Take a look at the newest items available in the Station Marketplace!

    Castellum Furniture Set    

    Castellum Vanity Bathtub Castellum Vanity Stool    

    Castellum Vanity Table Castellum Vanity Washstand    

To purchase these items in-game, type /marketplace or click on the Marketplace tab in the EQII menu.

A well worn traveler of the lands known as the Town Crier journeys lands near and far seeking out the latest in EverQuest II news and information. Join us once again as the Crier returns from her latest journeys, filled with news and information from all around those strange lands. One never knows what new secrets her stories will hold!

Fan Site Goodies!

Niami has posted an adornment reference page to help you sort them all out!

Savanja at TTH brings a guide to choosing a deity in EQII. Also, check out TTH’s interview with Dave "Smokejumper" Georgeson at E3.

Stop by EQ2Wire for all the news you may have missed over the week.

Zam continues to give away Prowler mounts! Phase two is underway. Check it out!

Bloggers Anon!

Stargrace alts it up, once again! She also has a video on decorating a home in New Halas and talks about leveling up for Battlegrounds.

Check out Jaye’s entry to the Backstage Blogger Contest!

One Level 90, One to Go (for now)

What Makes a House a Home?

What women who play EQ2 really want

For Your Listening Pleasure!

Zanadi and Jethal are on a break for the summer! Tune into OGR for more information.

And that brings us to the end of another riveting Town Crier! If there’s anything of entertaining or informational note that our intrepid traveler may have missed, or if you simply want to chime in with your two coppers, please drop in and ! Check out the Backstage Blogger Contest!

I’m Amnerys, and I’ll be your EQII Community Manager for the next part of our journey.

Let’s just get this one thing out of the way — It’s pronounced "am-NAIR-iss." The name comes from an opera, which gives you a little peek into my character (both in-game and IRL). I play a dirge in Norrath, but also spent half of my college career studying music. The other half was dedicated to journalism, and a good part of my free time went to this little game called EverQuest. You may have heard of it. /wink

Since I wrote the intro linked above, I’ve worked my way up to a full-fledged Community Manager. (Yay! And, phew!) Other than that, the old introduction still fits pretty well. Over the past two years, my work duties have had me floating between EverQuest, EverQuest II, EverQuest Online Adventures, Vanguard and Star Wars: Galaxies, but the game that I have personally played the longest is EverQuest II. It’s nice to be home.

My mischievous dwarven manager, Brasse, has decreed that I share a photo, so that those of you who might run into me at Fan Faire, Block Party or any other of the events we attend, will know who I am. First, look down. (I’m only 5′ tall, hehe.) And then you might see this face. If you do, you can say "Hi, Amnerys!" or "Hi, Tiffany!"

I’m looking forward to seeing you in Norrath! If you have any questions for me, please feel free to leave them at the forum link below, and I’ll do my best to answer them. Safe journeys!

If you want to show off your EverQuest II-related fan art skills, be sure to first read through the SOE Terms of Service here (for ease, fan art submissions fall under #5, a little over half way down the list) and then submit your own 800×600 pixel copy to SOEFanArt@soe.sony.com! If the art is relevant to EverQuest II and is suitable for all ages, there’s a great chance your art will be added to the art gallery. We’re always taking submissions!

Once upon a time, long ago and far away, you were faced with an important decision … A decision that would forever impact your identity in the world of Norrath… One that would define yourself and your group of companions, setting you apart from the others…

You had to choose a guild name.

Alas, you no longer feel that “Knights in White Satin” truly holds that special meaning that it once did, and you’re kind of regretting the dozen glasses of xegonberry wine you drank at the first guild meeting. They really were quite tasty, but perhaps not the wisest choice…well, it happens.

Fear not, good citizens of Norrath! …Alright. And evil citizens, too. You can now release yourself from the eternal walk of shame of an embarrassing, ill-thought-out, or otherwise no-longer-desired guild tag hovering so delicately over your head.

We are pleased to now offer a Guild Rename Potion, available on the EQII Marketplace, for the price of 5500 Station Cash.

The choosing of a guild name is a very important rite. To help ensure that your new name is considered carefully, we are introducing the potion at the price of 5500 SC. We believe this price is fair for those who do want a name change, but will also serve as a deterrent to those who might want to frivolously rename their guild every time they have a kerfuffle in the lands of Norrath. In addition, we advise foregoing the wine next time, and sticking with blossom tea, or perhaps fayberry fizzlepop for guild meeting refreshments while you pick a new name.

There has always been the option to disband a guild and create a new one with the desired name, but think of all the work and sacrifice that went into Guild XP and levels!

Guild rename potions will only be visible to and usable by Guild Leaders. No sneaking around and changing your guild’s name to “Your Mama Wears Dwarven Underpants,” just before you drop guild and have a good laugh at them.

The goodly helpers who keep an eye on things behind the scenes will also be able to track the name changes that a guild has gone through, a measure taken to be sure that the “Ipwnurfacenoobs” guild can’t harass other citizens, then simply do a name change and disappear off the radar. We’ll know where you’ve been…

So, there you have it! Your chance to redeem yourself (and your reputation as one of the foremost guilds of Norrath) is just a trip-to-the-Marketplace away. That means you, “Omg Hi Kthxbye” guild. You know that was a hasty decision, but it’s ok. We’re here for you.

