal here, and what will these changes look like? Will the builds we know and love disappear?
Some races and classes will be changed. There will now be 4 "free" classes, and 2 new premium races, as well as quite a few newer premium classes. Some builds, even those I myself am known for, will be replaced by new ones. The knife combat Juggler for example will fade into legend, and be replaced by the knife combat Rogue.
WH: Can you break down one of the larger changes in more detail? For example, what can we expect the mage class to look like now?
DB: There will be a few different types of mages now in fact. The free to play mage class will now be the Mages Apprentice class. These will have most of the features that the mage class has been known for in the past. Then there are 2 different premium mage classes. The mage, and the seer. Each of these is unique in its own way. For example the mage will focus on fire, ice and energy based attacks, but will also have some new options for spellcasting from scrolls. The seer will be somewhat similar, but will have a bit more power in elemental based magery.
WH: What about races? Who's changing, why, and how?
DB: The races themselves will not change too much, they will be joined by the new Sha-Jin and Half-Orc races.
WH: Anything completely new?
DB: Aside from the backpacks, there will be some restrictions on which classes can use certain types of weaponry or armor.
WH: Just to put all this stuff into perspective for our readers, how much time and effort went into all these changes? Do the designers get a decent paycheck at the end of all this?
DB: Tell me more of this.. "pay" of which thou speaketh... Seriously though, this has all been work done freely by designers on their own free time. The only thing we can do to say thank you is reward them with free premium time, or a monthly sapphire bonus. This sapphire bonus is not limited to designers though. As most players know, Textmasters, Greasemonkey Coders and other players who help the community in general also receive decent sapphire rewards for their time and efforts.
WH: Any closing comments, anything else you'd like to mention about the changes that I've missed?
DB: I would love to discuss the changes in length, but I think with the new information made available, there will be a lot of new questions to answer soon. I would like the new players as well as the old players to have a new sense of discovery with the new systems and changes being put into place.
The Herald Wants YOU!
Got an interesting build you'd like to share? An idea you want to get out there? Too much bundled up creativity and no outlet? The Herald is looking for interviewees. To sign up, send a message to Jasvyr and shout your glorious information to the world (figuratively...there's no yelling allowed in journalism...)!!! Seriously, message me in game, I want to interview you (assuming you have something even REMOTELY interesting to say)!
If anyone is interested in writing an article for the Herald, message me with your topic, and if it sounds fun, I'll invite you to wow me with your compositional competence!
Simply message me, Jasvyr, in WoD on Caledonii or Aberon to give it a shot! (No guarantee an article will be run, of course...the big guys upstairs have to approve and all...)
As always, happy dungeoneering!
Ravenfort Fair in Full Swing!
Sign up for everything! As usual, this year for the Ravenfort Fair, we celebrate in numerous exciting ways!
- Balloon Popping! Throw, shoot, or blast those balloons to win your prize!
- Fortune Telling! Pick a number, any number! Madame Uniana can tell your future with her magic tarot cards, and the ebst part is, you get to keep one (or two)!
- Golem Bouts! Buff your rock-monster and watch him pound another rock monster into the ground! Winner-take-all!
- Good-Old-Fashioned Fighting! What better way to celebrate than to beat each other into unrecognizable pulps? Sign up for the tournaments!
You can sign up for the tournaments in the Arena.
Good luck, and have fun!
RE-RUN - Intra-Clan Leagues
What better way to show the close bond you've developed with your clan-mates than to brutally assault them on a semi-regular basis?
Sign up for a clan-league now with Hasta!
Caledonii League Run-Down - Groups - 2000
Believe it or not, The Heretics have done it again! With Ignis breaking 300 consistently on cross-position magic attacks, they just couldn't be stopped, even by the Lucky XIII! It seems no one can take the crown from this dominant group!
Rounding out the upper division, Lucky XIII and OOG's Revenge performed extremely well, beating out the rest of the competition.
Since The Twelve Warriors moved up into the top division, the top spot went back to Valor Friends, and The Body Snatchers maintained their second-place position yet again.
Congratulations to all our participants!
New World - WoD Revision
In a rare appearance to us little folk, the game administrator of the .net servers, Code_Red, (also known as Darkblade) has agreed to an interview regarding the up-and-coming changes we can expect in the next world in WoD!
Keep in mind, not all the changes are listed here, and anything that IS listed here may end up being revised, so nothing is totally set in stone just yet.
All the same, enjoy the interview, and hopefully you are all as excited about the potential the new world has as I am!
WH: So, a new world (or reset) is going to drop sooner or later. Which is it? Sooner or later? What kind of general time frame can we expect on seeing the new digs?
DB: I would love to say sooner, but we all remember what happened with the Caledonii launch, and I would like to avoid having that happen again if at all humanly possible. I want to personally make sure that this next world is solid and everything is in place and working before the players flood in.
WH: This world is going to be rife with overdue changes, balancing, and some major overhauls. What are the biggest changes?
DB: Where to begin... Overdue changes? I think that the fame titles and medal updates are significant. When you gain fame titles, you will be able to choose between the standard medals that we have all seen over the years, but now there will be racial and class based medals as well. These will push some of the crucial skills or abilities that pertain directly to your hero. This should give people a reason to actually want to gain fame. Recruiting, voting, etc for extra fame will finally have a good incentive bonus to it for the player, aside from the player base growth.
We will also see the addition of some new classes and races, and a change to how these are played in general. Also finally making its way into the game will be backpacks. The standard backpacks will directly influence how many pocket slots a player has. These standard backpacks are indestructable. Other unique packs will allow players to use the pack itself as a limited usage item for their trade skills. These packs will not be exempt from damage. Discovering just what is out there should really heat up the markets and trade forums or the "offers" area of the market.
WH: So, class changes, huh? What's the goal here, and what will these changes look like? Will the builds we know and love disappear?
Some races and classes will be changed. There will now be 4 "free" classes, and 2 new premium races, as well as quite a few newer premium classes. Some builds, even those I myself am known for, will be replaced by new ones. The knife combat Juggler for example will fade into legend, and be replaced by the knife combat Rogue.
WH: Can you break down one of the larger changes in more detail? For example, what can we expect the mage class to look like now?
