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.