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My answer to the question "What are your favorite, films, books and games?"

 

So what are these MMORPGs anyway? (Plus Companion Movie Recommendations)

Dark Age of Camelot

In brief: The 3 realms in this post Arthurian land are at a state of unrest. You can live your life in peace and quest for glory within your own realm or go out to the frontiers or battlegrounds (level dependent) for battle.

The latest challenger to the MMORPG crown, this is the game that surprised me the most. While it took me some time to get over the "it's like EQ so I should be hitting my EQ buttons set up" -- I'm really enjoying this game partly because it's a little like EQ but mainly for the differences - particularly in the way it handles PvP (or RvR in this case): there's room for diehard PvPers and those who want to strengthen their realm in more peaceful ways such as tradesmithing. Other nice touches are the quest and task system which pretty much ensure you a good time even if you can't find a group. Travel and general exploration is also nice in game as there are no "zone" lines except to enter major cities and dungeons, and horses help speed your way.
 

Everquest: Trilogy

In brief: Fantasy setting where players set out to kill monsters for treasure and explore the world.

Everquest is the "Grand Daddy" of the present generation MMORPGs. It's been out for over 2 years and has been called "Evercrack" by many of its players -- I know I was heavily addicted. This game really set the standard for all the games to follow, being able to be a character and interacting with others was the strength of the game to me. The expansion releases added new realms to explore. EQ has the best box cover art, by the way (way to go Keith!).

Everquest: Shadows of Luclin

In brief: EQ on the moon with the Kerrans and new character models. EQ's release to catch up with the latest gaming technology that its competitors have taken advantage of.

System requirements have been upped for this game across the board from what I've heard though it seems worth it.

 

EQ Companion Movie Recommendations below
     
Companion Movie Recommendations
These are the films that these games make me think of when I play them.
Dark Age of Camelot
    
Excalibur: If you're an Albionite you MUST see this movie. In fact, you MUST OWN it (really applies to all realms).
The 13th Warrior: This one's for Midgard. It's based on Michael Crichton's Eater's of the Dead.
The Dark Crystal: For Hibernia.
Science Fiction MMOGS
    
Blade Runner: This is another MUST see, MUST OWN. Based on yet another great book: Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep?).
Dune: Anarchy Online's setting seems to be very closely based on the planetary conditions in this movie based on the classic book). Also check out this design inspired by this film.
The Fifth Element: Another Blade Runner-esque vision but with some comedy.

EverQuest

 

 
The Hobbit: This is the shortcut but you really should read the book.
The Lord of the Rings: Watch this after The Hobbit. And of course you'll read the classic Tolkien books.
Willow: Wonder why the Halfings in game get called "Pecks"? Find out here.
What? You want more? Browse through my Favorite/Most Influential Movies, Books & Games at Fricka's Favorites