Anarchy Online
THE FIRST MASSIVELY MULTIPLAYER ONLINE RPG IN A SCI-FI SETTING (note: the ad blurb is in full caps in the box)
Source:
Inside Box Cover
IN A DISTANT FUTURE...
The year is 29,475 AD - the and the place is Rubi-Ka, a brave new world on the other fringes of known space.
As a new citizen and colonist, you are propelled into perilous and unfamiliar territory, and you will soon have to decide where your allegiance lies. Whether you sympathize with the rebel clans or with the corporate behemoth Omni-Tek, your decision will affect everyone. In this world, the future is in your hands.
Anarchy Online is a massively multiplayer Internet role-playing game featuring thousands of players simultaneously in a persistent, living universe. Inhabiting an alien planet in a distant future, players - in groups or on their own - are free to explore a stunningly detailed sci-fi environment, converse and socialize with other players, solve numerous quests, and battle strange and otherworldly creatures!
FEATURES - A sprawling, futuristic 3D world encompassing an entire alien planet, with a wide variety of terrain - huge cities, wild forests, high mountains, arid deserts and stunning waterfalls
An epic story-arc spanning the four-year lifecycle of the game, shaped by individual player actions
Thousands of players interacting simultaneously - chat, socialize, quest or fight with fellow gamers from across the globe!
Customize a player character in a number of different ways, including choice of breeds, character classes, skin color, clothing, equipment, and express yourself with more than 40 different social animations.
Auto-generated content, individually tailored to each player's talents and skills - in addition to player-generated quests
Learn and improve a huge number of customizable player skills, ranging from lock picking and ranged combat, to computer literacy and nano technology.
Source:
Back of Box
IN EINER FERNEN ZUKUNFT....
**Wir schreiben das Jhr 29475. Rubi-Ka ist eine wunderbare neue Welt am äußeren Rand des bekannten Universums.
Als neuer Bürger und Kolonist wirst du auf einen gefährlichen, fremdartigen Planeten gebracht. Schon bald wirst du dich entscheiden müssen, auf welcher Seite du stehen willst. Wirst du dich den Rebellen-Clans anschließen oder ein Teil von Omni-Tek werden, dem Unternehmen, das diesen Planeten beherrscht? Deine Entscheidung wird für alle Anderen Konsequenzen haben. Denn in dieser Welt liegt die Zukunft in deinen Händen!
Anarchy Online ist ein reines Internet-Rollenspiel mit tausenden von Spielern in einem dauerhaft existierenden Universum. Auf einem anderen Planeten in einer fernen Zukunft hat der Spieler die Freiheit, allein oder in Gruppen eine höchst detailliert dargestellte Welt zu erkunden, sich mit anderen Spielern zu unterhalten und anzufreunden, Aufgaben lösen und mächtige und gefährliche Kreaturen zu bekämpfen.**
FEATURES
Eine ausgedehnte, futuristische 3D-Welt, die sich über einen ganzen Planeten erstreckt, mit abwechslungsreichen Landschaften, riesigen Städten, wilden Wäldern, hohen Bergen, trockenen Wüsten und fantastischen Wasserfällen.
Eine epische Geschichte, die sich über einen vierjährigen Lebenszyklus des Spiels hinzieht und von den Handlungen der Spieler bestimmt wird.
Tausende Spieler aus aller Welt, die miteinander interagieren - reden, Freundschaften schließen, kämpfen oder gemeinsam Aufgaben meistern.
Erstelle eine Spielfigur nach deinem Wunsch. Wähle Rasse, Charakterklasse, Hautfarbe, Kleidung, Ausrüstung und mehr. 40 Animationen stehen dir zur Verfügung, um deine Gefühle mitzuteilen.
Automatisch generierte Spielinhalte, auf die Talente und Eigenschaften jedes Spielers zugeschnitten - zusätzliche Aufgaben können von Spielern erstellt werden.