There are just two weeks left to register for Fan Faire and the number of Gold and Silver passes available is limited!  Platinum passes are sold out.

We have so much in store for you, so don’t miss out!  Mix and mingle ‘til the wee hours with your online pals at our nightly celebrations!  Check out the latest content from your favorite games and chat with the developers in our daily discussion panels!

Oh, and did we mention the giveaways?  Don’t miss out on all of the items we’ve put together for you!

And that’s not all! Fan Faire Gold and Silver pass holders can:

• Have the opportunity to compete for great prizes in various tournaments, live events and contests (also included in day pass registration)
• Attend lots of social activities, including a Kickoff Reception, a Grand Banquet, a Costume Contest and a Pool Party!*
• Hear exciting announcements and play live demos of SOE’s upcoming titles (also included in day pass registration)
• Receive extra cool gifts and in-game items
• Browse cool products and purchase Fan Faire items in our Station Store and Vendor Bazaar! (also included in day pass registration)

Can’t join us for the whole weekend?  Buy a day pass for only $39 (plus any applicable taxes).  You’ll still get a chance to participate in the daytime activities, such as forums, roundtables, live quests, tournaments and more.

We’ll be announcing even more special activities and guests in the coming weeks so stay tuned! 

*Attendees must be 21 years or older with valid identification to attend certain evening events.

Greetings, Norrathians! We are thrilled to make the highly-anticipated announcement of the winners of our Notable Norrathians Forum Challenege!

It was not easy to choose just ten out of the amazing entries we received. The talent and creativty displayed were truly wonderful and there’s a certiain very-jealous dark elf in the office right now!

We’d like to thank everyone who submitted an entry (the dark elf made note that she’s saving a few for her own desktop wallpaper) and we invite everyone who didn’t win this time to resubmit the next time we have a similar challenge.

The following entries will be made into in-game paintings:

You can view all of the Gnoob videos on Facebook. Check back each Friday to see what other "Gnoob" mistakes this little guy makes.

Sunday is Independence Day in the United States. We hope that everyone who is celebrating has a happy and safe holiday, and that you’re able to enjoy the day with your friends and family, either in-game or in person.

We would also like to extend our sincere gratitude to all members of the United States armed forces for keeping us safe. We appreciate all you do.

Please note that the SOE offices will be closed on Monday, July 5th. While we will not be offering phone support on the 5th, our in-game, email, and live chat support will operate as usual… Happy 4th of July!

Official SOE Podcast #89

Join us for Official SOE Podcast #89:  Co-host Christie “Kiara” Renzetti stops in to chat with your host, Aimee “Ashlanne” Rekoske about Star Wars Galaxies’ 7th Anniversary and the recent round of musical chairs in Community Relations.  The ladies also count down the days to Fan Faire and the search for Hubert continues with “Where the in the World is Hubert the Hamster?”  Be sure to listen in!  Jason “Pex” Ryan’s news gives us all of the latest updates on SOE titles! Let us know what you think at podcast@soe.sony.com or you head over to the Station Forums and share your opinion with the Community!

You can download the MP3 file directly or subscribe to the RSS feed by clicking the button listed below. We have both high and low bandwidth versions available. Or if you have iTunes installed, select iTunes Store, type SOE into the search box and click Subscribe! 

High-Bandwidth || Low-Bandwidth ||

Don’t forget you can find us on and !

Double Station Cash this weekend wasn’t enough of a good thing? How about Double XP, too?

This weekend, from 4:00 pm PDT on Friday, July 2nd until 10:00 am PDT on Tuesday, July 6th, we will be running a true Double XP (+100% XP) promotion. And yes, this overlaps the Double Station Cash weekend.

The bonus applies to AA, tradeskill and adventure experience this weekend. Our French, German, Japanese, and Test Servers will also be enjoying the increase in XP gain.

So go get those Station Cash cards for redeeming, and plan to play a ton this weekend! We’ll see you in Norrath!

There’s still a short time to register for Fan Faire 2010! Registration will be closing at 11:59 pm PDT on Friday, July 23. Platinum passes are sold out, but a limited number of Silver and Gold passes are still available.

As always, Fan Faire registrants will receive some special in-game items. Depending on the level of pass you purchase, you’ll get either one cool EQII item, or two cool EQII items. We wanted to give you a sneak peek at the these items, so scroll down to see the goods.

And remember, Silver, Gold and Platinum attendees will get in-game items for every eligible SOE game they have an account for! To see the full list of this year’s items, visit the SOE Fan Faire FAQ page.

Shroud of the Faithful

Silver & Gold Passholders will receive the Shroud of the Faithful. This cloak is made in the style worn by Firiona Vie!

Skyblade Skiff

Platinum Passholders will receive the Shroud of the Faithful as well as the Skyblade Skiff. Built to support the explorers within the Moors of Ykesha, the skiff provides a (mostly) stable way to live above the clouds of Norrath!

Platinum Pass attendees will receive a Skyblade Skiff Deed of Ownership, which will grant the owner the ability to use the Skyblade Skiff as their home. There are no rooms inside the skiff, but owners will be able to decorate the deck of the ship. There’s also no upkeep cost, but in order to use this home, the owner will need to relinquish ownership at a city home, if they have one.

