Pernica F.A.Q.
Q) Where can I see some screenshots?
A) Click here to visit our graphics page. Some images taken from events can be seen on the main page (or archived plot page) - clicking on many of the images will give you a larger version of the image.
Q) How much will it cost?
A) You will not have to purchase the initial game, it's free! (for those unable or unwilling to download Pernica we will burn a CD and mail it to you for a cost of $35) Currently we are operating on a voluntary contribution system. Eventually subscriptions will be $25 per month.
Q) When will it be available?
A) Pernica is available with limited features now. Pernica has been in public usage since the September 6, 2002. Pernica went live (player characters permanent) in February of 2004.
Q) What hardware requirements will there be?
A) Our target is an Athlon 700 with a GeForce video card, however currently performance is playable with a 400 Mhz CPU and a GeForce video card. Depending on your tolerance you might be willing to play with a slower machine (you can always make the window into the world smaller).
Q) Can my player own land?
A) Yes!
Q) Will the staff (GMs) cooperate with players to help run events that involve the players?
A) You shouldn't have to even ask this question, this is what we are here for. Yes! Yes! Yes! Interaction between the players (especially the player leaders) and the GMs is a primary objective for us. Unlike other games though where the players strive to make events themselves (because the GMs don't) you may find that Pernica involves so much player - GM interaction and dynamic quests that players won't need to invent these themselves but rather can just participate and enjoy (we'd love to hear your ideas though).
Q) Can I design my own house or castle?
A) It's possible, you certainly can work with us to request a custom design but the details have not been worked out and we can't promise anything at this point.
Q) Can players attack other players? Is PvP allowed?
A) Yes, but it is severely restricted. PvP is controlled by factions and if you choose not to join a faction at war with another faction then you can not be attacked by any player. So those who do not want any PvP combat don't have to do anything, they'll be safe. But we've designed a sophisticated multi-faction system that allows those that want to participate in PvP struggles (close to the equivalent of "multi-guild war") to battle each other. Another controlling factor to prevent PvP harrassment is the fact that no player will be god-like to another. It would be risky for a level 200 to attack a newbie, while the level 200 should always win this battle the damage they absorb in defeating the newbie would leave them very vulnerable to others.
Q) Can I group with my more experienced friends? Or will a level difference prevent us from playing together?
A) Yes, you can group with anyone with no penalty. Levels will not prevent you from adventuring together (and gaining experience together). This is a key feature!
Q) If my friends and I form a guild does it make any real difference in gameplay?
A) Absolutely! Guilds will be real in-game entities! You might buy or build a guildhall and be called to defend it (or attack an unfriendly guild's hall)! The actions of your guild will be taken into account by NPCs and will become part of the fabric of society in the game.
Q) Is death permanent?
A) No, but it will be serious and is expected to be rare. Players will not die on a regular basis. There should be no sudden deaths, if you die it will almost always be because you chose to continue fighting in a situation where you clearly should have run away. Because of the slower pace of combat you should have plenty of time to think about your actions.
Q) Is Pernica like EQ™ or DAoC™?
A) No, Pernica has a small community (single server) and the world changes directly in response to player actions. Pernica is available for login 24 hours a day, seven days a week (but you probably won't find anyone else online) and has a first person perspective 3D view but that's about all that is in common with other games. Combat in Pernica is slow paced and not a primary activity for players. You are more likely to find Lilac tending her roses or Rhyslin brewing a new potion than to find someone out bashing on evil foes.
If you have further questions either send e-mail to pernica@mnstarfire.com or join the discussion on our message boards.