Ankama is proud to announce the launch of the closed Beta version of Wakfu,its next tactical MMORPG. Scheduled for a Q4 release, the Java sequel to DOFUS is now entering its final development stage.

Improving the turn-based fighting system of DOFUS even further, Wakfu sets a new standard in massively multiplayer online games with its combination of battle tactics and role playing.

Set a thousand years after DOFUS, Wakfu sees the rise of the terrible Ogrest, an Ogre who has become the equal of the gods after gathering the six powerful dragon eggs called Dofus. The land of Amakna has now been flooded by the tears of Ogrest, as he pines for his lost love.

Being an atypical MMO, Wakfu features never seen before elements. The most important feature is clearly the absence of non player characters (NPCs),Wakfu will also establish a sophisticated political system where appointed player-governors will rule the various islands and their peers.

Ecology will also be of utmost importance in the game, and players will have to act in order to keep their world alive and blooming. says Anthony Roux, co-founder and Director of Creation.

This first version of the Beta features five of the twelve character classes. The first stepping stone in a global crossmedia project, Wakfu looks likely to set a new standard for online entertainment.

Closed Beta access keys will be distributed on partner websites where contests will be organized.

Players can already register in order to get newsletters about the evolution of the Beta, and to get a chance to be chosen on  www.wakfu.com


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Wakfu
Wakfu is an innovative massively multiplayer online role-playing game which combines the logic of a tactical video game and the dynamics of real time action. In the same spirit that animates its big brother, DOFUS, Wakfu will transport you to a magical universe full of sparkling humor. This long-awaited game will offer players a unique experience which should stir up the genre.


DOFUS
www.dofus.com
Treading a lush path between video game and animated cartoon, DOFUS brings a whole new dimension to online Massively Multiplayer Online Role-Playing Games.
With its manga-inspired graphics, gripping tactical game play and wild humor, DOFUS has created a unique style of its own for other MMORPGs to follow and currently boasts 7 million players worldwide.


About the ANKAMA Group
Founded by Anthony Roux, Camille Chafer and Emmanuel Darras in Roubaix in 2001,ANKAMA is an independent group which produces digital creations and employs over 250 people. The international success of the group MMORPG DOFUS, with more than 7 million players, enabled ANKAMA to branch out  into several related industries: online games, publishing, animations, web design, press, mobile phone services, video games for next gen consoles.www.ankama-group.com

Press Contact:
Cedric Gerard
International Marketing Manager
cgerard@ankama.com
http://press.ankama.com  All