DB: There will be a few different types of mages now in fact. The free to play mage class will now be the Mages Apprentice class. These will have most of the features that the mage class has been known for in the past. Then there are 2 different premium mage classes. The mage, and the seer. Each of these is unique in its own way. For example the mage will focus on fire, ice and energy based attacks, but will also have some new options for spellcasting from scrolls. The seer will be somewhat similar, but will have a bit more power in elemental based magery.
WH: What about races? Who's changing, why, and how?
DB: The races themselves will not change too much, they will be joined by the new Sha-Jin and Half-Orc races.
WH: Anything completely new?
DB: Aside from the backpacks, there will be some restrictions on which classes can use certain types of weaponry or armor.
WH: Just to put all this stuff into perspective for our readers, how much time and effort went into all these changes? Do the designers get a decent paycheck at the end of all this?
DB: Tell me more of this.. "pay" of which thou speaketh... Seriously though, this has all been work done freely by designers on their own free time. The only thing we can do to say thank you is reward them with free premium time, or a monthly sapphire bonus. This sapphire bonus is not limited to designers though. As most players know, Textmasters, Greasemonkey Coders and other players who help the community in general also receive decent sapphire rewards for their time and efforts.
WH: Any closing comments, anything else you'd like to mention about the changes that I've missed?
DB: I would love to discuss the changes in length, but I think with the new information made available, there will be a lot of new questions to answer soon. I would like the new players as well as the old players to have a new sense of discovery with the new systems and changes being put into place.
The Herald Wants YOU!
Got an interesting build you'd like to share? An idea you want to get out there? Too much bundled up creativity and no outlet? The Herald is looking for interviewees. To sign up, send a message to Jasvyr and shout your glorious information to the world (figuratively...there's no yelling allowed in journalism...)!!! Seriously, message me in game, I want to interview you (assuming you have something even REMOTELY interesting to say)!
Thursday, November 3, 2011
Sixth Edition - October 2011
Herald's Sixth Run - Who wants to participate?
Well, sixth issue, pretty much business as usual now. It's been a half a year since I started running the Herald, and now it's time to expand! If anyone is interested in writing an article for the Herald, message me with your topic, and if it sounds fun, I'll invite you to wow me with your compositional competence!
Simply message me, Jasvyr, in WoD on Caledonii or Aberon to give it a shot! (No guarantee an article will be run, of course...the big guys upstairs have to approve and all...)
As always, happy dungeoneering!
Upcoming - Nemean Festival
Heroes, prepare yourselves! The Nemean Festival is up and coming! Expect it in the next month or so, with unique items and equipment, and potentially some awesome hero-on-hero competition, provided by your friendly local Colosseum Administrator!
Details are forthcoming!
RE-RUN - Intra-Clan Leagues
Do it. You know you want to! Who's the best one on one fighter in your clan? My clan knows. Does yours?
I promise, it's easy to run and worth the time.
Caledonii League Run-Down - Groups - 2000
It's official, The Heretics are at the top of the groups league! This time, though, the Warriors of Kesmet didn't participate in the league, so there's a certain air of conspiracy completely-made-up-by-the-author-of-this-article* amongst the groups.
Once again The Heretics dominated the top league, not even dropping a single match against the top groups in Caledonii! Yet again, quite the tour de force by the group, with strong performances by Ignis and Finmall
The second division of the groups league saw a small change-up of the leaderboard, with The Twelve Warriors taking the top spot from Valor Friends, and The Body Snatchers maintaining their second-place position.
Congratulations to all our participants!
*ADJECTIVES ADDED IN FOR ACCURACY BY WoD STAFF
Winning Every Duel Ever
Please enjoy this interview with Dwargon of The Heretics. While some newer players or lower level players may not know him, those of us who have been around since the start of the world know him as "that guy who always beats me at duels". Lots to learn from him here!
WH: First of all, what made you think of building your knight? Social attacks aren't always what people think of when talking about a knight.
D: It all started with my old rager barbarian and how helpless he was against debuffers, not to mention the item damage he received in dungeons. I wanted to make a unique, universal defensive build that could challenge anyone. I chose Order of Lion knight because he had everything i needed. Talent: Gallant helps against opponents with high social defense, but i don't have to use it very often. Talent: Steadfast is very important, majority of duelists are melee attackers and this is one of the best defensive skills against them. I used it in my first pre-round until just recently. Talent: Convincing Smile is my cherry on the top. A very strong debuff that i use as my first action. Another reason why I chose a knight is a good selection of items. Seal of the General of Nahkpur, brass brush and many others allow me to raise my social skills to high levels; he also has a good selection of armors for both defense and offense, but they aren't exactly suited for this build. I'm using several pieces with maluses to Dodge Blow and initiative. The last reason was that I like unique builds and I haven't seen many social knights around. In fact, I think that I'm still the only Order of Lion knight on Caledonii.
WH: Your knight is designed, more or less, to shut down the opponent entirely. Is that sort of build possible with other classes?
D: I think it's doable with many other classes, definitely with those that have Throw Net. There are also very strong items for skills like Amulet of Weakness or Ancient Wisdom (offensive) - amulet of agony/bone staff of the troll shaman being the best examples, but it's generally harder to make an effective build with focus on those skills. You need to be fast enough to debuff your opponent and strong enough to withstand or avoid a few hits. That's often the hardest part.
WH: How do you balance your emphasis on strong social attacks with being effective in a dungeon (for readers who might not be aware, many enemies in dungeons are immune to social attacks, limiting a social build's use to a group in dungeons)? What skills do you use that translate in both places?
D: Before i joined my group i told them what kind of knight i want to play. It's best to clear thing out at the beginning, it's not a good thing to pour hundreds of thousands of EP into social and defense skills when everyone expects you to raise leadership skills. It also helped that i played a second pure support hero in the group.
At the beginning i thought that there would be a few dungeons where I could be useful with my social attacks, but in reality, those skills were totally useless. At least that was the case with my build. I'm also a decent attacker, so with a poison coated Skalantie the dusk blade in my hands and a lecture from our scholar in my head, it's almost a sin not to attack. Dead monsters can't kill you, not to mention that debuffs must hit first and you need to be really fast which is not my case. Most common monsters aren't worth the trouble and when it counts, they are either immune or have such high social defense that even mockery bard would have a hard time. Of course I also have a few skills to help my group. Captain is always above master rank as i use it in duels against armored opponents and archers. It's my default pre-round skill in dungeons. I also raised Field Marshall and Vassals Loyalty when needed. With bonuses from items and other skills, they can be on a decent level without going past the master rank.
