Ultima Online's Making Waves

EA's Bioware Mythic has big things in store for Ultima Online! The recent Town Hall event was the venue for the new 'High Seas' booster pack. What's a booster pack? It's a little different than the retail expansion packs released over the last dozen years. The developers acknowledge it's unlikely we'll see another boxed UO release anytime soon, but the game universe is being enhanced with a new series of 'booster' updates. The first one significantly revamps the sea faring aspect of the game. All players will benefit from the new boats and boat movement system, and for $15, players on the 'High Seas' will engage in an expansive ship combat system and marine market. The full digital release should be available in the next few months, and players can participate in the open beta now. Details on how to play are available at the UO Herald.

At last, Beta for High Seas is now entering Open Beta - Rogues, sailors, merchants, and all adventurers who have been waiting for days of smoothly sailing Sosarian seas or brandishing scimitars against bandits or pirates will now have their appetites sated!

The answer to the question of the ages will finally be answered: Pirates v. Ninjas … brought to you by Ultima Online.

With the start of Beta we present an interesting challenge - scallywags need not apply! Your first task is to focus on the boss encounter against Scalis’ might. If you’re still up for more death and mayhem visit the island of Corgul the Soulbinder.

Internal testing shows that Scalis may be too powerful; however, I am of the mind that the extremely capable warriors of Britannia should make short work of him …

As we continue internal testing and development, and provide updates on the external test center, we’ll want your input on ship-to-ship combat, fishing, and quests at the sea markets as well.

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When will we see actual tangible merchandise from UO, and will we see a box on store shelves?

It is unlikely you will ever see another box for Ultima Online on Target or Best Buy store shelves. Much of the industry is moving toward digital distribution. However, in terms of merchandise (t-shirts, cloth maps, Mesanna bobblehead dolls); we have taken that recommendation into consideration and trying to come up with a plan that will work for the business and the community. What we found out during the Town Hall is that many players take pride in their knowledge and association with the legacy of Ultima Online. You would the ability to share your dedication in more ways than downloading and paying for virtual items.