EverQuest Next is a massively multiplayer online role-playing game and as such, it will have many basic elements that most MMORPGs have. For example, EQ Next will have a races and classes when players start a new character. EQ Next is also trying something different in MMORPGs, such as a fully destructive environment.
Multi-Class System
Sony Online Entertainment is trying something a little different in regards to the standard classes in MMORPGs. When a new character is created, they will be able to choose from one of eight different classes. Players will not be restricted to playing just that one class, though, as they will be able to switch to another and mix/match abilities. Each of the 40 classes is able to be leveled up individually and abilities can be mixed with other classes' abilities.
Abilities
Every character will have access to a total of eight skills during combat, four from weapons and four from classes. Weapon skills will not be able to be changed, as they are predetermined on the chosen weapon and the class wielding it. However, because of the multi-class system in the game, players will be able to mix and match abilities from all classes they have available.
A Life of Consequence
Every created character is going to be on their own, in terms of story. Each action or choice in the game will be remembered, and these actions and choices will have an impact on your character. This can impact your character's classes, as one action may prevent you from being able to obtain a specific class.
For example, you are walking along and come across goblins attacking a camp of humans. You could help the humans by driving back the goblins, who might reward you with a new class. This will, undoubtedly, make the goblins hate you more. However, you could also help out the goblins and kill every last human in that settlement, but this will likely make humans attack you on sight in other areas.
Environments & Destructibility
The world of EQ Next will be constructed of voxels, making it possible to have the environment be completely destructible. Every piece of the world will be fully destructible, such as destroying a building to gain access to enemies who might be hiding inside. Some of these changes will be permanent, although sometimes the environment will be rebuilt.
The environments in the game extend to beyond just the surface areas, as there will be plenty of subterranean areas in the game, which are just as destructible as any other area. One good example involving this is escaping a monster on the surface by digging a hole and landing underground.
Emergent AI
The AI in EQ Next will be able to adjust to the player both inside and outside of battle. For example, if an enemy notices that another player is healing the one they are attacking, they may go straight towards that player. Another example, outside of combat, is that you encounter a goblin camp on the side of the road.
You eradicate the camp, but instead of the goblins setting up camp in the same spot, they will take their settlement and move to another area. If you go to their new area and do it again, they will take up their camp and move to a different spot.
