Fantasy Earth Zero

Fantasy Earth Zero beta beginning March 3rd

Betas, Fantasy, Events, in-game, News items, Free-to-play, Fantasy Earth Zero

It's been a long and winding road getting Fantasy Earth Zero over to western markets, but the wait gets shorter every day. The game was announced not too long ago as being due for our shores, and the release is even closer than we might have guessed. Not only is the beta beginning on March 3rd with the client now available for download, players can look forward to a variety of in-game events to celebrate the participants.

The most obvious benefit is that testers in the open beta will receive a code for a special weapon, done up in gold and silver with turquoise inlays. A contest is also being held for the "best" bug report, with the top prize worth $30 in the unfortunately-named potcash and a special hat. As if that weren't enough, there will be special GM-hosted battle events and question-and-answer sessions with the GMs, offering assistance in learning how to play and how to get the most from the game. Gamepot is throwing quite a bit behind the launch of the game, so if you're looking for a new free-to-play title you may wish to give Fantasy Earth Zero's beta a go.

[ Thanks to Evan for the tip! ]

Fantasy Earth Zero Q&A

by Eliot Lefebvre (2 years ago)

Betas, Fantasy, Game mechanics, New titles, PvP, Free-to-play, Fantasy Earth Zero

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Fantasy Earth Zero is a game with a bit of an odd pedigree, coming to the US years after Square-Enix released it in Japan, going from part of Square's overarching PlayOnline service to a free-to-play game after a weak launch. The announcement only came early this year that it was finally being brought over, and there's unfortunately little information for those of us in the English-speaking world about the game. As a result, a recent interview on Warcry with more details on the game is a welcome dose of solid information, with Gamepot USA's Sheloman Byrd and Nicholas Niers both taking part.

A point hit repeatedly in the interview is that level will not be a primary determinant in the game's PvP -- player skill is promised to have a bigger impact. PvP is also one of the game's primary leveling mechanics, as the conflict between kingdoms includes experience gain. The core of battles between castles involve constructing towers while destroying those of the other side, with a large-scale map and changing objectives as one side loses or obtains new territory. The whole effect sounds interesting, so take a look at the full interview, and keep your eyes peeled for more information on Fantasy Earth Zero's upcoming beta.

Gamepot Partners with Square-Enix for Fantasy Earth Zero

by Eliot Lefebvre (2 years ago)

Betas, Fantasy, New titles, News items, Free-to-play, Fantasy Earth Zero

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Apparently, Square-Enix isn't satisfied with just launching the highly-anticipated Final Fantasy XIV this year. In partnership with Gamepot USA, they're also going to be rolling out Fantasy Earth Zero, a new game for this side of the pond. The game promises PvPvE elements a la Aion, will be free to play, and should be available early this year.

Sound like a remarkably short turnaround? That's because the game isn't actually new, having launched in Japan in 2006. Square-Enix had initially put quite a bit of promotion behind the game, but it very nearly died in its home country soon thereafter. Gamepot saved the game from a swift death, uncoupled it from the rather ill-fated PlayOnline Viewer, and moved to a free-to-play model that's been working out quite well for the game ever since.

Tortured history aside, players can expect Fantasy Earth Zero to deliver a very active PvP experience with large-scale battles, as well as the usual high production values associated with a Square game. Take a look at the official teaser site to see about entering the local beta, and keep an eye open for more details about the game become available in the likely very near future.