If you missed out on a Platinum Pass, you’ll still be able to upgrade to the Platinum in-game item pack at Fan Faire. (This upgrade doesn’t allow for full Platinum Pass access at Fan Faire, however.) Visit the Station Store booth for more information on this option.

This week, set off on an adventure with a brand new backpack, or stay home and relax with a new bedroom set. The Adventurer’s Backpack and Hua Mein Backpack are available now in the Marketplace, as well as a complete set of Castellum Bedroom Furniture.

Adventurer’s Backpack

The Adventurer’s Backpack is made for traveling. With a robust 44 slots, it’s sure to aid you on any adventure. Decorated with a sleeping bag, rope, chisel, spikes and drinking jug, this pack fits the look of any journeyman’s outfit, whether you prefer a casual vagabond style or a professional on-the-go.

Hua’Mein Backpack

You’ve seen them on the backs of the Hua’Mein, and now you too can own one of the Hua’Mein’s iconic backpacks. Loaded with 44 slots, this bamboo-edged bag will give your style a distinct flair!

Castellum Bedroom Furniture Set

The Castellum bedroom set contains a master bed, two nightstands, a dresser and armoire. The dark wood is beautifully finished with intricate carvings. Cream-colored bedding adds a classy finishing touch to the canopy bed and collection.

To buy these items and more using your in-game Station Cash, type /marketplace in game, or click on the EQII button and select Marketplace from the menu.

Now taking RSVPs!

Are you planning to attend Block Party? Send us your RSVP on Facebook or via email SOE-communityevents@soe.sony.com! Click the image to go straight to our event page.

Say Cheese!

We’ll be uploading our pictures to the Block Party Flickr group, and invite you to join us by submitting your pictures there, too.

Pimp Your PC

That’s it for now. Don’t forget that Block Party is Saturday, July 24th, 2010, from 4:00 pm – 8:00 pm at the SOE Headquarters (8928 Terman Ct, San Diego, CA, 92121.) Stay tuned for more reminders and updates before the day arrives. We’ll see you there!

Shuttle buses are scheduled to travel round-trip to SOE from Comic-Con every 30 minutes from 4:00pm-6:00pm. Look for the SOE signs in front of the Marriott Hotel, located north of the Convention Center (toward convention area A). You can follow us on Twitter @SonyOnline for regular updates on bus arrivals and departures.  Buses will be returning to the Convention Center every 30 minutes until 8:00pm.

Official SOE Podcast #90

Join us for the Official SOE Podcast #90 a.k.a, the “Almost-Fan-Faire Cast.” Co-host Christie “Kiara” Renzetti stops in to chat with your host, Aimee “Ashlanne” Rekoske.  Listen in as they chat about Block Party, Fan Faire, and Gnoob the Gnaked Gnome.  This cast also includes an interview with Dawn Wilson and Lauren Zeiger, a member of SOE’s event staff.  Dawn gives us the low down on this summer’s SOE events.  Jason “Pex” Ryan’s news gives us all of the latest updates on SOE titles! Let us know what you think at podcast@soe.sony.com or you head over to the Station Forums and share your opinion with the Community!

You can download the MP3 file directly or subscribe to the RSS feed by clicking the button listed below. We have both high and low bandwidth versions available. Or if you have iTunes installed select iTunes store, type SOE into the search box and click Subscribe! 

High-Bandwidth || Low-Bandwidth ||

Don’t forget you can find us on and !

You can view all of the Gnoob videos on Facebook. Check back each week to see what other "Gnoob" mistakes this little guy makes.

The phase of the moon is nearly right, and with the blessing of Tunare, Norrathians might soon stumble upon an entrance to a magical place. As they journey through Norrath, adventurers should be on the lookout for enchanted mushroom rings. But act quickly; the rings are active for a very short time each month!

If you’re not familiar with this special, once-monthly event, visit these great guides for more information:

• EQ2 Zam
• EQ2i
• TenTonHammer
• EQ2 Traders Corner
• EQ2 Decorators

The event will begin on July 20th at 12:01am PDT and run until 11:59pm PDT on July 22nd. Don’t miss out!

UPDATE: We apologize for the delayed start to this event. Please enjoy a little extra time in the Moonlight Enchantments event. Instead of ending the magic on July 21st as scheduled, the rings will be active until 11:59 PM on July 22nd.

One of the things you can count on every year for Fan Faire is Calthine’s Fan Faire Tips! Calthine is a Fan Faire veteran after three years and has graciously allowed us to reprint her prep list to share with everyone.

Getting there: If you’re flying, be sure to check the current FAA regulations on what you can and cannot carry. There are, for example, some odd rules about extra laptop batteries. Check your departing airport’s website for how early you need to be there: if you miss the window you might arrive without your luggage. Once in Vegas, plan on a couple of hours to get from the plane to your hotel. I recommend you catch a shuttle to the hotel. It doesn’t matter which one – they all cost about the same, $15 or so. Buy a round trip-ticket, because it’s cheaper that way and all you’ll have to do is call the night before you leave to schedule a pickup.

Lodging: It may be cheaper to stay in a smaller hotel than the one hosting the convention, but if you can afford it stay at Bally’s. Fan Faire goes just about all night and all day, and if you really get into it you won’t have a minute to spare!  It’s also nice when your swag bag has gotten really heavy to have a hotel room five minutes away.