Erlerne und vertiefe eine riesige Anzahl von einstellbaren Fähigkeiten, vom Öffnen von Schlössern bis zu unterschiedlichen Kampftechniken, von Copmputerwissen bis zu Nano-Technologie
Weite Infomationen unter:
www.anarchy-online.com
Hinweis
Dieses Produkt benötigt eine Internet-Verbindung. Entsprechende Software oder Hardware ist in diesem Produkt nicht enthalten.
FĂĽr das Spielen von Anarchy Online wird eine monatliche GebĂĽhr berechnet. Diese muss mit einer Kreditkarte bezahlt werden. Die GebĂĽhr fĂĽr den ersten Monat ist im Kaufpreis fĂĽr dieses Produkt enthalten.
Kämpfe allein oder im Team gegen Monster oder andere Spieler! Schaffe deine eigene Spielfigur und spezialisiere deine Fähigkeiten! Investiere dein schwer verdientes Geld in Waffen und Ausrüstung
Source:
Back of Box (German)
Durham, USA - June 27, 2007 - Funcom is proud to announce the introduction of a additional business model for Anarchy Online, exactly six years after the launch of the world's first sci-fi MMO. Set to launch this summer, Funcom now introduces a point-based system where players can purchase selected virtual items, as well as new content and services. The new approach comes as an addition to Anarchy Online's existing business models, and it is a current Funcom focus to only introduce items which do not affect gameplay balance.
The first virtual items to kick off the program will be the introduction of jetbikes and hover boards, giving players the chance to cruise around Rubi-Ka in an all new fashion. In addition Funcom will offer previously released scout-mechs, luxury apartments, Leet pets and various sets of social clothing. By using points the players can also get access to previous and upcoming expansion and booster packs, as well as new services like changing in-game names or moving to another server.
"Funcom has long been a pioneer on new MMO business models, and with the introduction of virtual item sales we are once again moving our game in an exciting new direction," said Trond Arne Aas, CEO of Funcom. "Selling virtual items and smaller content upgrades is now a prevalent MMO business model in Asia. This has yet to be fully explored in the west, but we believe that the time is now right to test a limited version of such a model. At the same time we remain committed to the overall evolution of the game, making sure that Anarchy Online will be a success for many years to come."
"Celebrating six years is a fantastic milestone for Anarchy Online, and we are genuinely honored to still entertain so many people," said Craig Morrison, Producer and Director on Anarchy Online. "As we now introduce a new addition to Anarchy Online we have ensured that our paying customers get certain privileges. At the same time we also want to show our commitment to taking the overall gameplay experience forward. I am therefore glad to announce that we are developing a new graphics engine for the game, replacing our entire server farm, as well as developing exciting booster packs which include new playfields and more."
Source:
Press Release
Gameplay
Anarchy Online (AO) is a science fiction themed massive multiplayer online roleplaying game (MMORPG). The first three expansion packs, Notum Wars, Shadowlands and Alien Invasion, have received high praise and won 20 international awards.
Step almost 30,000 years into the future, to an age where common surgical implants and microscopic nano-bots can relieve most forms of human suffering... or transform any normal being into a weapon of destructive force.
On the planet of Rubi-Ka, a battle rages between the haves and have-nots in a time when the clans seek liberation from the all-powerful Omni-Tek corporation in the name of justice, voluntarily if possible; from the barrel of a gun if necessary. The leaders of both sides are desperately seeking a solution that can stop the violence ravaging the planet, against a backdrop of betrayal, military raids and conniving political games, cyborg assassins and modified humans.
You are 30.000 years into the future. You're in the age... of Anarchy Online.
Features * Enjoy unparalleled character customization, including 80 character skills, hundreds of special attacks, thousands of items and a wide range of clothes, weapons and armour. No other online game delivers more character customization and depth.
Explore an epic and believable sci-fi universe with an involving and deep backstory
Experience fast-paced gameplay with more action and intensity and less camping.