WH: I've started to see some people finally able to challenge you in duels recently; it seems your debuffs help, but don't COMPLETELY shut down opponents anymore. Do you see a natural fall-off for debuffs in the game currently, or did you just change your build around?
D: My opponents got better. While I have to spend my EP in many different areas, fast attack builds just have to concentrate on attack and initiative, plus some decent hp. It's only natural that they act first and often score a hit. My gear is heavily focused on melee defense, so it's not THAT uncommon that I dodge the first hit, but they have the upper hand there. If they can take me down with two hits, it's problematic for me and that's the case here. They have quite a high damage so they just need to get a lucky second shot - either by getting a very high attack roll or a very low defense roll on my side. The same can also happen with initiative. Mostly I get to act before their second action, but sometimes they get two actions before i can even debuff them and that's trouble. If I get to my second action, it's over. It's still probably possible to hit me, but I've never lost a duel versus a melee opponent when I got that far. The following debuffs and buffs on my side are just to make sure they don't have even the slightest chance to hit me. So the duel is usually decided after our second actions. I wondered why I constantly beat them before, even though their builds should have won at least some of the duels. That's what's happening now, the differences in our rolls got bigger and I'm starting to lose some of the duels, but that's how it should be. I think I still have the upper hand, not to mention they have problems against many builds that I can deal with. And then there are archers and ranged hunters. I have to knock them out before they defeat me and it isn't that easy, even with Alawins ring of agility. I also have to prepare for a duel against them so it's normal to lose some of these duels too every now and then.
WH: What other interesting, and potentially rare, builds are there out there? Any other ways players can take a fresh approach to an old class and try to make it new and exciting?
D: I think there are still many unique duel builds out there that can be deadly in the right hands. There are many new combinations thanks to the new grafting system and the reworked classes could also offer new options in the next world. You can make a similar debuffing build to mine with a brawling gladiator or a juggler. Especially juggler can be very versatile as he has access to many strong skills, items and debuffs. I've been thinking about one for the next world - dexterity based with focus on Use Throwing Weapons and nets. People usualy go for agility with this build so it could be interesting. Another build i've been thinking about is a Demosan priest. I did some math on his skills and he could be a real killing machine at higher levels, although you'll have to sacrifice defense, especially against ranged opponents, which also means nets. So he probably won't be as versatile as other builds and his damage won't be that great, which is also a problem against armored opponents. But, he could be very fast, maybe even the fastest, with a good amount of HP and actions. Then there's the drifter. Not many people play him, but he can be made into an excellent duelist. A duel bard is also a very unique and versatile class with good buffs, debuffs and healing. He can be fun to play in the right hands. When making these builds, it's important to know what you're doing. Plan your skills, find suitable items and make some basic calculations to see what you can expect at the end. It's not a good thing to blindly build your hero as you go, not knowing what skill or items you want to use only to find out that you're useless or that you can't raise even half the skills you wanted.
The Herald Wants YOU!
Got an interesting build you'd like to share? An idea you want to get out there? Too much bundled up creativity and no outlet? The Herald is looking for interviewees. To sign up, send a message to Jasvyr and shout your glorious information to the world (figuratively...there's no yelling allowed in journalism...)!!! Seriously, message me in game, I want to interview you (assuming you have something even REMOTELY interesting to say)!
Well, sixth issue, pretty much business as usual now. It's been a half a year since I started running the Herald, and now it's time to expand! If anyone is interested in writing an article for the Herald, message me with your topic, and if it sounds fun, I'll invite you to wow me with your compositional competence!
Simply message me, Jasvyr, in WoD on Caledonii or Aberon to give it a shot! (No guarantee an article will be run, of course...the big guys upstairs have to approve and all...)
As always, happy dungeoneering!
Upcoming - Nemean Festival
Heroes, prepare yourselves! The Nemean Festival is up and coming! Expect it in the next month or so, with unique items and equipment, and potentially some awesome hero-on-hero competition, provided by your friendly local Colosseum Administrator!
Details are forthcoming!
RE-RUN - Intra-Clan Leagues
Do it. You know you want to! Who's the best one on one fighter in your clan? My clan knows. Does yours?
I promise, it's easy to run and worth the time.
Caledonii League Run-Down - Groups - 2000
It's official, The Heretics are at the top of the groups league! This time, though, the Warriors of Kesmet didn't participate in the league, so there's a certain air of conspiracy completely-made-up-by-the-author-of-this-article* amongst the groups.
Once again The Heretics dominated the top league, not even dropping a single match against the top groups in Caledonii! Yet again, quite the tour de force by the group, with strong performances by Ignis and Finmall
The second division of the groups league saw a small change-up of the leaderboard, with The Twelve Warriors taking the top spot from Valor Friends, and The Body Snatchers maintaining their second-place position.
Congratulations to all our participants!
*ADJECTIVES ADDED IN FOR ACCURACY BY WoD STAFF
Winning Every Duel Ever
Please enjoy this interview with Dwargon of The Heretics. While some newer players or lower level players may not know him, those of us who have been around since the start of the world know him as "that guy who always beats me at duels". Lots to learn from him here!
WH: First of all, what made you think of building your knight? Social attacks aren't always what people think of when talking about a knight.
D: It all started with my old rager barbarian and how helpless he was against debuffers, not to mention the item damage he received in dungeons. I wanted to make a unique, universal defensive build that could challenge anyone. I chose Order of Lion knight because he had everything i needed. Talent: Gallant helps against opponents with high social defense, but i don't have to use it very often. Talent: Steadfast is very important, majority of duelists are melee attackers and this is one of the best defensive skills against them. I used it in my first pre-round until just recently. Talent: Convincing Smile is my cherry on the top. A very strong debuff that i use as my first action. Another reason why I chose a knight is a good selection of items. Seal of the General of Nahkpur, brass brush and many others allow me to raise my social skills to high levels; he also has a good selection of armors for both defense and offense, but they aren't exactly suited for this build. I'm using several pieces with maluses to Dodge Blow and initiative. The last reason was that I like unique builds and I haven't seen many social knights around. In fact, I think that I'm still the only Order of Lion knight on Caledonii.