Where’s the Con?: As you are facing the Bally’s registration desk, turn 90 degrees to your right. Walk that way, past the Flamingo Road exit and past the North Tower elevator. Keep going down that hall. It will take you there. There are some great hotel maps on the official Fan Faire forum.

What Happens in Vegas Ends Up on the Internet: There’s a sign outside the Fan Faire area warning that by walking in you consent to having your image used. Hence Ke’la linking that picture of me being thrown in the pool at FF ‘07 over and over again. Although it seems names are rarely attached to Fan Faire pics, if you’re very privacy conscious wear a costume!

The Devs are Nice People: After Fan Faire 2009 a dev asked me to pass this on: “If you see me standing at a booth or demo all by myself, please come talk to me!  I’m probably bored!”  The developers and other SOE staff are great people who love what they do and love to talk about it. Don’t be shy!  On the other hand, they are working, so if they have to run off don’t take it personally.

Sign Up Early: Some activities have limited space.  Sign up early to save yourself a spot! 

Be kind to your feet: You’re going to spend a lot of time walking, not just to and from your room but around the huge Legends Lounge and between conference rooms. You’re also bound to spend a fair bit of time in lines. Bring comfy walking shoes. Unless you’re comfortable in heels or cowboy boots for hours on end, avoid them. Your feet will thank you!

Beware the air: I always feel odd mentioning this, but if your sinuses are sensitive in any way, be prepared. You’re going from where ever you live to a place where outside it’s hot and dry and inside the air is very dry and over-processed. It’s so dry that I always lose my voice by late Saturday. Gum and breath mints can also help counteract the dry air, and keep us all from AOE effects when we’re chatting. A big bottle of plain old nasal saline will save you a lot of grief. While you’re at it, grab some of your favorite cold medicine, because I positively guarantee that someone at Fan Faire will be passing around a cold.

Stay Hydrated: Keeping yourself hydrated will not only keep you going, it’s a great defense against hangovers. I actually bring my own water bottles, because I’m cheap and nothing is free in Vegas if you’re not actively gambling. Fill them half-full at night, pop them into your room freezer and top them off the next morning. Fill them up whenever you hit a rest room or water fountain. 

Feed your body: There is, of course, food available in the hotel. Fan Faire veterans have been compiling a list of eateries from the cheap to the lofty on the Fan Faire forums. But if you want to min/max Fan Faire, be aware there are no meal breaks once things get going. I recommend a hearty breakfast (even for folks like me whose idea of breakfast is a 16 oz latte), because you mightnot stop to eat until dinner, if then. I carry some high-protein snack bars on me (brought from home, of course, ’cause I’m cheap) ever since the year Niami Denmother saved my life with a bag of her famous Trail Mix.

Nothing is Free in Vegas: Everyone talks about the free drinks and free shows, but nothing, nothing is free in Vegas. Every “free” drink requires you to sit and gamble. Every “free” show requires you sit through a timeshare presentation. Locals advise not to be sucked in by free offers. Wait, I think maybe the bathrooms are free. And the over-processed air. 

The Nectar of Life: Coffee, that is. Every time I’ve been to Vegas there’s been no coffee pot in the room. Nothing is free in Vegas: Bally’s wants you to buy room service, rent one of their pots, or get a $6 Starbucks. Me, I pack a little travel coffee maker. Have I mentioned I’m cheap?  It cost me about $15, and easily paid for itself the first trip. It works great to heat water for tea too!

Want to be Wireless?: Most hotels in Vegas don’t offer free Wi-fi, and Bally’s is no exception. High-Speed internet is available in your room at a “nominal fee” for 24 hours. The script the nice young man read me last year specified you need your own laptop with an Ethernet card. Don’t forget the cable!

Tech Toys: Don’t forget your phone chargers, laptop peripherals, mp3 chargers, and all those other miscellaneous wires that are scattered around your desk!  If you leave one behind the only reasonable options will be to buy a replacement or do without. To my embarrassment, after saying that last year I forgot the proprietary cable for my camera and was forced to use crappy cell phone pictures during Fan Faire. At least 15 people attempted to read that card for me, too.

Forget Something? Fortunately there is a Walgreens and CVS on either side of the road right near the Paris, which is connected to Bally’s. The tricky part is getting across the street, because it’s a bit of a walk to the nearest corner. 

6-2-1: This is the third year I’ve recommended the 6-2-1 rule. My friend Rijacki told me at my first Fan Faire that to “function” at a con you need 6, 2, and 1 of three things:

• showers
• hours of sleep
• meals

It works in any combination. The recommended configuration is 6 hours of sleep, 2 meals, and 1 shower. But it’s been done as 2 showers, 6 meals, and 1 hour of sleep. I skipped this one day last year and regretted it badly the next day.

Leaving: If you’re taking a shuttle to the airport, call the night before for a pickup.  If you’re taking a cab, it’s pretty quick to get one at the front door.  Check your room.  Check it again.  And again.  If you leave something there’s a slim chance it’ll be found and you can get it back, but don’t hold your breath as it may be hard to find your cell phone in the giant box of abandoned cell phones at the lost and found.  Plan on being at the Las Vegas airport two and a half hours before your flight departs.

