Two classes down, the Scion of Set and the Lich classes will not make into the final build, but their abilities will be implemented and spread across other classes. The class list falls to 12, and not much information has been shown or divulged about the Ranger class. Until now, apparently someone forgot they signed an NDA and posted this AoC beta video showing their level 12 Ranger dinking around outside or in Tortage. (Note: The annoying random Ventrilo chatter has nothing to do with the video.)
Not much can be discerned from the combat at such an early stage in the game. Ranged gameplay looks to utilize a soft-lock and manual targeting. There is no specific targeting to the head or leg, but according to the tester there is some discussion on the AoC beta forums about a damage bonus when manual targeting is used. Other random tidbits include the zone sizes being similar to EQ2's larger zones. The tester also claims that the character creation is so unique and versatile he hasn't come across another human character that looked exactly like his own. (I hope this is true.)
It's important to note this particular beta footage excludes high-resolution textures, and the ass-kicking Cheetah 2 engine upgrades. The client was being run and recorded on the following computer specs: C2D E6550, 2GB Ram, and an 8800GT. This is great news, as optimizing continues the performance will improve on lower-end computer builds. You can sign up for the beta over on the official Age of Conan website. Be sure to check out Massively's exclusive look at the Barbarian and Dark Templar classes if you missed out the first time around.
What do you guys think of the video? I want to play the game more than I did before.
[via The AT Wire]
