EverQuest: Gates of Discord announced

Sony Online Entertainment has today announced a new expansion pack for the massively multiplayer online role-playing game EverQuest. Gates of Discord will add a number of features to the original game, including 100 new alternate advancement abilities, 20 new zones to explore, 20 new non-player character (NPC) models, a new playable berserker class, and dozens of new story-driven quests.

The expansion's story revolves around the discovery of a new continent named Taelosia on the far side of Norrath. Players will embark on a quest to unearth long-hidden artifacts of power from temple ruins, secret catacombs, dank sewers, and vast marshlands. Should they fail, Norrath and its inhabitants may fall under the control of the forces of Discord.

"Players will face the greatest threat to Norrath and the chaos of a realm yet undiscovered. Norrathians will need to unite with the Wayfarers Brotherhood to oppose this mighty force," said Michael Lustenberger, director of product marketing for Sony Online Entertainment. "In preparation for one of the most epic adventures yet, the Gates of Discord will offer players alternate advancement abilities, leadership experience, the berserker melee class, and vast new areas and zones to explore."

Gates of Discord is currently scheduled for release in February 2004 and will be available both in stores and via a secure digital download from SOE. The retail version of the game will feature an exclusive in-game magic item and will also ship with an in-box gift.

We'll bring you more information on EverQuest: Gates of Discord as soon as it becomes available. In the meantime, you might be interested to check out the official Gates of Discord Web site launched today.