We at Mabinogi World are greatly keen on translating foreign articles that pertain to Mabinogi. Of course, many of those featured articles consisted of interviews of members of the Korean developing team, but today, this bizzare news finds its origin in Japan.

devCAT senior developer Eun-seok Lee was asked several questions in regards to Mabinogi: Heroes at GStar 2007 conference. He graciously agreed to reply to some, shedding light unto the heavily lauded sequel of Mabinogi. Due to the hasty nature of the event, only a few crucial information could be gathered.

The following list of images for Xbox360 Mabinogi were showcased at during GStar 2007 at Nexon gaming booth. Courtesy of Thisisgame, a web-based game magazine.

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The following list of images for Husky Express were showcased at during GStar 2007 at Nexon gaming booth. Courtesy of Thisisgame, a web-based game magazine.

Click Read more... to view related screenshots.

It has been over 4 years since Mabinogi was first released to public eyes. The ensuing years have witnessed the Nexon franchise evolve in name, gameplay, and, of course, storyline. Mabinogi: Heroes, broadly anticipated and acclaimed even before the revelation of details, was showcased yesterday at GStar 2007 along with few other projects of devCAT Studio.

The sequel, which utilizes the Source engine of Valve Corporation, is very aloof from its predecessor with regards to every flavor and minute dynamics of the game. Thus, it must be stressed that, aside from its setting, Mabinogi: Heroes and Mabinogi are two much distinct games.

Upon first light, Mabinogi: Heroes appears to fully devote to action as opposed to peaceful role-playing. Touted by Nexon spokespersons as an innovation of South Korean game insdustry, it allows players tangible interactions with the environment. For instance, in-game characters may destroy a pillar so that they can add their fragmented remnants to their arsenal, or immobilize large monsters with chains.

Also, it is apparent that developers are seeking to eliminate elements of "hack-and-slash" that are rife among RPG's today. Characters are actually seen drinking a bottle of liquid when commanded to apply potions, forcing a brief moment of delay between battles. This further highlights the undertone of teamwork and the notion that one must make use of allies rather than engaging in combat single-handedly. There are many other features that emphasize this stance.

Admittedly, it is a bold endeavor the developers are taking by jettisoning its former audience in appeal to bloodlust of mature gamers. Nonetheless, the evident action-oriented components of Mabinogi: Heroes combine to something extremely playable.

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Nexon will be holding a press conference on November 8th, 11:30 AM (Korean local time) for new titles including Husky Express, Mabinogi XBOX 360, Mabinogi Heroes (renamed from its tentative name, 'Project Heroes') A gaming booth will allow all participants of Gstar 2007 a first hands-on Mabinogi Heroes gameplay.