You can find more info from Calthine and the other Zam folks on their SOE Fan Faire wiki page.

For more information from us about Fan Faire, you can check out the official Fan Faire page or any of the following features we’ve posted:

• Save the Date! Fan Faire 2010 Happens August 5-7 at Bally’s Las Vegas!
• Fan Faire Registration Is Now Open!
• Fan Faire News – Last Call For The Platinum Pass
• Registration is closing soon
• Fan Faire News – Hotel Map **The map has been updated, so be sure to check this one out!
• Who’s coming to Fan Faire? **The attendee list has been updated, so be sure to check this one out too!
• Behind the Scenes at the SOE Fan Faire

With so much information being posted in the EQII Official Forums at all times, it can be very easy to miss some real gems and opportunities to share. The Treasure Chest is here to highlight interesting, unusual, and humorous posts.

Community News

Jethal Interviews Antonia Bayle

E3 Interview with Producer Dave Georgeson

Fan Art

We’ve got some very talented artists amongst our ranks. Take a look at some of their work:

Kiara’s Journey to New Halas

Epic EQII Vid

Ekesha’s Tender Moment

There’s no place like home!

The decorators over in the Norrathian Homeshow forum have been busy as usual. We highlight some of the newest posts here, but our decorators are always working so be sure to stop in and check them all out!

Guild Halls:

• LINEAGE Guild Hall – Butcherblock

Player Houses:

• Dezerae’s Magical Manor
• To heck with Halas,! Maj Dul!!
• The Black Rose – Halas
• Home fit for an assassin
• Xerris’s Elemental Domain
• Gigidy’s New Halas House
• Otaku’s Halas Manor
• Cafe Mara

Cool Stuff:

• The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe
• Ressberi’s Resort and Spa
• The Qeynos Harbor Medical Clinic

Did we happen to miss anything of note over this past week of informational or entertaining note? Did you simply want to chat about this recent Treasure Chest? You can do so here in the EQII Official Forums!

Looking for something to do this weekend? Stop by Lucan D’Lere and check out Dance Macabre’s show and carnival!

What: Danse Macabre Sponsered Show: The Wings of Spring
Where: Timorous Heights, Under Laeuge
When: Saturday, June 26th (9pm EDT/8pm CDT/7pm MDT/6pm PDT)

Join Danse Macabre as they kick of their summer solstice celebrations with this revolutionary show!

Staged in the Prince and Pauper theatres, you will not want to miss this!
Poetry written by NFTC’s Vintiari, recited by Joset of Danse Macabre and with music by Laeuge of Danse Macabre.

What: The Solstice Carnival!
Where: Manors of Erollisi, New Halas, under Silvrin
When: Sunday, June 27th! (6pm EDT/5pm CDT/4pm MDT/3pm PDT)

There’ll be a bar, a maze, and fortune telling by Danse Macabre! Also a dunking tank from Anello Esuli and a Floppin’ Flippin’ Frogs by Norrathian Free Trade Company.

Want to know more about Danse Macabre? Visit this link!

In past years, SOE has hosted FanFaire far from its home in sunny San Diego, California, carrying the fun and excitement to Las Vegas, Nevada. I have heard that the SOE crew hangs out with the many fortunate fans and players that sign up for the occasion and celebrate what is considered an unforgettable event. Extravagant costumes and pictures illuminate the walls and floors of such events. Illustrious gaming sessions occur at peak hours, while dancing, feasting, game panels and much, much more occurs over a period of three days and nights. Sounds like fun, eh?
  
But wait, what about those who cannot make it to this party? What about players who cannot attend Fan Faire because they live on the other side of the world? Well, that is a very good question, and I wish I had a great answer for all of you, but sadly, I don’t.  So I have embarked on a mission. A mission that will give you the exclusive details and hidden secrets of what goes on during FanFaire and behind the scenes. Yes, I will go undercover to show you what SOE does during its stay in Vegas. I will make you feel a part of the action during and after Fan Faire. All you have to do is keep an eye out for the postings on Facebook and Twitter. You’ll know what I am talking about. I will take this show to the road and around the globe if I have to! This is the first time I attend an event like this, so it will be fun mingling with the unknown crowd.  

Pssst… psst… you! Yeah you, come here… so I got a hold of the exclusive list of names. Yeah, the big names that will be at Fan Faire, or should I say le crème de la crème. Oh you want to see the list too, eh? Well, I guess I can show you the list, as long as you don’t go telling everybody, or else you’ll blow my cover. Here you go! Oh, wait, give me that back, that is my grocery list… here is the list. Do you recognize any names?