Choose your playing style and select one of 14 different professions. Soldier, special agent, pet profession, healer, technological expert, trader or adventurer... you choose
Go solo or join groups and guilds, AO is packed with fun content for everyone
Instanced dungeon areas mixed with a wide range of static dungeons and quests means that there is always something to do, even for that half hour session.
Express yourself through voice, emotes or chat in a fantastic social environment with clubs, bars, guild houses, player apartments, social clothes and much more.
Fight thousands of exciting monsters in a fantastic player versus environment gameworld, or challenge human opponents to conquer land in large PvP areas.
Immerse yourself in a world with a fantastic musical score and unique art direction.
Enter AO more easily with dedicated beginner areas and live in-game assistance
Travel in style with futuristic flying vehicles available to all professions, and access all areas efficiently and fast.
Superior in-game Customer Service including a greeter to help ease your first few steps on Rubi-Ka.
Join a friendly, large and established player community.
And much much more...
Source:
www.anarchy-online.com (Official website)
Anarchy Online Without Subscription Fees!
Durham, USA — December 15, 2004 – Funcom announces that Anarchy Online will be the first major western live MMO without a subscription fee*. In a unique move Funcom is removing all cost barriers in the ultimate sci-fi MMORPG, allowing all new players to enter and stay, free of cost! At the same time Funcom is departing from the obligatory need to register with a credit card, making for an easier entrance and registration process.
In an increasingly competitive market for fantasy MMO games, Anarchy Online stands out as the superior alternative if you like online RPG’s and sci-fi. Not only will this new and totally free approach allow everyone tired of elves, fairies and gnomes to enter a futuristic RPG world full of fun action, it will also make it possible for those who are sci-fi fans to explore a world hailed and rewarded as the best sci-fi MMO available today.
“Funcom has always been recognized as an inventive MMO developer. This unique move will allow us to test important new business models prior to announcing future online games, while also giving everyone the chance to experience the best online sci-fi RPG totally free of cost” said Trond Arne Aas, President and CEO of Funcom.
“We feel very confident in the unique features and heralded qualities of our game, and are now openly inviting everyone playing MMO’s to find out what Anarchy Online is all about, completely free of commitment” said Ole Schreiner, Project Director for Anarchy Online. “Not only can we boast of a fantastic game which has been expanding for years, we are also constantly adding exciting new content, progressively making the ultimate sci-fi MMORPG even better.”
More information, videos and screenshots from the award-winning game: www.anarchy-online.com
To download the free full version of Anarchy Online: www.anarchy-online.com/free/ad_campaigns/freecampaign
Prominent awards and press quotes: http://community.anarchy-online.com/content/game/inthemedia/
* Offer valid only on new accounts created between 15 December 2004 and 15 January 2005. Other restrictions and conditions may apply. See registration information for details. The free version does not include access to any of the three expansion packs. Should you wish to upgrade to any of the expansion packs monthly subscription and client fees will be added.
Source:
Funcom press release (December 15, 2004)
Funcom Extends Free Offer Into 2006
Durham, USA — January 14, 2005 – Funcom announces that the free Anarchy Online offer has been a tremendous success and will be fully extended throughout all of 2005 and into 2006*. Anarchy Online now has more users than ever before, and the player feedback about the experience Funcom is offering has been fantastic. The game is setting records on an ongoing basis, with more active players now than seen in the month of launch more than 3,5 years ago.
It’s currently the long-term goal for Funcom to make sure that the removal of subscription fees, client costs and the need to have a credit card when registering for Anarchy Online will become a permanent offering, making sure that anyone curious about the heralded qualities of the ultimate sci-fi MMORPG can play without any financial commitments.
“The free initiative has been a tremendous success” says Ole Schreiner, Project Director for Anarchy Online. ”Throngs of new players have entered the game and created a vibrant pioneer feeling for all those who see the wonders of Anarchy Online for the first time. Even though our servers and customer service have been under strong pressure, it’s assuring to see our technology holding up with such stability”.