WH: Your knight is designed, more or less, to shut down the opponent entirely. Is that sort of build possible with other classes?
D: I think it's doable with many other classes, definitely with those that have Throw Net. There are also very strong items for skills like Amulet of Weakness or Ancient Wisdom (offensive) - amulet of agony/bone staff of the troll shaman being the best examples, but it's generally harder to make an effective build with focus on those skills. You need to be fast enough to debuff your opponent and strong enough to withstand or avoid a few hits. That's often the hardest part.
WH: How do you balance your emphasis on strong social attacks with being effective in a dungeon (for readers who might not be aware, many enemies in dungeons are immune to social attacks, limiting a social build's use to a group in dungeons)? What skills do you use that translate in both places?
D: Before i joined my group i told them what kind of knight i want to play. It's best to clear thing out at the beginning, it's not a good thing to pour hundreds of thousands of EP into social and defense skills when everyone expects you to raise leadership skills. It also helped that i played a second pure support hero in the group.
At the beginning i thought that there would be a few dungeons where I could be useful with my social attacks, but in reality, those skills were totally useless. At least that was the case with my build. I'm also a decent attacker, so with a poison coated Skalantie the dusk blade in my hands and a lecture from our scholar in my head, it's almost a sin not to attack. Dead monsters can't kill you, not to mention that debuffs must hit first and you need to be really fast which is not my case. Most common monsters aren't worth the trouble and when it counts, they are either immune or have such high social defense that even mockery bard would have a hard time. Of course I also have a few skills to help my group. Captain is always above master rank as i use it in duels against armored opponents and archers. It's my default pre-round skill in dungeons. I also raised Field Marshall and Vassals Loyalty when needed. With bonuses from items and other skills, they can be on a decent level without going past the master rank.
WH: I've started to see some people finally able to challenge you in duels recently; it seems your debuffs help, but don't COMPLETELY shut down opponents anymore. Do you see a natural fall-off for debuffs in the game currently, or did you just change your build around?
D: My opponents got better. While I have to spend my EP in many different areas, fast attack builds just have to concentrate on attack and initiative, plus some decent hp. It's only natural that they act first and often score a hit. My gear is heavily focused on melee defense, so it's not THAT uncommon that I dodge the first hit, but they have the upper hand there. If they can take me down with two hits, it's problematic for me and that's the case here. They have quite a high damage so they just need to get a lucky second shot - either by getting a very high attack roll or a very low defense roll on my side. The same can also happen with initiative. Mostly I get to act before their second action, but sometimes they get two actions before i can even debuff them and that's trouble. If I get to my second action, it's over. It's still probably possible to hit me, but I've never lost a duel versus a melee opponent when I got that far. The following debuffs and buffs on my side are just to make sure they don't have even the slightest chance to hit me. So the duel is usually decided after our second actions. I wondered why I constantly beat them before, even though their builds should have won at least some of the duels. That's what's happening now, the differences in our rolls got bigger and I'm starting to lose some of the duels, but that's how it should be. I think I still have the upper hand, not to mention they have problems against many builds that I can deal with. And then there are archers and ranged hunters. I have to knock them out before they defeat me and it isn't that easy, even with Alawins ring of agility. I also have to prepare for a duel against them so it's normal to lose some of these duels too every now and then.
WH: What other interesting, and potentially rare, builds are there out there? Any other ways players can take a fresh approach to an old class and try to make it new and exciting?
D: I think there are still many unique duel builds out there that can be deadly in the right hands. There are many new combinations thanks to the new grafting system and the reworked classes could also offer new options in the next world. You can make a similar debuffing build to mine with a brawling gladiator or a juggler. Especially juggler can be very versatile as he has access to many strong skills, items and debuffs. I've been thinking about one for the next world - dexterity based with focus on Use Throwing Weapons and nets. People usualy go for agility with this build so it could be interesting. Another build i've been thinking about is a Demosan priest. I did some math on his skills and he could be a real killing machine at higher levels, although you'll have to sacrifice defense, especially against ranged opponents, which also means nets. So he probably won't be as versatile as other builds and his damage won't be that great, which is also a problem against armored opponents. But, he could be very fast, maybe even the fastest, with a good amount of HP and actions. Then there's the drifter. Not many people play him, but he can be made into an excellent duelist. A duel bard is also a very unique and versatile class with good buffs, debuffs and healing. He can be fun to play in the right hands. When making these builds, it's important to know what you're doing. Plan your skills, find suitable items and make some basic calculations to see what you can expect at the end. It's not a good thing to blindly build your hero as you go, not knowing what skill or items you want to use only to find out that you're useless or that you can't raise even half the skills you wanted.
The Herald Wants YOU!
Got an interesting build you'd like to share? An idea you want to get out there? Too much bundled up creativity and no outlet? The Herald is looking for interviewees. To sign up, send a message to Jasvyr and shout your glorious information to the world (figuratively...there's no yelling allowed in journalism...)!!! Seriously, message me in game, I want to interview you (assuming you have something even REMOTELY interesting to say)!
Wednesday, October 5, 2011
Fifth Edition - September 2011
Herald's Fifth Run - Home Stretch on Caledonii
So, here we are, in the fifth edition of the Herald. Seems like less than a year ago I started this fledgling enterprise with nothing but the pen in my hand and the glimmer in my eye.
And now for a non sequitur. Caledonii has been an interesting world from the start, and many of the high level groups are approaching end-of-game status in level and gear, including dungeon completion. Keep in mind, there will be a new world (or world reset) sooner or later, but it is a little ways off, so keep on enjoying Caledonii for a bit longer. A little patience goes a long way, and it will essentially be a time to try new and exciting builds (to you) with new and exciting classes (to you) after you hit the cap and feel there's nothing going on.
Happy dungeoneering!
RE-RUN - Intra-Clan Leagues
These leagues are still available for all clans that may want one. Duel each other internally, and determine who the best clan duelist is! Keep the clan together by keeping it all in the clan. Beat up on those you hold most dear, and let them beat up on you in return!
Speaking from personal experience, these are good fun, easy to run, and a great way to keep your clan involved and active internally.
Tournament of Barbroxu Comes to an End!
