It's very rare when a game steps beyond a simple interest into a full blown obsession. ArcheAge has been creeping into my subconscious on more occasions than I care to admit, to the point where it's hard to get anything else done. The funny thing is, I find it difficult to encapsulate the why of my compulsion to eschew the comfort of bed: "just a little more, then I will get some sleep". Oh, it's morning? Excuse me while I close the blinds, they are hurting my bloodshot eyes. Stupid sun.

In my last blog post, I mentioned that ArcheAge heavily encourages cooperative play, and I believe that is its biggest draw. So much of the game is centered on being part of a larger social circle that not doing so is the biggest hindrance you can give yourself. If you want to experience most of the high level content, there WILL be PVP, ganking and griefing. Bonding with other players is essential so you can collaborate with them and strive for endgame goals and be part of something larger than yourself. You can shun PVP if you prefer, merrily plugging away at crafting and farming, but even that is made far better when working with others. You help support their war efforts while they help you raise your professions. It's fun because you watch your group grow together and share in each other's victories and progression.

In the end, I feel that ArcheAge holds my interest by way of its diverse means of achieving success in game. It isn't quite as simple as showing up on a raid night; there are a lot of ways to find group enjoyment through blissful productivity and slowly making headway on seemingly impossible goals in a cooperative and competitive manor. I won't lie, the game can seem like a bit of a grind and the questing isn't anything to talk about, but the fun you make with others more than makes up for this. I'm curious to see how long AA will keep me captivated considering my huge draw to bounce between games...I guess only time will tell.

Hey guys, Bear and I had a few things we had to take care of so there won't be a comic this week. Thank you for checking up on us though! =) Here's something quick to celebrate one of the year's sweetest holidays!! =D Happy Halloween everyone! Be safe Trick-or-Treating!