Issue 4 - spoiler -

From PC Gamer March 2005 pg. 18:

Paragon City-- Breaking news erupted in the City of Heroes universe today as the mighty champion Statesman (aka Jack Emmert, lead designer and co-founder of Cryptic Studios) made a startling announcement: Player-versus-Player (PvP) combat is coming this spring.

In the free downloadable update "Issue #4: The Arena", the city's heroes will be able to test their abilities against one another in specially built stadiums (seen currently under construction in "Issue #3"). Combatants will be able to face off against mano-a-mano or in super-teams of up to eight heroes. Battle zones will be instanced for the participants, and will be set up to replicate familiar environments such as city ruins and Atlas Park. A security level of 14 will be required for admittance.

Another astonishing revelation: The arena will also house themed conflicts that incorporate mission objectives and even bestow temporary powers onto those bold enough to enter.

Even the most seemingly mundane powers will be useful in PvP battle. For example, Statesman tells us that "taunting" another hero will force them to attack you... even against their will. Likewise, an opponent who becomes "confused" by a Controller-class hero will be unable to tell friend from foe.

The "Issue #4" update will also introduce amazing "body scaling" technology to Paragon City's protectors, allowing them to tweak the size of waists, arms, and cheekbones... among other body parts. And direct from NCsoft's arists in Korea comes new costume-design elements inspired by anime and manga.

But what about the rumored crafting and skill system? "I was so terrified that we'd produce something that wouldn't be right," says Statesman about the delay. "We designed a whole system and it just didn't cut the mustard. So it's my fault."

In happier news, Statesman is gazing towards City of Heroes' first anniversary this April. Though details are shrouded in secrecy, Paragon City's first superhero promises a huge celebration and special events to mark the occasion. --"Snapper" Chuck Osborn


Bhe che dire...non vedo l'ora che esca :D