Congratulations to all who participated, and be sure to make good use of the consumables given to all as a participation prize!
The overall winner of the tournament (featuring only barbarians...class-ist...) was Radialis, with xGlider as our runner-up.
The winners of "Running with the Herd" were xGlider and Mysteria@Aberon on Caledonii and Aberon, respectively. Their slightly smashed losing counter-parts were Ragnor and Sophia@Aberon, again Caledonii and Aberon respectively.
The exalted Champion of Barbroxu is gifted the stunning battle axe with the blessing of Barbroxu as a reward.
Winners of "Running with the Herd" each got an exquisite horned helmet with caribou antlers, while the first to fall each got the amazing honor of being flat as a pancake.
Story Telling, Not Just for Woodlanders Anymore!
Entrants into the "Running with the Herd" competition can write up a story of the events as they unfolded for a guarantee of some sapphires, with a chance to win more!
Simply send your SERIOUS attempt at telling the events of the competition (specifying which run you are commentating on as there were a couple) and send it to Akako Chung.
Caledonii League Run-Down - Groups - 2000
Call me crazy, but I think The Heretics are now the team to beat! To be fair, many of the Warriors of Kesmet are busy doing crazy things like running the game, and the same can be said for some members of other groups, but this has gotten to be a norm almost over night (or over the last three months, whichever you prefer, loyal readers).
This month, we saw absolute domination by The Heretics, as they lost ZERO matches. Those of you with other gaming experience will know, we call that an "ACE!" Well played. As we've come to expect, they dropped the hammer on Warriors of Kesmet with a phial of high quality magical potion, another strong performance by Ignis, and some clean-up by Dwargon, Vizzini and Salad Fingers.
The second division of the groups league was lead by Valor Friends, The Body Snatchers second, and The Twelve Warriors third.
Congratulations to all our participants!
WoD: New to Me
Please enjoy this interview with Diablo1985 of Ice Cold and Sweet. He's a new player to WoD as of the Caledonii start, and can share some thoughts about his early experience so far.
WH: So, you're new to WoD this world, right? How did you hear about WoD?
D: I found WoD in January this year by "googling". I've played some online games before and I wanted something new.
WH: How has your experience been so far?
D: Most of the online games are based on strategy or RPG (build a character). At a first look, I put WoD in the 2nd category. Everything changed when I was acquainted by Quillmonkey to join Ice Cold and Sweet. I thought it was all for fame to be a member of a group, but I realized is the essence of WoD. I'm looking at my minis now and they cant overpass dungeons suggested for half their level. No matter how good you are, the resources to develop your character could only come from a group.
WH: I see Blackruby and Tacheron are both in your group. How instrumental in your group's success have they been, being very experienced players? Do you think your group would have made it if it was made up of all new players?
D: My biggest luck was to join Ice Cold and Sweet. Alongside Blackruby and Tacheron we have Quillmonkey - the founder, the brother and one friend of Tacheron and Peak who played a lot on french server. We're pretty much like the musketeers - one for all and all for one. The forum is a very useful tool; there we can discuss pretty much all: merchandising, schedulers, wish lists, strategies....u name it. Alongside the relationships in the group that makes it very solid we have the Written Constitution of Ice Cold and Sweet, another major piece of the group's backbone. Tacheron is the merchant and also you can say is the account since he pays us a salary at each level because all the drops goes to TV or GS. I made mistakes, bending the rules....because I like empirical methods, by practice, and sometimes I wanted more coins for example. Although I'm 26 years old I felt like the teenager that needs to steal the car late at night and meet his girlfriend; translated in WoD, selling my stuff for some coins to develop a skill I thought I need it. But Tacheron and Quillmonkey were like my parents blaming (criticizing) for my actions, but after all they supported me with advices and always found a way to cool things down. I think that's our group strong point because we can understand each other and guide ourselves on a good path avoiding the dark side of human nature (the ones with power and knowledge tend to mock the others). Could we have made it with new players ? I say maybe, the only difference is the time to get used to, or as Quill (Quillmonkey) said: "WoD has quite a steep learning curve and it is difficult to get your head round some things".
WH: What things would have improved your early experience with WoD? In your experience, what things can players do to make the environment more welcoming for new players?
D: I always wanted to become better. I'm a Virgo after all and I like to help the ones I trust or care . Someone said: "Learn, learn and learn". I say :"Read, read and read'. Ain't that hard. The reports contains a lot of information about what could you improve on your character. Reading the items descriptions helps you choose one more adequate and reading the skills list helps you building your hero as you wish. I thought a rage roundhouser cant survive, but that's what I am and I'm satisfied with my achievements both in dungeons and in the Arena. And don't forget to analyze your group and see how much they can support your actions. What would've helped me in the beginning ? More coins and/or the items I wanted; I was changing my wishlist at least weakly annoying Tacheron. First you see a blue candy: wooow..., then a red one with stars : wwwooooowww.......something like that, we all have a child inside. Anyway, the thing I suggest for any group / clan is to have a smooth and running Forum and to share the information, after all is the Age of Information .
WH: Are you going to keep playing in the next world? If so, what has you hooked? Going to get a premium account, or stay free-to-play?
D: I really want a premium account, maybe in the next world. What get me hooked ? Don't know, maybe the fact we all need to work together for achievements. To really think as a part of a group is different and if you don't, don't expect much from this game. An example to clarify: if my primary goal is to be the main attacker that means I wont be running after defense items, leaving them for the tank; the idea is to know how to make, lets say sacrifices.
The Herald Wants YOU!
Got an interesting build you'd like to share? An idea you want to get out there? Too much bundled up creativity and no outlet? The Herald is looking for interviewees. To sign up, send a message to Jasvyr and shout your glorious information to the world (figuratively...there's no yelling allowed in journalism...)!!!
So, here we are, in the fifth edition of the Herald. Seems like less than a year ago I started this fledgling enterprise with nothing but the pen in my hand and the glimmer in my eye.
And now for a non sequitur. Caledonii has been an interesting world from the start, and many of the high level groups are approaching end-of-game status in level and gear, including dungeon completion. Keep in mind, there will be a new world (or world reset) sooner or later, but it is a little ways off, so keep on enjoying Caledonii for a bit longer. A little patience goes a long way, and it will essentially be a time to try new and exciting builds (to you) with new and exciting classes (to you) after you hit the cap and feel there's nothing going on.
