PTS - Public Test Server

So I guess I was one of the 3,000 who made it into the Public Test Server. The PTS will be going from:

Start: September 29th 11AM Western (2PM Eastern)
End: October 5th 6PM Western (9PM Eastern)

In that time, they are going to be testing out the new Patch - Episode V: The Reckoning -

Which will include a ton of new Priest stuff, as it is formerly known as "The Priest Patch" as well as alot of rebalancing of skills, and that also includes PVP/Arena.

Since I have the opportunity to participate in this event, then I will be glad to share the details with you all later on. I'll be testing it out today and tonight I'll post a little bit about my experience. From what I've read, you get EXP Books to level faster, items for certain quests like Awakening will be available to purchase from Seria and Quests will give tons greater rewards, including and not limited to Rare/Legendary items. The testers are also granted 50,000 NX Credit for the Public Test Server ONLY! - But that can't be bad at all.

So, for now, I'm off and I'll be testing it out. I'll write about it when I finish up later tonight. Until then, cya all, God bless and be safe! ^_^

~Gabriel

Oooo congrats on that. I gotta get my priest to 18 to wait for the new patch. Can't wait to see
this hizzle go down

There seems to be substantial issues with the PTS, so thus far I have not even been able to log in... Bummer... But I will definately keep trying and update you all on the status.

Unfortunately, I have yet to even enter the PTS. As for now, I can't login from the start-up page. I have sent Nexon my Bug Report and I hope it can be fixed. I want to be able to bring to you guys first-hand experience of all the interesting new stuff going on with Act V, but it's going very slowly and it is a bit frustrating. Nevertheless, I'll keep trying until 10:00 P.M. which is about another hour and 20 minutes or so. After that, it's time for bed, lest I get late for work tomorrow cause of the PTS buggs !

I'll keep trying and if not today, then tomorrow for sure you'll hear about the PTS from me first-hand.

~Gabriel

Thanks for trying . We all appreciate it very much.

At last! I was finally able to get into the Public Test Server! - I have to say first of all, it is very reminiscent of an Alpha Test. The server is so unstable and it drops constantly, if not leaving all players in a lagg limbo for 5-10 minutes at a time. Nevertheless, I got to see some pretty cool things!

First off - The Priest has a really cool new look! I'll be posting some neat pictures of what I have done so far.

When you create a priest, at least in the PTS, you start off with quite a few bonuses. You get Backstep + Cancel Backstep from the get-go. Also you get to begin with Cancel Giant Weapon Launcher to help you do some good combos and beat dungeons easier. A side note: Giant Weapon Launcher has a very good increased range. It can hit enemies from alot better distance than previously.

You also start off with the skill Smasher, which is helpful with groups of enemies, being able to push them aside and make some distance between you and them.

Another few things I noticed were the BGMs. They have changed a few stage BGMs. From what I noticed, Lorianne Forest and your personal area with Seria Kirmin and your Warehouse. They seem a bit milder and more relaxing, but don't give away the feel of the game atmosphere.

Also added is a list of names for all the Dungeon Maps available in all the areas of Arad. For example, when you scroll over the area of Grand Flores, a list of all the available maps for that area are shown, starting from top to bottom, with lowest level map first and highest level map last. Which is quite useful if you are looking for a certain map to do a quest.

You also have a slightly more useful pin-ponting tool on your full map. You will notice a sort of pulsating eminating from your player icon and from certain NPCs during quests, so it's easier to locate yourself and your next target more accurately, instead of running around the map blindly. (Not that I ever do that o_O!... not anymore at least -.-!)

I've also noticed a few changes in the Dungeon Status layout. It seems the ranking system has changed a bit. I wish I took a screen-shot, but I'll do that tomorrow when I can. It has changed into something more of a 'Total Combo' style ranking system, which gives a better overall grade in the end, instead of counting Style/Tech/Hits seperately, it gives it an overall score at the end of the stage, while keeping a 0-100% score during dungeon play, so you can keep an eye on your total combo %.

This is pretty much what I've been able to pick out from my first few minutes of gameplay, seeing as I was being booted constantly and lagged to hell and back -.-; It seems I stayed up a little bit later than anticipated lol but it was worth it.

I'll post up some Screen Shots in a minute so everyone can enjoy the new Priest look

I'll post some more things here tomorrow and hopefully have some cooler Screen Shots for ya then.

God bless guys.

~Gabriel

https://i.servimg.com/u/f20/15/70/51/14/dfoscr11.jpg
https://i.servimg.com/u/f20/15/70/51/14/dfoscr12.jpg
https://i.servimg.com/u/f20/15/70/51/14/dfoscr13.jpg
https://i.servimg.com/u/f20/15/70/51/14/dfoscr14.jpg
https://i.servimg.com/u/f20/15/70/51/14/dfoscr15.jpg
https://i.servimg.com/u/f20/15/70/51/14/dfoscr16.jpg
https://i.servimg.com/u/f20/15/70/51/14/dfoscr17.jpg
https://i.servimg.com/u/f20/15/70/51/14/dfoscr18.jpg

More Screen Shots for you guys later.

Nice!

