Shining Lore E3 2003 Preshow Report

Do you love online RPGs, but hate the dark, brooding nature of so many games within the genre? Are you a fan of cuter, more light-hearted character and level design, but can't stand the simplistic, repetitive style of gameplay usually associated with games of that style? Then look no further than Shining Lore, an online RPG from NCsoft that features a unique mix of bright and bubbly Japanese-animation style characters and the more traditional, turn-based style of RPG gameplay.

You will begin by choosing your character within the game. Customization options for your character are plentiful, with options to edit your gender, face, hair, shirt, pants, gloves and shoes. Ornamental items such as necklaces and rings are also available. Professions available for your character include fighter, alchemist, ranger and magician. The game's job system will be segmented according to your player level, making a wide range of skills available. Partial changes can be made to your profession, allowing for up to thirty different professions in all.

Regardless of the game's younger look, the combat system in Shining Lore still contains a solid combat system. You can opt to hunt alone, or with others using the game's party system. Monsters will look fairly unassuming, but still provide a hefty, progressively more difficult challenge as the game goes on. Dynamic animations and polished special effects will also be evident during battle sequences. Combat will also not be your only gameplay option, as you will be able to do numerous tasks within the game's world, including standard exploration, seeking out new members for your party, partake in one of several minigames, or just chat it up with your friends via the game's exclusive messenger system.