Dragonica Online launching this week

THQ*ICE announced that Thursday, October 15th marks the official grand opening for its free-to-play Massively Multiplayer Online (MMO) game, Dragonica Online. As part of the official game launch, THQ*ICE is hosting a series of events and contests for all registered players.

These events include Emporia War Challenge (a guild-versus-guild event with THQ*ICE’s official guild as a target), On Guard for Game Cards (players who log in are entered for a chance to win some a collectible Dragonica Online Game Card; Oct. 15 - 22), Increased Rates (Oct. 15 and October 18 THQ*ICE will be increasing the size and rates of gold drops and increased XP gain), Around the World in 80 Hours (a screenshot contest), new dungeon content and a loot hunt.

You can register to play Dragonica Online at dragonica.thqice.com.

North American Dragonica Online open beta opens August 18

THQ*ICE announced that the official start date for the North American Dragonica Online open beta test will be August 18th starting at approximately 2:00 p.m. PDT. Developed by Barunson Interactive, Dragonica Online merges 3D side-scrolling combat and a hilarious skill system.

Beginning on that day and date those that have signed up for the open beta will be able to experience the game and participate in various events and giveaways. These include a special Odellia Starter Pack, participation in the Dragonica Online Loot Hunt (hunt monsters to receive “Loot Drops” for a chance to win in-game and real world giveaways and other events and giveaways to be announced at a later date.

Dragonica Online makes public debut at Anime Expo

THQ*ICE will make the North American consumer debut of Dragonica Online during the Anime Expo 2009 (July 2 – July 5, 2009 at the Los Angeles Convention Center).

Located in booth #428 in the H Hall, THQ*ICE will let attendees see its free-to-play, massively multiplayer online game for the first time. Fans that visit the Dragonica Online booth will receive a special Activation Key that gets them exclusive access to the game’s Closed Beta Test in advance of its launch this Fall - while supplies last, of course. Throughout the show, THQ*ICE will be hosting a variety of promotions including a raffle for limited-edition Dragonica Online wall scrolls, a special Anime Expo-themed in-game item and more.

Those who can not attend the Anime Expo but want to take part in the closed beta can sign up at dragonica.thqice.com.

Dragonica Online beta sign-ups today

THQ ICE sent out a media advisory this morning announcing that sign-ups for a limited closed beta test of its upcoming MMORPG, Dragonica Online, have begun. A limited amount of activation keys are available and will be issued on a first-come / first-served basis. You can begin the process by visiting dragonica.thqice.com.

Dragonica Online is THQ ICE’s first game. It merges 3D side-scrolling, fast-paced combat and a hilariously devastating skill system - whatever the hell that means. Players join a quest to vanquish the threat of evil, explore a fantastical world, overcome challenges and overcome adventures using a mix of classes, powerful skills, and good old fashioned hard work. More details at the link above.

THQ reveals E3 2009 line-up

THQ revealed its E3 line-up today on this first day of the annual trade show dedicated to all things video games. The company will showcasing a number of original titles, licensed properties and products based on TV and film franchises. Games on display this week Relic’s Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine, Kaos Studios’ Homefront and Rainbow Studios ’ MX vs. ATV Reflex. THQ will also be offering extended hands-on time with Vigil Games’ post-apocalyptic action-adventure title Darksiders and Red Faction: Guerrilla , which was released today.

THQ’s kids and family portfolio will be highlighted by first looks at Marvel Super Hero Squad, Drawn to Life: The Next Chapter and World of Zoo.

THQ will also be presenting WWE SmackDown vs. Raw 2010, the recently released UFC 2009 Undisputed, Cars Race-O-Rama, Dragonica Online, All Star Cheer Squad 2, SpongeBob’s Truth or Square and James Patterson: Women’s Murder Club Games of Passion.

All of these games will be on display in booth #5300, in the West Hall of the Los Angeles Convention Center June 2-4.