DDO Update 12 Release Notes Published

The final release notes for Dungeons & Dragons Online Update 12 (Vaults of the Artificers) have been published on the DDO website.  They detail several new features that will be coming, including the Challenge System and a shared platinum bank slot.

The Challenge System

These are repeatable quests that feature multiple objectives and mini-games inside that offer a broad range of choices to players.  Many objectives and mini-games can be played or ignored in order to tailor the rewards given.  Players can also barter rewards for better loot and the server will track high scores so players can attempt to beat their own best efforts.

Scoring in the Challenge System his by point value and star ranking.  Points determine how many rewards you’ll receive when the clock runs out on the timed quests.  Completing objectives within the challenge rewards a star.  Stars are favor points with the House Cannith.

Challenges can be earned through challenge tokens in a free Challenge.  Adventure Pack subscribers and VIPs get access all the time.

Renaming Toons

Rename Tokens can now be purchased from the DDO Store so that characters, pets, etc. can be renamed.  This is something many players have been asking for.  First name, surname, and pet names can all be changed individually.

General Changes

Several general game changes are also being implemented.  The more significant of them are some changes to classes for clarity and game balance.  Artificers have some minor changes, but Monks will see a lot of change.

Most significantly, they will see improved clarification in descriptions of stances and a handful of nerfs to improve the balance.  Mostly in what stances and strikes cost the monk.

Crafting get one major change: items of minimum level 21 or above will no longer be craftable.   Several recipes have had level changes to reflect this.

For the full list of changes and updates, read the Compendium at DDO.com.