Aww....no more pedo priest

Whoooooo! So, we got 30 minutes for a PTS Maintenance. I thought I would share some more fun Screenies with you all in the downtime.


https://i.servimg.com/u/f20/15/70/51/14/dfoscr19.jpg
As you can see with this screenshot, DFO now has 2 servers to choose from - Cain and Delezie - Although for the moment, only Cain is active.

https://i.servimg.com/u/f20/15/70/51/14/dfoscr20.jpg
The Channels list also got an upgrade. As you can see, the interface is a bit changed and it has a larger section. Hoping we get alot more area maps and channels to come.

https://i.servimg.com/u/f20/15/70/51/14/dfoscr21.jpg
https://i.servimg.com/u/f20/15/70/51/14/dfoscr22.jpg
https://i.servimg.com/u/f20/15/70/51/14/dfoscr23.jpg
As seen in these Screenies, the number of character slots available to create new characters is raised from 12 to 16. At least in the PTS, but I really hope it's the same for DFO Live, since I want more characters.

https://i.servimg.com/u/f20/15/70/51/14/dfoscr24.jpg
Here is a better look at the Active Quest Locator that they installed. You can see the orange glowing circles point you towards Quests you can complete, weither by an NPC or in a Dungeon. It's cool lookin.

https://i.servimg.com/u/f20/15/70/51/14/dfoscr27.jpg
https://i.servimg.com/u/f20/15/70/51/14/dfoscr25.jpg
https://i.servimg.com/u/f20/15/70/51/14/dfoscr26.jpg
Next is a better look at the scoring/ranking at the end of the stage. I was a bit off when I told about the new system. In fact there still exists the Style/Technique/Hits counters, but the Combo Rate status is a new feature, along with the new look at end stage rankings.

https://i.servimg.com/u/f20/15/70/51/14/dfoscr28.jpg
https://i.servimg.com/u/f20/15/70/51/14/dfoscr29.jpg
https://i.servimg.com/u/f20/15/70/51/14/dfoscr30.jpg
https://i.servimg.com/u/f20/15/70/51/14/dfoscr31.jpg
Now here are some examples of how the character art/animation has changed. Alot of the NPCs have a new look. You decide weither its good or not. Above we see Delilah, Linus, Shiusha and even Seria with a new look! What do you think?

https://i.servimg.com/u/f20/15/70/51/14/dfoscr32.jpg
While on the subject, you'll notice a big change in at least Priest skill animation. In this picture you see the green glow around the Priest, which is 'Slow Heal' skill, but not only that, you see an extra animated story scene by the Lightning Knoll in Thunderland. It's quite fun and interesting. He seems upset! xD

https://i.servimg.com/u/f20/15/70/51/14/dfoscr33.jpg
https://i.servimg.com/u/f20/15/70/51/14/dfoscr34.jpg
Two more interesting features above are Quest related, but make the questing alot easier and faster. The first one shows Epic Quests by LVLs instead of Chapters or w/e it was previously, so you know more or less where you are. The 2nd, while you can't see/notice it, but it is a continuation of one of the General Quests. Example - After completeting quest 'G.S.D.'s Minds Eye -1', you'd have to return to him to get #2, but in this sequence, as soon as you finish Quest #1, it automatically sequences you to quest #2, instead of running all the way back. I think it's very useful.

https://i.servimg.com/u/f20/15/70/51/14/dfoscr35.jpg
https://i.servimg.com/u/f20/15/70/51/14/dfoscr36.jpg
Here we see some new Player-To-Player interface when reviewing another players Gears and Stats. The first picture shows some interesting new/or old features, such as "Profession" and "Noob-O-Meter". Anyone who has played DFO since it first started will remember the "Noob-O-Meter" but back then it didn't even have a use, did it? The 2nd picture just shows a comparison between Avatars & Creatures, which I think isn't new, but it somehow looks different...

Well folks, those are all the screenies I have for you now, but I'll be sure to post more later when I can. With all the bug reporting and switching around, it's not so easy, but I'll try my best. At least the server has stabilized quite a bit and no more random drops, at least not many. Things are going a bit smoother and before you know it, we will have Act V up and running! I can't wait! !

God bless guys!

~Gabriel

OK, limme be the first to say Awesome work. Awesome awesome awesome. The screens and descriptions are both very clear. I almost feel bad that this is posted on our forums as so many DFO players would love these screens/info. To answer your question about the new npc sprites. Delilah i never look at anyway. Suisha and Linus definately look better. Way better. And Seria looks like she really needs to pee. But i love her all the same. Glad they are adding in the jump shot sequences for lesser characters such as the lightning knoll. The art in this game is fantastic.

