Click to enlarge

Brad Cook, Apple's prolific freelance writer, has penned a detailed preview for Guild Software's space combat, online role-playing game title Vendetta Online.

The game, set against the backdrop of a massively multiplayer universe, refreshes the popular RPG-style of gameplay by putting the setting in space. Players can comandeer a number of different characters, from peaceful traders, military pilots, guards for hire, or dastardly pirates, each equipped with their own specific ships and weaponry. The strategy game features a real time flight model and combat system, offering players first person shooter-style player vs. player, and player vs. non-playing character battles. The game also offers co-operative gameplay, a dynamic and open-ended economic system, and an extensive communications system between players.

The title has seen a rocky development cycle during its three-year history. In December 2003, project lead John Bergman posted a direct plea for help as the company's funds had dried up, forcing the developers to possibly close their doors before completing the title. Since then, however, the fledgling development house was able to secure the support of private investors, and signed Montreal-based strategy game specialists Strategy First to publish the title.

The Mac, Linux, and PC versions of the title are scheduled to ship November 1st of this year. Readers interested in the title can head over to Apple's Online Store, where pre-orders for the title are being taken for $29.99 USD.

Apple's Vendetta Online Preview

Guild Software (add to watch list)

Vendetta Online (add to watch list)

Search for other Mac games news stories or browse our Mac Games News Archive.