Our Exclusive Preview of "Exodus"

Although classified as a MMORPG, EVE Online has often danced in the fringes of the genre. Developer Crowd Control Productions has chosen to embrace a rich economic framework and loosely restricted PvP over more conventional MMORPG trappings. This approach has garnered the persistent universe many fans, but has left others cold as the depths of space. However, this may all change soon. The epic universe of EVE Online is about to experience a major upheaval with its next expansion. Formerly known by the codename Shiva, the upcoming addition to EVE Online is entitled Exodus, and it represents a huge leap forward in both content and direction.

One of the new features in the Exodus expansion is the introduction of complexes. Alternately known as "dungeons," complexes are progressive Player vs. Environment settings where groups of players must defeat numerous NPC opponents to gain access to more difficult stages. For example, a gang of players may defeat a number of pirates to obtain the key to a dormant jumpgate. Upon activation, the gang jumps to a zone not accessible through conventional means of travel where the players must overcome more challenging opposition. Successful completion of all stages may yield the conquerors rare items, huge monetary rewards, and other desirable loot.