Vindictus is a free-to-play fantasy MMORPG featuring fast-paced, hack and slash combat. Developed in Korea by devCAT, the game actually serves as a prequel to the popular MMORPG, Mabinogi. Though taking place in the same world, the events of Vindictus occur 700 years earlier.
Beginning the game, players select one character (from a main cast of six) to play as for the duration of the game: each with their own skills and advantages. Customizations to characters are purely aesthetic as abilities are predetermined. Additional items (apparel or stat modifiers) can be purchased through in-game shops located throughout the world for collected gold or via microtransactions.
Vindictus’ story follows an episodic structure (each episode having its own unique quests and locations) with new episodes being released every six months. Players receive gold, items and additional health points at the end of each episode which serves to greatly benefit players in those to follow.
Though teaming up with other players is certainly not required to complete the game, doing so is encouraged as it makes progress more achievable and the overall play experience more enjoyable. Enemies scale in difficulty as more players are added, though it should be noted that overall, added help increases the odds of completion.
Utilizing Valve’s Source Engine, Vindictus boasts crisp graphics and smooth gameplay. Environments are destructible and can be utilized as player weapons. This advantage adds variety and helps to keep gameplay fresh. Those looking for fast-paced, action-oriented gameplay should look no further.