David “Covic“ Brown – EQII
Paul “Frizznik“ Carrico – EQII
Mike “Xelgad“ Ganz – EQII
David “Smokejumper“ Georgeson – EQII
David “Maevianiu“ Kish – EQII
Paul “Cronyn“ Molina – EQII
Brett “Timetravelling“ Scheinert – EQII
Greg “Rothgar“ Spence – EQII
Emily “Domino“ Taylor – EQII
Kyle “Kander“ Vallee – EQII
Rich “Waters“ Waters – EQII
Alexis “Aphox“ Allen – SWG
Tony “Teesquared“ Tyson – SWG
Jeffrey “Jaskell“ Haskell – SWG
Mikkel “Hjal“ Jensen – SWG
Tiffany “tbeans“ Chu – Free Realms
Floyd “floydbishop” Bishop – Free Realms
Chris “Grumblero“ Fritchoff – Free Realms
Eric Hankins – Free Realms
Mitch Evans – Free Realms
Nick “Glip the Gnome“ Parkinson – Free Realms
Adam “Ngreth“ Bell – EQ
Ed “Aristo“ Hardin – EQ
Doug “Elidroth“ Cronkhite – EQ
Alan “Absor“ VanCouvering – EQ
Norm “Normando“ Freeman – EQ
John “Raramor“ Boomershine – EQ
Thom “Phathom“ Terrazas – EQ
Harvey “Rahtiz“ Burgess – EQ
Steve “Sklug“ Klug – EQ
Jenn “Jchan“ Chan – EQ
Ryan Wells – Free Realms
Brody “Brodiety“ Wixted – PoxNora
Blaine “CorpsE“ Smith – PoxNora
Branden “KaizerSozay“ Jordan – The Agency Covert Ops
Derek “Sokolov“ Chin – The Agency Covert Ops
Dan Kinney – Platform
Matt Meyer – Platform
Jennifer “Minerva“ Wilcox – Community
Gordon “Gordo“ Dapkus – Community
Joel “Raijinn“ Sasaki – Community
Benito “Shingo” Martinez – Community
Tony “RadarX“ Jones – Community
Lydia “Zatozia“ Pope – Community
Roger “Draakull “ Pilney – Community
Tiffany “Amnerys “ Spence – Community
Susan “Soffrina” Rummani – Community
Nedda “Shirra” Hosseinpour – Community
Aimee “Ashlanne” Rekoske – Community
Linda “Brasse” Carlson – Community
Aaron “Gnobrin” Bisnett – Community
Christie “Kiara” Renzetti – Community
Robyn “Naylie” Vallee – Community
Jason “Pex” Ryan – Community
Richard “Greeblen” Schmelter – Community

Make your way over to the Fan Faire website and check out the list of the folks that are gamers just like you attending the event!  All you need to do it click on the Attendees link and sign in!

Want to be one of those attendees?  We still have Gold, Silver and Days passes available!

See you in August!

Benito "Shingo" Martinez

We recently ran a forum challenge, encouraging our community’s artists to submit their Notable Norrathians. Their reward for winning is to have their submission immortalized in EQII as a house painting! We’re currently in the judging phase (and should see the results very soon!), but we thought it would be nice to show off all the entries for everyone to appreciate!

Mapped Horizons – Bellacouste of Everfrost

Culling the Infidel – Ainaree of Antonia Bayle

You Ruined Your Own Lands – Alarice of Antonia Bayle

Beloved of Bristlebane – Amemyst of the Bazaar

My Immortal – Adiene of Antonia Bayle

Woman Scorned – Connall of Antonia Bayle

Antonican Battle – Corisu of the Bazaar

Toxxulia Takes Off – Declaen of Crushbone

E’ci – Diamante of Antonia Bayle

Valor and Love – Dylara of Crushbone

Tayil N’Velex: The Betrayer
Elexi of Antonia Bayle

Amree and Saphronia: A Mentoring Session
Enna of Antonia Bayle

Tunare’s First Daughter – Erithe of Antonia Bayle

The Mysterious Drafling – Hortensia of Everfrost

Maiden of Undeath – Imtithal of Nagafen

The Lord and His Minions – Inni of Antonia Bayle

Tunare’s Chosen – Istanna of Guk

Food for Duggin – Jomoma of Befallen

The Shepherd of the Celestial Watch
Kethaerah of Mistmoore

Deceptively Handsome – Kikiriki of Antonia Bayle

Wrath of the Overlord – Lillyaanya of Antonia Bayle

The Enlightened – Nhea of Antonia Bayle

Lord Zephanor’s Greatest Honor – Zephanor of Guk

Confronting the Forgotten One – Sess of Permafrost

Lucan D’Lere Got Pied – Saksisi of Nektulos

The Light of Tunare – Serenitii of Permafrost

The Mistress of Rage – Rainmare of Oasis

Felwithe by Moonlight – Shanyssa of Blackburrow

To Wield Soulfire – Solani of Oasis

Twilight in the Tunarian Throneroom
Starseeker of Crushbone

Turn of the Tide – Torryn of Antonia Bayle

Good for What Ails Ya – Vessence of Mistmoore

The Ascencion of Lanys T’Vyl – Xelexia of Unrest

Lord Mistmore’s Not So Finest Moment – Zatrkorak of Nektulos

I Will Be Back – Ohlon

This week’s Norrathian Homeshow highlights Zapheus’ house at 4 Bayle Court on the Nagafen server. Unfortunately our intrepid gnome photographer was unable to locate the owner of the house for an interview. So everyone’s favourite, fearless, death defying dark elf committed a teensy bit of breaking and entering to tour Zapheus’ house and bring back the goods!

Kiara checked the list she found in her mailbox for the third time. It still said South Qeynos. Clearly, staring at the piece of paper she held wasn’t going to change the location of the house she needed to tour.

