Jonric: In what ways will source be related to non-cosmetic differences? For instance, will swords from one empire be more damaging, more durable, lighter, faster or better in other ways than those from another? And will the source affect different players' ability to use it, especially those from other empires?

Peter Tyson: Weapon stats are likely to vary by empire in accordance with each empire's specialty. However, this will not mean that weapons from other empires are never going to be as good. For example, bows from the bird empire might be quick, but bows from the monkey empire might do more damage. Each empire's particular style will be reflected in the stats for their weapons; it will be up to players to decide which suits their style of play best.

As players aren't empire-bound they can use whatever weapon from whatever empire they chose as appropriate to their skill, I expect we'll see a number of players running around with bits and pieces of equipment from all over the place and others who pride themselves on using one style of kit - overall, it's going to be great to see the variety of gear in game.