Aion takes wing September 22

Aion: Tower of Eternity launched in NCsoft's native Korea late last year, and the massively multiplayer online role-playing game had an immediate impact on the company's bottom line. As part of its most recent financial disclosure, NCsoft attributed its 51 percent jump in first-quarter net revenues and 315 percent spike in net profits to the game.

Turning its eye now to attractive Western markets, NCsoft said today that Aion will launch on the PC in North America on September 22, with the European rollout occurring three days later. NCsoft plans to offer the game both as a retail disc and through a variety of digital distribution channels, including the publisher's own Web site and Steam.

NCsoft is offering an advanced look at Aion before its official September release as part of its preorder incentive program. Those who buy the MMOG in advance at participating retailers--including GameStop, Amazon, and Best Buy--will automatically gain entry to Aion's closed beta test. The beta will be open to preorderers during the weekends beginning July 3, July 17, July 31, and August 14.

A story-driven MMORPG, Aion presents a conflict between two ancient races who have only recently reestablished contact with one another. One of the game's distinguishing characteristics is the importance of flight, which NCsoft promises will impact combat and quests as much as exploration.

For more information, check out GameSpot's previous coverage of Aion: Tower of Eternity.