An epic online adventure a decade in the making, Sony Online Entertainment LLC (SOE) is proud to celebrate the 10-year anniversary of the launch of the groundbreaking 3-D fantasy-themed massively multiplayer online role-playing game (MMORPG), EverQuest.Since its release in 1999, EverQuest (EQ) has proved to be a monumental and inspirational entertainment property, spawning 15 expansion packs and subsequent franchise titles, introducing millions of players to the virtual world of Norrath, and inspiring virtually every other MMORPG made.
EverQuest has earned many awards, including the 1999 GameSpot “Game of the Year” and a 2008 Technology & Engineering Emmy Award. The City of San Diego, where SOE is headquartered, has also recognized March 16, 2009 as the official “Sony Online Entertainment Day” due to its enormous contribution to both the city and the gaming industry.
“This year marks a major milestone for SOE and the entire interactive entertainment industry,” said John Smedley, president of Sony Online Entertainment. “While it was hard work and a dedicated vision that brought EQ to fruition, without our loyal fans, EQ would not be the game that it is today. This year’s Fan Faire will definitely celebrate our players and their integral contribution to the EQ legacy!”
To further commemorate the 10th anniversary of the EverQuest franchise, a number of events, both in-game and “IRL” (in real life), are scheduled throughout the year:
Fan Faire Returns to Las Vegas, June 25 - 28, 2009!
If you have never been to an SOE Fan Faire before, this is the year to make the trek to Bally’s Hotel in Las Vegas! SOE is planning a big birthday bash for the EverQuest 10th anniversary, and players of all SOE games are invited to join the party! Fan Faire is a great place for SOE gamers to mix and mingle with each other, and meet some of the faces behind their favorite SOE games. Here's just a taste of some of the great activities we're planning:
* Special announcements and sneak peaks of upcoming SOE titles at the Third Annual Community Address from SOE President John Smedley
* Autograph signings with members of the original EQ development team and other key contributors
* Lots of in-game tournaments; and live, game-themed competitions and quests
* Developer forums and roundtables
* Cool giveaways and other fun items!
And, that's just the beginning!