Back again with some more new screen shots! Here we go!

https://i.servimg.com/u/f20/15/70/51/14/dfoscr37.jpg
https://i.servimg.com/u/f20/15/70/51/14/dfoscr38.jpg
https://i.servimg.com/u/f20/15/70/51/14/dfoscr39.jpg
First we have a look at one of the new Exorcist Skills. This one is called 'Gale Smash'. Far as I know, we don't have this one yet. It's like a Dash and Sweep attack. It rushes in at the enemies, and then swipes at them with the weapon. Pretty useful.

https://i.servimg.com/u/f20/15/70/51/14/dfoscr40.jpg
https://i.servimg.com/u/f20/15/70/51/14/dfoscr41.jpg
https://i.servimg.com/u/f20/15/70/51/14/dfoscr42.jpg
This next Exorcist Skill is called 'Rising Emblem'. It can basically be called a Magic Attack, but it's super useful as an AOE. Plus it helps with Air Combos. You cast the skill and it creates a circle under the enemies. After hitting, it sends them into the air slightly, enough to get in there and start an air juggle. Good stuff.

https://i.servimg.com/u/f20/15/70/51/14/dfoscr43.jpg
https://i.servimg.com/u/f20/15/70/51/14/dfoscr44.jpg
https://i.servimg.com/u/f20/15/70/51/14/dfoscr45.jpg
Here we have a look at the newer Character Creation screen. Each character is divided into a 'Type'. We have 'Easy', 'Normal' and 'Hard'. I would suppose it's based on the type of skills and the way the character is played usually. Slayers and Gunners are 'Easy', where as Priest and Fighter are 'Normal'. Mage being 'Hard' because she ain't the easiest or most fun to level lol. Fun stuff though. It also gives a list of average stats based on skils and magic attacks. Attack/Defense/Speed/Range are these 4 stats.

https://i.servimg.com/u/f20/15/70/51/14/dfoscr46.jpg
https://i.servimg.com/u/f20/15/70/51/14/dfoscr47.jpg
https://i.servimg.com/u/f20/15/70/51/14/dfoscr48.jpg
Here we have some more new Artwork and storyline cut-scenes from the bosses in the dungeons. Up first we have Keraha from Mirkwood Frost. She seems to be admiring herself.... Then we have the elder sister Flaming Binoche from Blazing Grakqrak. She seems upset 'cause I mighta stepped on her foot.. O_o Last but not least, we have everyones favorite cheap shotter, Lakius from Draganoid's Nest at Sky Tower. He doesn't like my smell apparently.. -.-;

That's all for now folks. I'll see what I can do to put more soon.

P.S. - sQrLLz, I think it's only fair that we are all privelaged to share in this experience from the new Priest Patch to come... But I think it's more fun if it's just us in the guild, 'cause then it feels like we are more like a family. Then we get the benefit of sharing these cool things first-hand before most other people. That makes it more interesting, at least I think so. Hehe.

God bless guys!

~Gabriel

Once again, thank you for posting Gabriel. I like the "God Bless" at the end of your posts. It's like the ultimate auto-response in case anyone sneezes while reading what you wrote lol.

You have really outdone yourself with all these screenshots. We are so SO lucky to have someone as hard working and dedicated as you in our guild (and in the PTS ;P). Thank you once more for the insight and scoops you are giving us on the upcoming updates!

P.S. I think the difficulties are bull crap lol. I find my battle mage very easy and a ton of fun to play. I do like the stats, boss pictures & dialogues though. Your description of the bosses made me lol.

P.P.S. I agree with Gab about keeping it in the guild xD. Although sQrLLZ said "I almost feel bad."

Great posts and descriptions, the Exo skills are gonna be Awesome of course cause Exo is the BEST.
The npcs didnt really get a change..looks like they just turned them to the side a little to look a bit more fresher.
LOVE the new active quest stuff. I HATE running between npcs all the time. And the flashing
circles help alot for new players to find their way around.

I said "Almost" lol

I only have few things to say about this.

http://sadpanda.us/images/24171-48CJCMH.jpg

i dont get it...who are they?

omg, i think thats chris hanson from how to catch a predator.

bdogg wrote:

i dont get it...who are they?

I'm saying that the Prist patch and all are

astronomically epic win[i][u]

So the PTS is over... I had alot of fun but to be honest, it was alot of work too. - One of the worst parts was how lonely it was. I didn't have many party members, most people were out doing their own thing. Nevertheless, I did the best I could go report as many bugs as I could and I hope I helped for the upcoming patch.

Guess I'll post my last few Screenies here:

https://i.servimg.com/u/f20/15/70/51/14/dfoscr49.jpg
Master Hunter in Purgatorium talkin' smack... I dunno if we have this or not, but this is another one of those story-line type cut-scenes.

https://i.servimg.com/u/f20/15/70/51/14/dfoscr50.jpg
https://i.servimg.com/u/f20/15/70/51/14/dfoscr51.jpg
Ever wondered what the Gangling Lotus boss from 2nd Spine in Behemoth looked like? Well, there you go! One from the beginning of the fight, and the other from after he gets his butt kicked.

https://i.servimg.com/u/f20/15/70/51/14/dfoscr52.jpg
and last but not least, EPIC fail Skeleton keys! Just more proof that a key is meant to be put in a keyhole and not 2 keys into each other >_>!

Well, I'll be taking a small break of a few days guys. The PTS really took it outta me lol. I'll be back soon and I hope I can join up my Blade Master. My other guild pretty much disappeared... Well, cya for now guys! Everyone have fun with the new upcoming patch!

God bless!

~Gabriel