“Seeing the great feedback from the free offer we are aiming to extend it into 2006 and beyond should it prove to be a continued success” said Trond Arne Aas, President and CEO of Funcom. “We are happy to be part of something which has sent such positive waves throughout the MMO communities, while significantly lowering the entrance barrier to enter Anarchy Online.”
This new and totally free approach allows everyone tired of elves, fairies and gnomes to enter a futuristic RPG world full of fun action totally free of cost, and makes it possible for all sci-fi fans to explore a world hailed as the best sci-fi MMO available today.
More information, videos and screenshots from the award-winning game: http://www.anarchy-online.com
To download the free full version of Anarchy Online: http://www.anarchy-online.com/free/ad_campaigns/freecampaign
Prominent awards and press quotes: http://community.anarchy-online.com/content/game/inthemedia/
*Offer valid only on new accounts. No charges involved. Offer valid on all sign-ups until 15.01.2006. Other restrictions and conditions may apply. Offer may be terminated at Funcom’s discretion in the case of unforeseen events. See registration information for details. The free version does not include access to any of the three expansion packs. Should you wish to upgrade to any of the expansion packs monthly subscription and client fees will be added.
Source:
Funcom press release (January 14, 2005)
New Era for Advertisement in Games Begins With Anarchy Online
Durham, USA - July 25, 2005 - Funcom, developer and publisher of top video game titles like Anarchy Online and The Longest Journey, has once again broken away from the pack to bring a bold new direction for advertisement in videogames. By working in conjunction with Massive Incorporated, creator of the world's first video game advertising network, Funcom is now offering dynamically delivered video ads in Anarchy Online. The new advertising elements accompany the dynamic billboard ads introduced earlier this spring.
In Anarchy Online the video and audio ads start playing on billboards or other appropriate locations when gamers enter select areas or zones within the game. This ground-breaking new advertising element has two distinct applications; it can be used to dynamically deliver television equivalent 15-second advertising spots, as well as audio messaging. The advertisements, using a combination of code created by Massive Incorporated and Funcom coders and utilizing technology licensed from RAD Game tools, do not increase latency, interrupt gameplay or gather personal information from players. Like the prior advertisements, those opting for the entirely free version of Anarchy Online will see the videos as a natural part of the city environments, while paying subscribers may opt in to view the content. The first video ads were unveiled to players at the four year anniversary for Anarchy Online in June, and brought fictional video advertisements from the warring factions in the game. Now the first paid video advertisements are in, with Panasonic and Channel 4 being the first companies to kick-start the new era for advertising in games.
“The visions we have had for Anarchy Online have been given a boost by this technology and the years ahead are now looking more promising than ever before." said Trond Aas, CEO of Funcom. “We are once again first in bringing a great new innovation to the market, and by combining what players desire with what we need and what advertisers are requesting we are opening more doors of opportunity for us all. The high professionalism of Massive Incorporated, mixed with our own unique design and technology implementation, have made the advertisements a hit with the Anarchy Online population. Now we set our eyes towards the next ad evolution and Funcom is naturally pleased to be a driving force behind this innovation."
No stranger to innovation, Funcom's Anarchy Online has introduced numerous design and marketing innovations, including the 7 day free trial and the instanced dungeon / mission on demand system, while also being the first graphical MMO in the western world to be offered at no fee. Morten Byom, Game Director for Anarchy Online stated, “Ever since we started working with Massive we have seen how positive our players have been about the free subscription and the way the ads have created life in many areas of the game. I now believe that advertisements and games may form a perfect symbiosis in the years to come as long as it's tastefully implemented."
This new ability to bring exciting video advertisement to players from across the globe does not only open the door for advertisers, it also enables developers like Funcom to toy around with a wide variety of new design and marketing opportunities. Someday games like Anarchy Online might stage live concerts and live appearances, show the latest music videos in the clubs and even deliver in-character newscasts to entertain and inform players. The technology gives numerous possibilities and expands the opportunities for creative game developers.
