Those of you who thought the grind in NCsoft's Lineage 2 was getting a little too tedious, then you'll love the new changes brought about in the latest "free to subscriber" update for the game. Gracia - Part 1 introduces a new leveling system which will dramatically speed up character advancement, especially for the newer players.

This is due in part to the new Vitality system, which rewards additional experience for time spent away from the game or in safe zones. This is not unlike the resting bonus offered in Blizzard's own MMO, World of Warcraft. Characters start out with maximum Vitality, giving them a much easier time gathering experience at the start of their day.

NCsoft's North American producer Tim Tan had this to say regarding the new system:

The increase in leveling speed allows players to create new characters and advance nearly twice as fast as before. This will allow players to experience the meat of Lineage II quickly, giving them the ability to visit new and exciting areas and cool high-level content much quicker than before. While this game is still a hardcore game, these changes with Gracia – Part 1 make the game much more accessible to new players. I hope gamers will take another look at what Lineage II has to offer.

Aside from the enhanced leveling system, the new update will also continue the storyline and the changes brought with the earlier expansions. These include new and improved skills, many new items, and improvements to the Cruma Tower and other hunting zones.

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