Champions Online Launched

Due to the forum problems we were having yesterday, I apparently missed the press release announcing the launch of Cryptic Studios’ Champions Online. Better late than never, right?

(New York, NY) September 1, 2009 Atari Inc., one of the world’s most recognized videogame publishers, and Cryptic Studios, creators of the acclaimed City of Heroes and City of Villains are proud to unleash the ultimate superhero universe: Champions Onlineâ„¢ is now available for Windows PC online and at stores across North America and will be available in Europe on September 4, 2009. Based on the award winning pen and paper role-playing game, Champions, from HERO Games and powered by the groundbreaking Cryptic Engine, Champions Online taps into a rich universe of heroes and villains with unparalleled intrigue and adventure.

Cryptic Studios, already a leading developer and publisher of massively multiplayer online role-playing games (MMORPGs), has taken the genre to new heights with Champions Online’s fast paced, (real time) action combat and the power of total customization. Through Champions’ unique character customization tool the player can create and individualize every component of their hero: name, back story, costume, powers and abilities can all be modified in countless ways. In addition to allowing players to transform into the ultimate hero, gamers can craft an enemy of the extreme opposite, concoct a villainous history for their ultimate foe and guarantee themselves a truly unique experience.

(Champions Online is a great addition to Atari’s line-up,) said John Needham, CEO of Cryptic Studios. (After considerable anticipation and excitement, we are thrilled to present Champions to fans and gamers worldwide, and look forward to seeing what players create with the game’s limitless customization options. We are already hard at work developing new content and updates that will expand the Champions Online world even further.)

Champions Online brings epic heroism back to the MMORPG genre with depth that will certainly challenge the most experienced online gamers, while its fast paced action promises to engage new entrants to the online superhero universe. Enter a world where the diabolical genius Dr. Destroyer has returned to wreak havoc. After he single-handedly destroyed the city of Detroit, many thought he had perished in the colossal explosion, but he is back to inflict his evil plans on the unsuspecting world. Join with Defender and the legendary Champions to stop Dr. Destroyer and his minions in an ultimate showdown of good versus evil.