Here is another commentary about an MMORPG that is unlike any other. I’m talking about Atlantica Online. Atlantica is a strategic, turn-based MMORPG that is being published by Nexon. Yup. You heard it right. There is such a thing as a turn-based MMORPG.

Now if you’re not a fan of this kind of battle system, I suppose you may opt to try one of the other hundreds of MMOs out there. But if you are one of the classic RPG fans like Final Fantasy, Breath of Fire, and many others, I will really recommend this game.

As we go to the character creation screen, a bunch of different weapons will be available. The weapon that you choose will determine the “class” of your character. As seen in the screenshot below, there are currently a total of nine weapons to choose from. It has melee weapons like sword and shield, spear, axe, and powersaw. For ranged weapons, bow, gun, and cannon are available. Other weapon types include staff and instrument. Each weapon has its own strengths and weaknesses. Choosing a weapon will primarily be dependent on your playing style. I will discuss the different weapon types in another blog entry.

Once you enter the game, there will be a tutorial that will teach you the basics. It is pretty much straight forward. The important thing here is that you will be able to acquire two mercenaries by the end of the tutorial to create a party, and another one when you reach level 5.

This is where the game begins to get interesting. For every 10 levels, you will be able to include one additional mercenary to your party. At level 50, you will be able to maximize your party with 9 characters (1 main and 8 mercenaries). Not all mercenaries are available at the start. Some of them are unlocked as you reach a certain level. They can also be acquired through various means like doing their quest chain, paying gold while they are wandering, participating in events, or buying (unfortunately) at the cash shop.

Currently, there are more than 25 mercenaries to choose from (I forgot the exact number). This gives rise to various different builds. I can discuss some of the more popular builds and strategies in another blog entry. But right now, it is important to note that there is no one perfect build. Each build has its own strengths and weaknesses, and it still depends on your skill and strategy as a player, to win in PVP fights. Personally, even after playing many battles of PVP, I haven’t encountered an enemy with the exact same build that I have.

<This is not my party. I was only a spectator here.>

The game has a lot of good features, but is also hindered by a few flaws. But like my commentary about Dragon Nest, I just tackled the more important aspects first, before I delve into the details of the game. One thing is for sure though, if you like turn-based battles, Atlantica Online can give you a fun experience. It is always so fascinating to assemble a party and be able to strategize when playing against other people. The description that Atlantica Online is a strategic, turn-based game, is truly not just a marketing gimmick.