Blade & Soul NEO Goes Live And Decides To Give The Pre-Registration Gift Package To Anyone Who Wants It

The graphically revamped and monetization changed version of Blade & Soul is now live. Blade & Soul NEO brings fans of the MMORPG a new, prettier experience that isn't just about the visuals. Sure, new lighting, environmental changes, and a new coat of paint are there, but the update to NCSoft's MMORPG holds more than just that.

On the content front, expect the same character creator, story, and many of the same systems, including combat. However, new systems are implemented to improve the player experience in other places. Not the least of these improvements is the ability to use Windwalking as much as you want. No longer tied to a stamina meter and given to players earlier in the game, the Windwalking ability opens up a multitude of traversal options for players as they dash, glide, and almost seemingly fly to their next destination.

As a way to welcome players, NCSoft has decided to give their pre-registration package to anyone that wants to claim it. This package includes the Hongmoon Ascension Costume and 2 Mystery Weapon Boxes to start filling out your wardrobe. Simply log in to your NCSoft account and redeem the code THANKYOU. If you were holding off on purchasing a founder's pack until you saw the game, NCSoft is also extending the purchase date for packs until March 25th.

On the monetization front, I asked quite a few questions during a preview with the team and am happy to see the NEO team seems to be learning lessons from the monetization issues of the original. Hopefully it stays this way. If you remember, the original Blade & Soul's monetization at launch was fine, it just changed for the worse later.

If you are planning to play, remember you have to do so via NCSoft's Purple launcher right now. NEO is not available on other platforms yet. You'll also do well to keep an eye on the known issues the team has faced so far. Check out some gameplay under the launch trailer below while you're downloading.