Summary
- Release Year: 2005
- Genres: Role-playing game (RPG)
- Platforms: PC (Microsoft Windows)
- Developers: Sony Online Entertainment
- Publishers: Gamania, Sony Online Entertainment, Square Enix
EverQuest II: Desert of Flames (2005)
Desert of Flames is the first expansion for the popular MMORPG EverQuest II. It was released on February 22, 2005, and introduced a wealth of new content to the game, including a new landmass to explore, new PvP arenas, a level increase from 50 to 60, and a new climb ability.
New Content
The Desert of Flames expansion added a vast new landmass to EverQuest II, including the following zones:
- Sinking Sands: A desolate desert region with towering pillars of flame and treacherous quicksand.
- Pillars of Flame: A volcanic region with active volcanoes and lava flows.
- Clefts of Rujark: A mountainous region with deep chasms and treacherous cliffs.
- Maj’Dul: A bustling dervish city with a unique culture and architecture.
In addition to these new zones, Desert of Flames also introduced a number of new instances, including:
- Poets Palace: A sprawling palace filled with treacherous traps and deadly monsters.
- Shimmering Citadel: A floating fortress that is home to a powerful dragon.
- Throne of the Frozen: A frozen wasteland that is the domain of the Snow Queen.
New Features
Desert of Flames introduced a number of new features to EverQuest II, including:
- PvP Arenas: Players can now engage in PvP combat in dedicated arenas, with rewards for victory.
- Level Cap Increase: The level cap was increased from 50 to 60, giving players new goals to strive for.
- Climb Ability: Players can now climb certain surfaces, opening up new areas to explore.
Major Quest Line
The major quest line in Desert of Flames is known as “The Peacock Line.” This series of quests culminates in a raid requiring players to group up with their guildmates to slay an entity known as “The Godking.” Players can choose from a selection of rewards to be used in the weapon slot depending on their class.
Reception
Desert of Flames was well-received by critics and players alike. It was praised for its vast new content, challenging new instances, and innovative new features. The expansion was also a commercial success, selling over 100,000 copies in its first month of release.
Legacy
Desert of Flames is considered to be one of the best expansions ever released for EverQuest II. It added a huge amount of new content to the game, and its innovative new features helped to set the stage for future expansions. Desert of Flames is still played by many EQ2 fans today, and it remains a popular destination for new players looking to experience the game’s rich lore and challenging content.
Tips for Playing Desert of Flames
If you’re planning on playing Desert of Flames, here are a few tips to help you get started:
- Start with the Sinking Sands: The Sinking Sands is the first zone in Desert of Flames, and it’s a good place to start your adventure. The quests in this zone are relatively easy, and they will help you get used to the new content.
- Join a Guild: Desert of Flames is a challenging expansion, and it’s helpful to have a group of friends to play with. Joining a guild will give you access to a network of players who can help you with quests, raids, and other challenges.
- Explore the New Instances: Desert of Flames introduces a number of new instances, and they are all worth exploring. These instances offer challenging combat, valuable loot, and unique experiences.
- Don’t Forget to Climb: The climb ability is a new feature in Desert of Flames, and it opens up new areas to explore. Be sure to use your climb ability to reach hidden areas and find new quests.
Conclusion
EverQuest II: Desert of Flames is a massive expansion that adds a huge amount of new content to the game. With its vast new landmass, challenging new instances, and innovative new features, Desert of Flames is a must-play for any EQ2 fan.
Review Score
8/10