Are you intrigued by secret societies, urban legends, conspiracies and the like? Even if you’re not, the appeal of the upcoming MMO
The Secret World for the PC and 360 is hard to disagree with. Even with the unexceptional name, the game is intriguing by virtue of the fact that it will be set in modern time and real world locations (New York, London, Seoul). Also, have you seen the teaser trailer last April? If not here it is again:
This is Funcom’s third MMO, so hopefully we will be able to see what the practice has done for them and the game. The developers nixed the idea of classes and levels so that players can have more freedom with their characters. They also went against the traditional MMO sci-fi themes and instead went with a real world riddled with conspiracies and monsters.
Although PAX attendees will be receiving more detailed information on the MMO, it was revealed that there will be three secret societies: the Illuminati, the Dragon, and the Templars. These societies are key to the storyline and the conspiracies in which players must pick a side by joining one of the three. Visiting the website will allow you to complete a personality test to gauge where your loyalties might be best suited. As a bonus, completing this test gives you a chance to win beta access to the game in the future, and keeps you updated on coming news.
For now, Funcom has collaborated with various sites to give you exclusive info.
Here is further information on the factions, brought to you by
Gamespot:
The Dragon
The Dragon faction, based in The Secret World's version of Seoul, South Korea, has existed in some form for thousands of years. This faction specializes in indirectly influencing the flow of history by using subtle political suggestions, strategic alliances, and maybe a quiet assassination here and there to turn its enemies against each other and eventually get its way. While members of the Dragon faction don't fear using force, they also don't believe in excessive use of it; they prefer instead to humbly listen to their elders, peers, and the universe. They especially like it when you underestimate them, and those that do underestimate members of this faction generally come to regret doing so sooner or later.
The Illuminati
The Secret World's Illuminati faction is based in New York City and considered to be the "bad boys" of the underworld. The faction's roots date back to the days of ancient Egypt, though today, it's known for fabulously extravagant parties held by its rich-and-famous members, who are celebrities and captains of industry alike. This faction believes that honor is a myth, the dollar is indeed almighty, and survival should be enjoyed only by the fittest. While it takes wealth, power, and ambition just to gain entry to the Illuminati, it also takes complete ruthlessness and a single-minded focus on ransacking every store of wealth on the planet to truly advance oneself here.
The Templars
The Templars, based in The Secret World's version of London, is a zealous faction that has battled evil for centuries and is perhaps the least secret of the secret societies. Its syndicate has combined military might with religious clout and often operated openly since the days of the Babylonian empire. While the so-called "Knights Templar," an offshoot of this faction, has been identified by conspiracy theorists as an influential group, the true Templar faction possesses far more resources and influence across all of Europe, as well as spans parliamentary seats and even members of royal families. Templars believe that right makes might and that liberal applications of both will win the war against darkness.
Most exciting,
CVG brings you the newest trailer: