Neocron
A post-apocalyptic cyberpunk MMORPG with first-person shooter integration.
Neocron is a 2002 massively multiplayer online role playing game set in a post-apocalyptic cyberpunk world. Developed by Reakktor Media GmbH and published by cdv Software Entertainment, it is regarded as the first cyberpunk-genre MMORPG and incorporates first-person shooter elements. The game is often described as a hybrid of MMORPG and first-person shooter, though some consider it an MMOFPS.
Quick Facts
- Developer
- Reakktor Media GmbH
- Director
- Martin J. Schwiezer
- Publisher
- CDV Software
- Composer
- Max Corbacho
- Steve Roach
- Ian Boddy
- Genre
- MMORPG
- Platforms
- Microsoft Windows
Facts from the source article.
History
Although Neocron is often cited as the first MMOFPS, the Guinness World Record for the first MMOFPS belongs to WWII Online, released in 2001. A sequel, Neocron 2: Beyond Dome of York, was released in 2004 under a new publisher, 10tacle Studios AG, after originally being planned as an expansion pack. Players were encouraged to transfer characters to Neocron 2, and the original Neocron servers were eventually closed while Neocron 2 servers remain active. In 2016, an updated version called Neocron Evolution was released, developed and maintained by the community volunteer team Neocron Support Team, which overhauled many game systems including the weapons system.
Character development
Players choose from four classes: GenTank (genetically engineered super soldiers), Spy (dexterous and intelligent), Psi Monk (psionically focused but physically weak), and Private Eye (a jack of all trades). Skill points earned from experience are assigned to abilities such as Construction, Research, Droning, and Rifles. Any class can use basic forms of these skills, but mastering one requires heavy investment. Jobs, such as hacker, technician, or combat grunt, are not formally imposed but arise from how skill points are distributed.
Storyline
The world of Neocron is a post-apocalyptic 28th century. The apocalypse itself was World War III, which began on February 17, 2143, and ended in under six hours. It was triggered by the mysterious loss of China’s first interstellar colony ship, leading China to strike with stealth nuclear missiles. The American president retaliated with cold fusion long-range missiles. More than three hundred years passed before any real civilization returned. By the mid-26th century, two major cities had emerged, thanks largely to the Ceres Project. This project started at MIT in the early 21st century as an effort to store all human knowledge on holodisks, but was taken over by the U.S. military after the project leader was murdered. Five centuries later, both cities are in decline. Neocron has been weakened by repeated coups and a mass exodus to Irata III, a colony 80 light years away that was founded by the lost Chinese ship. Dome of York is struggling after losing a war against Neocron.
Frequently Asked Questions
What platforms is Neocron available on?
Neocron was released for Microsoft Windows.
Who directed Neocron?
Neocron was directed by Martin J. Schwiezer.
Who composed the music for Neocron?
The music for Neocron was composed by Max Corbacho, Steve Roach and Ian Boddy.
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