Happy dungeoneering!
RE-RUN - Intra-Clan Leagues
These leagues are still available for all clans that may want one. Duel each other internally, and determine who the best clan duelist is! Keep the clan together by keeping it all in the clan. Beat up on those you hold most dear, and let them beat up on you in return!
Speaking from personal experience, these are good fun, easy to run, and a great way to keep your clan involved and active internally.
Tournament of Barbroxu Comes to an End!
Congratulations to all who participated, and be sure to make good use of the consumables given to all as a participation prize!
The overall winner of the tournament (featuring only barbarians...class-ist...) was Radialis, with xGlider as our runner-up.
The winners of "Running with the Herd" were xGlider and Mysteria@Aberon on Caledonii and Aberon, respectively. Their slightly smashed losing counter-parts were Ragnor and Sophia@Aberon, again Caledonii and Aberon respectively.
The exalted Champion of Barbroxu is gifted the stunning battle axe with the blessing of Barbroxu as a reward.
Winners of "Running with the Herd" each got an exquisite horned helmet with caribou antlers, while the first to fall each got the amazing honor of being flat as a pancake.
Story Telling, Not Just for Woodlanders Anymore!
Entrants into the "Running with the Herd" competition can write up a story of the events as they unfolded for a guarantee of some sapphires, with a chance to win more!
Simply send your SERIOUS attempt at telling the events of the competition (specifying which run you are commentating on as there were a couple) and send it to Akako Chung.
Caledonii League Run-Down - Groups - 2000
Call me crazy, but I think The Heretics are now the team to beat! To be fair, many of the Warriors of Kesmet are busy doing crazy things like running the game, and the same can be said for some members of other groups, but this has gotten to be a norm almost over night (or over the last three months, whichever you prefer, loyal readers).
This month, we saw absolute domination by The Heretics, as they lost ZERO matches. Those of you with other gaming experience will know, we call that an "ACE!" Well played. As we've come to expect, they dropped the hammer on Warriors of Kesmet with a phial of high quality magical potion, another strong performance by Ignis, and some clean-up by Dwargon, Vizzini and Salad Fingers.
The second division of the groups league was lead by Valor Friends, The Body Snatchers second, and The Twelve Warriors third.
Congratulations to all our participants!
WoD: New to Me
Please enjoy this interview with Diablo1985 of Ice Cold and Sweet. He's a new player to WoD as of the Caledonii start, and can share some thoughts about his early experience so far.
WH: So, you're new to WoD this world, right? How did you hear about WoD?
D: I found WoD in January this year by "googling". I've played some online games before and I wanted something new.
WH: How has your experience been so far?
D: Most of the online games are based on strategy or RPG (build a character). At a first look, I put WoD in the 2nd category. Everything changed when I was acquainted by Quillmonkey to join Ice Cold and Sweet. I thought it was all for fame to be a member of a group, but I realized is the essence of WoD. I'm looking at my minis now and they cant overpass dungeons suggested for half their level. No matter how good you are, the resources to develop your character could only come from a group.
WH: I see Blackruby and Tacheron are both in your group. How instrumental in your group's success have they been, being very experienced players? Do you think your group would have made it if it was made up of all new players?
D: My biggest luck was to join Ice Cold and Sweet. Alongside Blackruby and Tacheron we have Quillmonkey - the founder, the brother and one friend of Tacheron and Peak who played a lot on french server. We're pretty much like the musketeers - one for all and all for one. The forum is a very useful tool; there we can discuss pretty much all: merchandising, schedulers, wish lists, strategies....u name it. Alongside the relationships in the group that makes it very solid we have the Written Constitution of Ice Cold and Sweet, another major piece of the group's backbone. Tacheron is the merchant and also you can say is the account since he pays us a salary at each level because all the drops goes to TV or GS. I made mistakes, bending the rules....because I like empirical methods, by practice, and sometimes I wanted more coins for example. Although I'm 26 years old I felt like the teenager that needs to steal the car late at night and meet his girlfriend; translated in WoD, selling my stuff for some coins to develop a skill I thought I need it. But Tacheron and Quillmonkey were like my parents blaming (criticizing) for my actions, but after all they supported me with advices and always found a way to cool things down. I think that's our group strong point because we can understand each other and guide ourselves on a good path avoiding the dark side of human nature (the ones with power and knowledge tend to mock the others). Could we have made it with new players ? I say maybe, the only difference is the time to get used to, or as Quill (Quillmonkey) said: "WoD has quite a steep learning curve and it is difficult to get your head round some things".
WH: What things would have improved your early experience with WoD? In your experience, what things can players do to make the environment more welcoming for new players?
D: I always wanted to become better. I'm a Virgo after all and I like to help the ones I trust or care . Someone said: "Learn, learn and learn". I say :"Read, read and read'. Ain't that hard. The reports contains a lot of information about what could you improve on your character. Reading the items descriptions helps you choose one more adequate and reading the skills list helps you building your hero as you wish. I thought a rage roundhouser cant survive, but that's what I am and I'm satisfied with my achievements both in dungeons and in the Arena. And don't forget to analyze your group and see how much they can support your actions. What would've helped me in the beginning ? More coins and/or the items I wanted; I was changing my wishlist at least weakly annoying Tacheron. First you see a blue candy: wooow..., then a red one with stars : wwwooooowww.......something like that, we all have a child inside. Anyway, the thing I suggest for any group / clan is to have a smooth and running Forum and to share the information, after all is the Age of Information .
WH: Are you going to keep playing in the next world? If so, what has you hooked? Going to get a premium account, or stay free-to-play?
D: I really want a premium account, maybe in the next world. What get me hooked ? Don't know, maybe the fact we all need to work together for achievements. To really think as a part of a group is different and if you don't, don't expect much from this game. An example to clarify: if my primary goal is to be the main attacker that means I wont be running after defense items, leaving them for the tank; the idea is to know how to make, lets say sacrifices.
The Herald Wants YOU!
Got an interesting build you'd like to share? An idea you want to get out there? Too much bundled up creativity and no outlet? The Herald is looking for interviewees. To sign up, send a message to Jasvyr and shout your glorious information to the world (figuratively...there's no yelling allowed in journalism...)!!!