Source:
Funcom press release (July 25, 2005)
Funcom Extends the Free Offer on Anarchy Online into 2007
Durham, USA -September 13, 2005 - Funcom announces that the free Anarchy Online offer has been a tremendous success and will be extended throughout all of 2006 and into 2007*. It's the long-term goal for Funcom to make sure that the removal of subscription fees, client costs and the need to have a credit card when registering for Anarchy Online remains a permanent offering. Now, and for the year to come, anyone curious about the heralded qualities of the ultimate sci-fi MMORPG can play without any financial commitments.
“The free initiative has been a great success," says Trond Arne Aas, CEO of Funcom. "More than 400.000 new players have signed up during the last ten months, and extremely few MMO titles can show a similar increase in registrations in the same timeframe. Seeing the great feedback from the free offer we are thus going to extend it into 2007 and beyond."
This totally free approach allows everyone tired of elves, fairies and gnomes to enter a futuristic RPG world full of fun action totally free of cost, and makes it possible for all sci-fi fans to explore a world hailed as the best sci-fi MMO available today.
More information, videos and screenshots from the award-winning game: http://www.anarchy-online.com
To download the free full version of Anarchy Online: http://www.anarchy-online.com/free/ad_campaigns/freecampaign
Prominent awards and press quotes: http://community.anarchy-online.com/content/game/inthemedia/
*Offer valid only on new accounts. No charges involved. Offer valid on all sign-ups until 15.01.2007. Other restrictions and conditions may apply. Offer may be terminated at Funcom's discretion in the case of unforeseen events. See registration information for details. The free version does not include access to any of the three expansion packs. Should you wish to upgrade to any of the expansion packs monthly subscription and client fees will be added.
Source:
Funcom press release (September 13, 2005)
Funcom extends unique free offer in Anarchy Online to 2008
Durham, USA - October 27, 2006 - Funcom announces an extension of the completely free and play-all-you-want offer in Anarchy Online until January 2008. The free offer was a major MMO first when originally introduced and to date almost one million players have registered a free account in "Anarchy Online", making it one of the most successful western MMO games of all times.
The expanded free offer now not only extends the opportunity to play the most heralded sci-fi MMO for free, but also include the award-winning "Anarchy Online - Notum Wars" giving free players the chance to take part Player versus Player combat.
“The free offer has been an amazing success and a chance to show massive amounts of players how good this game actually is," said Trond Arne Aas, CEO of Funcom. “With a new expansion around the corner, an improved free offer, continued development and few good sci-fi MMO games around we believe "Anarchy Online"can remain successful for years to come. At the same time we gain invaluable large-scale data on innovative business and distribution models, enabling us to shape the future of our other games better informed."
The free offer content is now greatly expanded through the "Notum Wars" addition. When released, "Notum Wars" brought a whole new dimension to Player vs. Player MMO combat. With it, players could claim control of large areas of land, build a base with an array of towers and then fight it out with other players to achieve control, prestige and power. With numerous additional features "Notum Wars" now gives all free players a new kind of experience, with more possibilities.
The new and improved offer includes the entire classic version of "Anarchy Online", named “Best MMO of the Year" by PC Gamer US, and "Anarchy Online - Notum Wars" “Expansion Pack of the Year"in Computer Gaming World. Those who play for free are exposed to dynamic in-game advertising, a successful revenue concept implemented by Funcom and developed by Massive Inc. If the player upgrades to additional expansion packs, a monthly subscription fee kicks in, but the player will not be exposed to the ads.
More game information and download links can be found at http://www.anarchy-online.com . The game is available as a peer-to-peer download through Bittorrent and seeded by Funcom to get the fastest possible download speed.
Source:
Funcom press release (October 27, 2006)
Funcom Introduces Virtual Item Sales in Anarchy Online
Durham, USA - June 27, 2007 - Funcom is proud to announce the introduction of a additional business model for Anarchy Online, exactly six years after the launch of the world's first sci-fi MMO. Set to launch this summer, Funcom now introduces a point-based system where players can purchase selected virtual items, as well as new content and services. The new approach comes as an addition to Anarchy Online's existing business models, and it is a current Funcom focus to only introduce items which do not affect gameplay balance.