Why did it always end up being Qeynos? It was almost as if people delighted in making her try to avoid the rude paladin types on their entirely too bright and shiny horses…

Kiara quickly slammed the door closed behind her. She’d made it in without a single hoofprint marring her armour. Today was going to be a great day for house touring! She’d also managed not to damage the door, too much, when she invited herself in. Always a good sign! Trying to make as little noise as possible, the dark elf explored the entry area. It was very cozy! Nice thick area rugs, a cheerful fireplace, and some lovely paintings on the walls. Once again, Kiara mourned her total lack of decorating ability. Since no one was at home to be annoyed by or stop her from playing the piano, Kiara had a seat and played a simply brilliant round of gnomesticks! Not many people can really appreciate just how difficult a piece that is… Wandering into the dining room, she was presented with this fantastic view. It’s so nice that one can choose one’s dinner fresh out of the water like that. Strangely enough though, the inhabitants of the aquarium didn’t seem nearly as happy to see her as she was to see them. Oh well! Having peeked into all the drawers and handled everything there was to see in the dining room, Kiara made her way down to the cellar and through the rest of the house.

To see the rest of the screenshots, click here!

Please and for more decorating ideas, be sure to check out the Norrathian Homeshow!

Official SOE Podcast #88

Join us for the “Fan Faire Count Down… Cast!”   Official SOE Podcast #88:  Co-host Linda “Brasse” Carlson, stops in to chat with your host, Aimee Rekoske about E3, G.I.R.L, and Legends of Norrath: Doom of the Ancient Ones.  Listen in as they start counting down the days until Fan Faire and Hallie and Emily continue to look into Hubert’s whereabouts.  Aaron Bisnett’s news gives us all of the latest updates on SOE titles! Let us know what you think at podcast@soe.sony.com or you head over to the Station Forums and share your opinion with the Community!

You can download the MP3 file directly or subscribe to the RSS feed by clicking the button listed below. We have both high and low bandwidth versions available. Or if you have iTunes installed select iTunes store, type SOE into the search box and click Subscribe! 

 

High-Bandwidth || Low-Bandwidth ||

Don’t forget you can find us on and !

 

]]> http://www.top1news.com/8674/soe-podcast-88-is-live/feed/ 0 http://www.top1news.com/8656/fan-faire-map/ http://www.top1news.com/8656/fan-faire-map/#comments Sun, 20 Jun 2010 12:01:50 +0000 admin http://www.top1news.com/8656/fan-faire-map/

 

Fan Faire 2010 will be held in the famed Bally’s Las Vegas, from August 5th – 8th. Pre-registration is still open, visit the official Fan Faire website for more information and to register! There are no more platinum passes available, however, you can still get the platinum bundle, which gives you the items attached to the platinum pass!

For nearly 30 years, Bally’s has been the pulsating soul of a neon city that refuses to sleep. With its unwavering service, comprehensive dining and signature style, this jewel of the Strip has attracted high-rollers from around the world. Join us at Fan Faire 2010 and see for yourself why Bally’s embodies the spirit of Las Vegas.

For those attending, here’s a map of the hotel and space where the events will be taking place. Feel free to use these to map out your strategies for maximizing your panel attendance, or print them out so you reduce the risk of getting lost during the three day celebration. Attendees will also get this information in their conference packets. This year we added the Skyview meeting space located on the 26th floor of the North Tower!

We’re also working on an iPhone application including conference schedule, maps, dining information, travel information and more. Check back later for more details on this app as well as the Fan Faire panel and event schedule.

If you have a different handheld device that can read PDF files, you might be interested in saving this meeting rooms & shops map from Bally’s. As Bally’s is connected to the Paris Las Vegas hotel, we thought you might also want a Paris property map. It offers several shops and restaurants that are easy to access from Bally’s.

 

Bally’s Map

Skyview Map

]]> http://www.top1news.com/8656/fan-faire-map/feed/ 0 http://www.top1news.com/8588/treasure-chest-6-17-10/ http://www.top1news.com/8588/treasure-chest-6-17-10/#comments Fri, 18 Jun 2010 04:40:41 +0000 admin http://www.top1news.com/8588/treasure-chest-6-17-10/

With so much information being posted in the EQII Official Forums at all times, it can be very easy to miss some real gems and opportunities to share. The Treasure Chest is here to highlight interesting, unusual, and humorous posts.

Dev Speak:

• Combat Mechanics and Player Progression

Guild Halls:

• Silver Circle – clinic and kitchen

Player Houses:

• Halas By Night
• Darianna’s Halas Manor
• Tink’s Halas Manor

Cool Stuff:

• Consolidated Layout Information
• Elaborate Private Bath
• Sewing Machine
• Halas living room
• Alaska – the last frontier
• Fun with stained glass

Did we happen to miss anything of note over this past week of informational or entertaining note? Did you simply want to chat about this recent Treasure Chest? You can do so here!

]]> http://www.top1news.com/8588/treasure-chest-6-17-10/feed/ 0 http://www.top1news.com/8587/moonlight-enchantments-return-to-norrath/ http://www.top1news.com/8587/moonlight-enchantments-return-to-norrath/#comments Fri, 18 Jun 2010 04:40:34 +0000 admin http://www.top1news.com/8587/moonlight-enchantments-return-to-norrath/

Get ready Norrath! The phase of the moon is just right and the mushroom rings will be active again for a short time.