Thursday, August 18, 2011
Fourth Edition - August 2011
RE-RUN - Intra-Clan Leagues
These leagues are still available for all clans that may want one. Duel each other internally, and determine who the best clan duelist is! Keep the clan together by keeping it all in the clan. Beat up on those you hold most dear, and let them beat up on you in return!
RE-RUN - Tell a Tale over Tea
FREE SAPPHIRES!!! Do I really need to say more?! Join the Tea Party every Sunday by registering here, and then write up a short story depicting the battle! See winners' entries from the last round by going here, hopefully that will jog your creative memory!
ALL WHO ENTER SERIOUS ENTRIES GET SAPPPHIRES! WIN THE CONTEST AND GET BONUS SAPPHIRES!
(while this is a great opportunity for free sapphires, the stories have to actually be serious and have some effort put in, not just throwing something together just to get the sapphires, we want your creativity!)
Tell a Tale over Tea's First Winner Announced
In other news, congratulations to last Tea Party's winner: Yours Truly! It seems the pen is mightier than the sword (or axe, or magic, or blunderbuss...you get the idea) after all! Excellent entries from Shadowice and DarkRuan also won 10 sapphires each.
Come now, none of you stalwart adventurers wants a shot at the bonus sapphires for taking my literary crown? Bring your best maneuvers to the fight, and your best pens to the after party! Win Sapphires!
Caledonii League Run-Down - Groups - 2000
Well, loyal readers, it has happened again. The Heretics have once again taken the top group sub-league by storm, this time beating out Lucky XIII by the margin of one half of a win. In the deciding match, our champions used surprise maneuver of stacking the right side, keeping their secret weapon, Ignis alive in order to blast the opponents, dealing nearly double the next most damaging attacker yet again.
The real shocker (pardon the pun) came in the duel between the runners up (Lucky XIII) actually ended their match with OOG's Revenge in a DRAW! That's right folks, legendary tank Suzie actually managed to successfully defend against FOUR of the of the second place group's heroes, striking down one, nearly bringing down a second, and I believe, given enough time, potentially winning!
Torrential Reigns rounded out the top three in the top sub-league. The Twelve Warrios, Senatus Redux, and The Body Snatchers took the top three spots in the second sub-league.
Designs on Design, Round Two
Great news, heroes! The next and final part of the epic Kargash Peak quest is being released a week from today! This new and exciting re-visitation of the beloved quest line will finally wrap up all the hard questing heroes in Caledonii have been doing since the world opened.
Along with the release of the final part of the quest, the old "boss items" have been updated for Caledonii.
These exciting new battles are designed for level 30+ groups.
Happy questing!
Shock and Awe, with Ignis
Please enjoy this brief interview with Ignis of The Heretics, potentially the single most devastating group and clan duelist Caledonii will ever have!
WoD Herald: Wow. You rock in group and clan duels. What's the secret?
Ignis: It is hard to say. My build is focused on initiative,which is good for duels. I am the only mage of my group, so I can get most mage's unique items, and my group and clan both have some great strategists for duels.
WH: Most of the high damage mages go fire. Why are you using electrical storm instead?
I: Actually I have played all kinds of mages and realized that energy is really better than fire. The main reason is Talent: Art of Offensive Magery. It gives quite a large bonus to both attack and damage roll, and secondly, the damage attribute is str, so its damage can be push by Experimental Strength. Besides Electrical Storm hits two more targets than fire rain, which is also importmant in group/clan duel. So,Electrical Storm hits more has more attack roll and does more damage.
The advange of fire is that you can use something like The fire amulet of Haron the Dark to do more damage,but those item have limited use and most effective when cri hit.
WH: Obviously, you have lots of pretty sweet items, and all the best enchanting a hero could ask for. Were you successful in duels before you got to that point, or was there sort of a "breaking point" for the power of your build?
I: I can't say it for sure. It is true some pieces of equipment (like cloak of eternal darkness,Gulgoltogh's girdle of penance and Golden Ring with a Black Diamond) are very powerful and will make a big difference in both duel and dungeon. The enchanting gives me more initiative and a higher attack roll. Those are important, but I am also very confident in my build =D.
WH: You don't use a premium account, and therefore no premium classes. How much does this affect your game play? Are you better at mages, for example, because that's all you play?
I: Oh, I have played wod for years (most in .org though), and have played almost all classes, but true, mage is always my favorite. I am also considering playing a Gladiator and an ice mage in next world :).
WH: I noticed in duel reports that your group doesn't really even buff you that much. Aside of the initiative buff from Captain and the aswadi drum, the only non-defensive buff on you was from use device (self). Just how powerful is that skill?
It is VERY powerful. With Gnomish talisman of energy you can get a rare initiative bonus and even an extra action. As a mage, you can't expect more from a pre-round skill, especially since AoP is no longer in this world. There are also some good devices like Use Device (Group), Schepwinkle's glowing ball, sulfur press. The other racial skill Deploy Traps is also very powerful in duels.
Actually I think that gnomes of this world are a little too powerful, at least for caster classes. The racial attack and defence bonus is good, the racial skill is very powerful (especially compared to other races), even the pocket enlarger item tool box is also great (it only require equip one device item and +3 extra pocket space, which means you can wear one powerful device and two other good pocket items, while elves have to wear 3 weak glyphs). I was a Tiram-Ag Elf mage before, but after I analyzed all races carefully, I converted to gnome immediately.
WH: Any other comments on your build, and how others can duplicate your success?
I: The key skill of my build is Talent: Art of Offensive Magery. I do think it is the best talent: attack roll, skill level damage, you've got all you want. I'd strongly suggest all mages (including fire and ice) choose the Sorcerer Warlock/Sorceress Witch subclass, even the attack bonus alone is good enough, and the other two talent skills are also not bad. On the other hand, energy is only powerful enough with Talent: Art of Offensive Magery. So,I suggest all mages who want to be enegrymage use fire before lvl 29, then use 2-3 reset points to convert to energy when you get Talent: Art of Offensive Magery and ring of liquid copper.
The Herald Wants YOU!
Got an interesting build you'd like to share? An idea you want to get out there? Too much bundled up creativity and no outlet? The Herald is looking for interviewees. To sign up, send a message to Jasvyr and shout your glorious information to the world (figuratively...there's no yelling allowed in journalism...)!!!
