It wouldn't be an EverQuest game if the new world wasn't populated with an array of dangerous beasts, and Velious has more than its fair share. The new enormous creatures like storm giants and ice dragons will have novices scurrying for their lives, and are powerful enough to truly challenge a team of seasoned adventurers. In fact, beginners should definitely spend a lot of time with the original game (including The Ruins of Kunark) before even thinking about entering the unforgiving land of Velious. This world was obviously designed to give powerful high-level characters a serious challenge.

Some long-awaited technology improvements prove that Verant Interactive is devoted to improving the game. The graphics have been cleaned up and are more detailed than those found in previous installments. The interface has been updated to run at all resolutions, meaning no more jarring resolution switches when doing things such as buying equipment. On the gameplay side, there are many in-game factions players can align themselves with, and the inevitable rivalries add an extra level of depth to the fun. There are also plenty of quests to solve, and the best part of EverQuest--its devoted online community--only gets better with time. EverQuest subscribers will definitely want to pick up this expansion. --T. Byrl Baker

Pros:

• Better graphics, with a tightly maintained theme
• Gives high-level characters plenty to do
• Interface enhancements allow for smoother gameplay

• Far too tough for beginners
• If you don't like EverQuest, this won't change your mind

EverQuest is a multiplayer online game you play via the Internet. A stable Internet connection is required to play. Sony Online Entertainment charges a small monthly fee for this game, separate from your Internet service provider access charges. The first month of this fee is included in the purchase price of this package. You must provide a valid credit card to register and play. After your first month, you can use your credit card to buy more time.