The event will turn on at 12:01am PST on June 20th and run until 11:59pm PST on June 21st.

Enjoy everyone!

]]> http://www.top1news.com/8587/moonlight-enchantments-return-to-norrath/feed/ 0 http://www.top1news.com/8586/soe-fan-faire-backstage-blogger-contest/ http://www.top1news.com/8586/soe-fan-faire-backstage-blogger-contest/#comments Fri, 18 Jun 2010 04:40:33 +0000 admin http://www.top1news.com/8586/soe-fan-faire-backstage-blogger-contest/

Sony Online Entertainment
Fan Faire – Backstage Blogger Contest

Have you ever wanted to see what Fan Faire is like behind the scenes? Now’s your chance to find out! Sony Online Entertainment (SOE) is looking for guest bloggers to write and record their Fan Faire adventures in Las Vegas! Backstage Bloggers will win prizes, and may be granted special access to several Fan Faire activities including panels, live quests, tournaments, and VIP events!

The Contest:

From Wednesday, June 16, 2010, 12:00:01 a.m. PDT, through Thursday, July 1, 2010, 11:59 p.m. PDT, SOE will host the official SOE Fan Faire – Backstage Blogger Contest, in which bloggers can use video and written submissions to show us how much they like their favorite SOE Games.

At the end of the contest, up to four winners will be selected as Backstage Bloggers! Backstage Bloggers will be awarded one Sony bloggie™ Camera Kit, one Fan Faire Platinum Pass, and special access to post their video and written blogs and on the SOE Station Blog throughout Fan Faire.

Winners will be responsible for their own travel, accommodations and other related expenses. Fan Faire attendance (for all three (3) days) and participation is required for contest eligibility.

Winners will be notified on or around July 16, 2010 and announced during Fan Faire!

Good luck to everyone, and we look forward to seeing you at Fan Faire!

The Selection Process:

A panel of judges will review the submissions and select a winner. The panel of judges will use a 0-100 point scale: 0-20 points for video blog originality, 0-20 points for written blog originality, 0-20 points for video blog creativity, 0-20 points for written blog creativity, 0-10 points for video blog thematic content, and 0-10 points for written blog thematic content consistent with the theme of the SOE Fan Faire Backstage Blogger Contest. In the unlikely event of a tie, the judging panel will break the tie by determining which of the tied entries better represents the theme of the contest.

Up to four (4) eligible contestants receiving the highest number of points from the panel of judges in each category combined will be a Grand Prize winner, subject to verification of eligibility by SOE following the contest period. Up to four (4) eligible entrants receiving the next highest number of points from the panel of judges in each category combined will be a Runner-Up.

How to Enter:

Please carefully read the Official Contest Rules of this contest before submitting an entry.

IMPORTANT: YOU MUST STATE AT THE BEGINNING OF BOTH YOUR VIDEO AND WRITTEN BLOG “THIS IS AN ENTRY TO A SONY ONLINE ENTERTAINMENT SPONSORED CONTEST.” CONTESTANTS WHO DO NOT COMPLY WITH THIS REQUIREMENT WILL BE DISQUALIFIED.

Submissions should be sent in an e-mail to SOEContests@soe.sony.com. Be sure to include all of the following information with your submission:

• Subject of E-mail: SOE Fan Faire – Backstage Blogger Contest
• Real Name:
• Character Name:
• Server Name:
• Station Name: (Username – do not include passwords.)
• Mailing Address: (Street Address, Apt. #, City, Zip Code – do not use P.O. Box.)
• Forum Community Handle: (if applicable)
• E-mail Address:
• Link to Video Blog:
• Video blogs approximate two (2) minutes long.
• Link to Written Blog: (if applicable)
• Written Blog Guidelines:
• Length: Between 250 and 500 words.
• The written blog can be placed directly in the body of the e-mail, attached to the e-mail, or a link can be sent to the article on your blog site.
• Attached written blogs should be in plain text (.txt), a Word document (.doc), or rich text (.rtf). All entries attached should be in Times New Roman text format, font size 12, single spaced.
• Please do not use indents, emoticons, or all caps, and avoid slang terms unless it fits within the theme of your entry.
• Spell out server names, city names, and other terminology as much as possible.
• Please use spell check before submitting the entry. Entries will not be reviewed for typos, but those that require too much editing may be disqualified.

Prizes:

Grand Prize Winners (Up to 4): Subject to eligibility requirements stated in the Official Rules, each Grand Prize winner will receive:
• One (1) bloggie™ Camera Kit, which includes a bloggie™ PM5 MP4 camera, 270-degree swivel lens + 360-degree video accessory + 4GB Memory Stick PRO Duo™ media card (approximate retail value: US$189.99).
• One (1) 2010 Fan Faire Platinum Pass (approximate retail value: US$139.00).

Runner-Up (Up to 4): Subject to eligibility requirements stated in the Official Rules, each Runner-Up winner will receive:

• One (1) $50 Gift Card (approximate retail value: US$50.00).

Contest Rules:

1. Please view the Official Contest Rules below before submitting an entry.
2. You must be 21 years of age or older and a U.S. resident in order to participate.
3. Please remember to abide by Station Terms of Service when participating in this contest or you will be disqualified, and further action may be taken by SOE.

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