The first virtual items to kick off the program will be the introduction of jetbikes and hover boards, giving players the chance to cruise around Rubi-Ka in an all new fashion. In addition Funcom will offer previously released scout-mechs, luxury apartments, Leet pets and various sets of social clothing. By using points the players can also get access to previous and upcoming expansion and booster packs, as well as new services like changing in-game names or moving to another server.
"Funcom has long been a pioneer on new MMO business models, and with the introduction of virtual item sales we are once again moving our game in an exciting new direction," said Trond Arne Aas, CEO of Funcom. "Selling virtual items and smaller content upgrades is now a prevalent MMO business model in Asia. This has yet to be fully explored in the west, but we believe that the time is now right to test a limited version of such a model. At the same time we remain committed to the overall evolution of the game, making sure that Anarchy Online will be a success for many years to come."
"Celebrating six years is a fantastic milestone for Anarchy Online, and we are genuinely honored to still entertain so many people," said Craig Morrison, Producer and Director on Anarchy Online. "As we now introduce a new addition to Anarchy Online we have ensured that our paying customers get certain privileges. At the same time we also want to show our commitment to taking the overall gameplay experience forward. I am therefore glad to announce that we are developing a new graphics engine for the game, replacing our entire server farm, as well as developing exciting booster packs which include new playfields and more."
The Funcom points can at first be purchased in 10 and 20 USD / EUR packages. As an example of the price a new jetbike starts as low as 3 dollars, while a complete set of bikes can be bought for about 10 dollars. Players who are paying subscribers of Anarchy Online will get a set of monthly points included in the subscription price, and longer pricing plans like 6 and 12 months gives extra points. As an added incentive Funcom will send points to the player account upon receipt of subscription dues.
For more information about the game please visit www.anarchy-online.com.
Source:
Funcom press release (June 27, 2007)
Anarchy Online offers a unique massively multiplayer online experience set almost 30,000 years into the future. Comprised of several expansions and booster packs, Anarchy Online remains one of the most massive science fiction games of all time. The game has received critical acclaim and has won over 20 international awards. It is now available as free to play.
GAME FEATURES
- Unparalleled character customization
Enjoy unparalleled character customization, including 80 character skills, hundreds of special attacks, thousands of items and a wide range of clothes, weapons and armor. No other online game delivers more character customization and depth. Become an Adventurer, Trader, Soldier, Agent or anything in between.
- The Vast Sci-Fi World of Rubi-Ka
Explore an epic and believable science fiction universe with an involving and deep back-story. Journey across the vast reaches of Rubi-Ka, from the arid deserts to the rolling green hills or even the floating city of Jobe. The world of Anarchy Online is absolutely enormous thanks to several expansion and booster packs.
- Exciting Player vs. Player Conflict
Mount spectacular Mechs and charge onto the battlefield as you lay waste to your enemies. Engage in the epic battle between the Omni-Tek Corporation and the Rebels of Rubi-Ka, take control of land areas, build your own city, and reap the countless rewards generated from the powerful Notum Towers.
- Repel the Relentless Alien Forces
With the Alien Invasion expansion, aliens have begun their attacks on Rubi-Ka. Players can now build powerful cities on the surface of Rubi-Ka, which can be attacked by alien forces. Players must protect their cities, attacking and even boarding the ships of the alien invaders. Rule the sky in futuristic flying vehicles.
​ Engage In Thrilling Social Gameplay*
In Anarchy Online​ you can buy your own apartment, furnish it and invite your friends over. Explore sprawling cities and meet up with other players at bars, clubs, guild houses and stores. Rubi-Ka is a living, breathing science fiction world and only you can decide on which direction to head in.
Source:
www.funcom.com (Developer's website)
Contributed by Xoleras, JPaterson, Patrick Bregger, Jeanne.