Dark Age of Camelot

Reviewed by Dominic Graziano
January 2, 2006

Developer: Mythic Entertainment Publisher: Mythic Entertainment Website: www.Mythicentertainment.com Platform(s): PC ESRB Rating: T for Teen Review Rating: 9.5 out of 10

Whenever I ask people about Dark Age of Camelot, I generally get one of two responses. “I played DAoC when it first came out, but the graphics weren’t that great and it was hard to learn” or “Dark Age of What?”

Graphics in the early years of DAoC. Click image to enlarge.

Approximately four years ago, Mythic Entertainment launched its first major title, Dark Age of Camelot (DAoC). At its debut, this fantasy MMORPG was by no means a graphics winner, but it did bring to the table a few excellent game play elements never before seen in the MMO universe.

Among the most notable ‘DAoC’ innovations was ‘RvR’ (Realm vs. Realm) combat. For the first time in MMO history there was a game which had organized and meaningful Player vs. Player combat. Moreover, the game brought three unique factions to war: Albion (based on Camelot Lore), Hibernia (based on Celtic lore) and Midgard (based on Nordic lore).

DAoC' s predecessors did not design their games around PvP, but rather inserted it as an afterthought and for this reason it was mostly disorganized and did not have any overall meaning, that is to say there were a lot of people running around killing each other aimlessly. For some people meaning isn't required, but for most people it definitely provides a motivation to play. When a player logs in and hears of an epic battle between their realm and another, there is a motivation to help and confidence that as a team you can accomplish something. In unorganized PvP, there is a random assortment of people killing each other at any given time, which is far too unpredictable.

Comparison of old character model (left) to new (right). Click image to enlarge.

As a four-year veteran of this game, I have seen Mythic continue to make it more and more enjoyable and engaging-they definitely haven't been asleep at the wheel these past 4 years! The graphics have been improved and are now on the same level, if not better than, those found in the contemporary counterparts such as Lineage II , Everquest II and World of Warcraft . The game play has changed considerably during the past four years; new classes, new races, new items, and several other new ways to improve a character, but the basic premise of three warring factions is still the same.

Is the game still fun? Yes, it is definitely still fun after 4 years of changes and adjustments. Is it still difficult to learn to play? Well, if one compares via experiences with games like World of Warcraft and Guild Wars , then yes, it is a bit harder to learn; although, since the release, Mythic has added a tutorial section which can be played anytime one creates a new character. This new feature allows a player to make some major leaps towards understanding DAOC mechanics. During the tutorial, one learns how to move, fight, interact with NPCs (non player characters), and how to quest. The tutorial also introduces a player to the neighboring threats by simulating a Realm vs. Realm battle.

Okay, so you understand how to play, but why start now? Aren't you way behind your competition? Wouldn't it be futile to try to compete? Surprisingly enough, I have to say no. Since the main point of DAoC is Realm vs. Realm combat (organized player vs. player), the ever intimidating “Level Grind” is secondary, and in fact, it is designed to both teach a gamer how to play and to outfit a character properly for PvP combat. One can even level through RvR combat in special Battlegrounds that range from level 1 to level 44, changing every 4 levels to keep combat balanced.

Victors of an RvR battle gloating over their fallen foes. Click image to enlarge.

If that was not enough, there is even a free level system in place for casual players. If one gains a level by normal experience gaining means, 3-5 days later (depending on server population) one receives an additional free level. This system works up to level 48, which allows casual players to perceive level 50 as attainable.

Once a character reaches the level 50 cap, one begins to RvR. Each PvP kill brings a player one step closer to a new ability or an enhancing statistic. With new features like Guild banner carriers, RvR missions, and a combat indication mini-map, the game takes on a brand new speed and intensity.

If someone becomes bored of fighting, there are about 100 other things to do. Obtaining artifacts (special weapons and gear), achievement of master levels & champion levels, engaging in epic quests, trade-skills, friendly duels, boss-mob raids, just to list a few. In fact, there are some who hardly ever RvR because they prefer to enjoy the rich PvE (Player vs. Environment) content.

There are those who would say that DAoC has lost its ‘edge' over the years, the continual rebalancing of the game has often upset people who might not have seen the big picture. However, to be honest, the game has just become bigger and given players more to do, which has made some of the less ambitious players frustrated. Mythic uses new content to challenge players and keep the player base thinking of new strategies.

If you are a former player, I suggest coming back and giving it another try. If you have never played DAoC , I recommend giving it a thorough try, especially if you're already familiar with other MMORPGs mechanics.

With an investment of $40.00 (MSRP), one can purchase DAoC and all the expansions. The excellent evolving and dynamic PvP coupled with the substantive PvE content makes this an excellent choice for an avid MMO player.

More Screenshots:

An Instance dungeon in Midgard, The Nordic Realm. Click image to enlarge.		Content from Darkness Rising, DAoC’s latest expansion. Click image to enlarge.