These leagues are still available for all clans that may want one. Duel each other internally, and determine who the best clan duelist is! Keep the clan together by keeping it all in the clan. Beat up on those you hold most dear, and let them beat up on you in return!
RE-RUN - Tell a Tale over Tea
FREE SAPPHIRES!!! Do I really need to say more?! Join the Tea Party every Sunday by registering here, and then write up a short story depicting the battle! See winners' entries from the last round by going here, hopefully that will jog your creative memory!
ALL WHO ENTER SERIOUS ENTRIES GET SAPPPHIRES! WIN THE CONTEST AND GET BONUS SAPPHIRES!
(while this is a great opportunity for free sapphires, the stories have to actually be serious and have some effort put in, not just throwing something together just to get the sapphires, we want your creativity!)
Tell a Tale over Tea's First Winner Announced
In other news, congratulations to last Tea Party's winner: Yours Truly! It seems the pen is mightier than the sword (or axe, or magic, or blunderbuss...you get the idea) after all! Excellent entries from Shadowice and DarkRuan also won 10 sapphires each.
Come now, none of you stalwart adventurers wants a shot at the bonus sapphires for taking my literary crown? Bring your best maneuvers to the fight, and your best pens to the after party! Win Sapphires!
Caledonii League Run-Down - Groups - 2000
Well, loyal readers, it has happened again. The Heretics have once again taken the top group sub-league by storm, this time beating out Lucky XIII by the margin of one half of a win. In the deciding match, our champions used surprise maneuver of stacking the right side, keeping their secret weapon, Ignis alive in order to blast the opponents, dealing nearly double the next most damaging attacker yet again.
The real shocker (pardon the pun) came in the duel between the runners up (Lucky XIII) actually ended their match with OOG's Revenge in a DRAW! That's right folks, legendary tank Suzie actually managed to successfully defend against FOUR of the of the second place group's heroes, striking down one, nearly bringing down a second, and I believe, given enough time, potentially winning!
Torrential Reigns rounded out the top three in the top sub-league. The Twelve Warrios, Senatus Redux, and The Body Snatchers took the top three spots in the second sub-league.
Designs on Design, Round Two
Great news, heroes! The next and final part of the epic Kargash Peak quest is being released a week from today! This new and exciting re-visitation of the beloved quest line will finally wrap up all the hard questing heroes in Caledonii have been doing since the world opened.
Along with the release of the final part of the quest, the old "boss items" have been updated for Caledonii.
These exciting new battles are designed for level 30+ groups.
Happy questing!
Shock and Awe, with Ignis
Please enjoy this brief interview with Ignis of The Heretics, potentially the single most devastating group and clan duelist Caledonii will ever have!
WoD Herald: Wow. You rock in group and clan duels. What's the secret?
Ignis: It is hard to say. My build is focused on initiative,which is good for duels. I am the only mage of my group, so I can get most mage's unique items, and my group and clan both have some great strategists for duels.
WH: Most of the high damage mages go fire. Why are you using electrical storm instead?
I: Actually I have played all kinds of mages and realized that energy is really better than fire. The main reason is Talent: Art of Offensive Magery. It gives quite a large bonus to both attack and damage roll, and secondly, the damage attribute is str, so its damage can be push by Experimental Strength. Besides Electrical Storm hits two more targets than fire rain, which is also importmant in group/clan duel. So,Electrical Storm hits more has more attack roll and does more damage.
The advange of fire is that you can use something like The fire amulet of Haron the Dark to do more damage,but those item have limited use and most effective when cri hit.
WH: Obviously, you have lots of pretty sweet items, and all the best enchanting a hero could ask for. Were you successful in duels before you got to that point, or was there sort of a "breaking point" for the power of your build?
I: I can't say it for sure. It is true some pieces of equipment (like cloak of eternal darkness,Gulgoltogh's girdle of penance and Golden Ring with a Black Diamond) are very powerful and will make a big difference in both duel and dungeon. The enchanting gives me more initiative and a higher attack roll. Those are important, but I am also very confident in my build =D.
WH: You don't use a premium account, and therefore no premium classes. How much does this affect your game play? Are you better at mages, for example, because that's all you play?
I: Oh, I have played wod for years (most in .org though), and have played almost all classes, but true, mage is always my favorite. I am also considering playing a Gladiator and an ice mage in next world :).
WH: I noticed in duel reports that your group doesn't really even buff you that much. Aside of the initiative buff from Captain and the aswadi drum, the only non-defensive buff on you was from use device (self). Just how powerful is that skill?
It is VERY powerful. With Gnomish talisman of energy you can get a rare initiative bonus and even an extra action. As a mage, you can't expect more from a pre-round skill, especially since AoP is no longer in this world. There are also some good devices like Use Device (Group), Schepwinkle's glowing ball, sulfur press. The other racial skill Deploy Traps is also very powerful in duels.
Actually I think that gnomes of this world are a little too powerful, at least for caster classes. The racial attack and defence bonus is good, the racial skill is very powerful (especially compared to other races), even the pocket enlarger item tool box is also great (it only require equip one device item and +3 extra pocket space, which means you can wear one powerful device and two other good pocket items, while elves have to wear 3 weak glyphs). I was a Tiram-Ag Elf mage before, but after I analyzed all races carefully, I converted to gnome immediately.
WH: Any other comments on your build, and how others can duplicate your success?
I: The key skill of my build is Talent: Art of Offensive Magery. I do think it is the best talent: attack roll, skill level damage, you've got all you want. I'd strongly suggest all mages (including fire and ice) choose the Sorcerer Warlock/Sorceress Witch subclass, even the attack bonus alone is good enough, and the other two talent skills are also not bad. On the other hand, energy is only powerful enough with Talent: Art of Offensive Magery. So,I suggest all mages who want to be enegrymage use fire before lvl 29, then use 2-3 reset points to convert to energy when you get Talent: Art of Offensive Magery and ring of liquid copper.
The Herald Wants YOU!
Got an interesting build you'd like to share? An idea you want to get out there? Too much bundled up creativity and no outlet? The Herald is looking for interviewees. To sign up, send a message to Jasvyr and shout your glorious information to the world (figuratively...there's no yelling allowed in journalism...)!!!