EverQuest II: The Shadow Odyssey Reviews

The reviews of SOE’s latest EverQuest II expansion pack have been fairly sparse, but there are at least a few to tell you about. The first is at IGN with a score of 7.0/10:

The Shadow Odyssey gives the majority of the EQII player base new challenges, introducing a new kind of thinking game play that requires more brains than brawn at times. It does require a level of character progression and organizational competence from players that many find difficult to achieve in the casual environment of the previous level of EQII gameplay. The introduction of scripted instanced dungeons, puzzles, and missions has brought into focus player ability and gear levels that no previous content has done before. The fine line between casual fun and a dedication to good game play and character progression has been drawn in TSO.

For those players with the gear, experience, and character statistics to handle higher-level encounters, this expansion is a delight, requiring a group to work together as a team in a challenging environment with interesting puzzles and storylines. For the average player that has played casually, it’s a learning curve in the Shadow Odyssey, with the pressure on to get better gear. Despite some of the unintended social grouping issues, The Shadow Odyssey is a well-designed expansion that gives more depth and playability to the game. It revives the social aspect of an MMO that had drifted toward solitary play styles, and brings new and different challenges to an already robust world.

The second is at Ten Ton Hammer with a score of 4/5:

This expansion is a solid addition to the EQ2 world and should please anyone who is currently playing or left during Rise of Kunark. For those returning from other MMOGs, you may find the game a little complex and more challenging than you remember. This is not the streamlined UI and combat you might have become accustomed to. With strategic combat and dozens of buttons, it can feel a bit archaic and overwhelming at times. It’s much like riding a bike, although this bike would have 40 controls and swerve while giant evil icicles tried to bite you. I found with a little patience and a number of understanding friends, you can get back in the swing of things and become a contributing member of your group. If you are looking for a break from what you are currently playing or have gotten bored with the lack of challenge in other games, The Shadow Odyssey should provide refreshing change.

And the third is at Thunderbolt with a score of 9/10:

EverQuest II is truly an immense game. Unparalleled avatar creation coupled with massive choice in character customisation means you’ll really feel like your digital representation is unique to you. With many varied landscapes to explore and tonnes of quests to keep you busy, you won’t get bored of what Norrath has to offer any time soon. You might get a little lost on your journey sometimes, but you’ll never feel anything less than totally immersed. EverQuest II comes highly recommended both to MMORPG newbies and to those who might have become jaded with what other MMORPGs have to offer.