NCsoft's Lineage II: the Chaotic Chronicle is the follow-up to its landmark massively multiplayer endeavor, which continues to flourish in the Korean market after more than seven years. The newer title entered commercial service there in October of 2003, while the North American and European versions launched in April and June of 2004 respectively. In all cases, the setting is a world where three nations co-exist uneasily. The relatively new kingdom of Aden was established after Raoul, its young sovereign, emerged triumphant from a savage civil war. Sharing the same continent, Elmore is a militaristic domain that claims an ancient heritage. Across the ocean to the west, Gracia is beset by turmoil among a number of relatives seeking to occupy the throne. Each of the countries poses a threat to the others, and all are also vulnerable to internal strife.

For their avatars, players may select among five racial alternatives, all of which offer both genders. Humans, Elves, Dark Elves and Orcs must make a choice between the initial fighter and mystic occupations, while no self-respecting Dwarf would practice the arcane arts. In all instances, both genders are available, and further class alternatives open up during the course of advancement. Any path you opt to take will afford the opportunity not merely to look after yourself, but also to acquire the power necessary to become a ruler in your own right. Such personal tales play out against the backdrop of an environment that evolves, primarily through clan-based castle sieges and major updates called chronicles. As part of our continuing coverage, we thought it would be interesting to ask the team members to tell us about some of their individual preferences.