Although its market dominance isn't as assured as it used to be, the original EverQuest is probably the most influential MMORPG in existence. Every MMO that followed it owes it a debt, and even their developers will grudgingly admit this. That said, consider their debt repaid--EverQuest II has assimilated many of refinements made over the years to the formula that it helped established, and despite its association with the granddaddy of MMORPGs, it's very much a modern game. Those who haven't touched an MMO other than the original EQ will find its successor a game that's much more inviting, convenient, and forgiving. Likewise, those who left this one's predecessor for greener pastures might find within this a reason to revisit Norrath. It's still a young game, but given a solid launch, and an altogether slick presentation, getting into it is painless.