Everquest II got off to shaky start when it was released over 2 years ago. Reasons for EQ2’s apparent lack of success (at least compared to World of Warcraft) may be difficult to pinpoint, but since its launch Everquest II has had several dramatic changes, all for the better. A new PvP system along with several new areas to explore have made EQ2 one of the most polished MMOs out there. With the amount of experience in the MMO genre that Sony has, that really shouldn’t come as any surprise. Earlier today, Sony announced Everquest II’s latest expansion, Rise of Kunark, and I had the opportunity to take a look at some of the new content.

Rise of Kunark is the fourth expansion for Everquest II, and the biggest addition this time around is a new playable race, the Sarnak. The Sarnak inhabit a new starting zone called Timorous Deep, and have their own unique history for you to discover as you progress. Originally exiled from their homeland, the Sarnak will need your help to return and battle the evil Iksar. Timorous Deep is only one small zone of a much larger new continent, coincidentally named Kunark. The world has dozens of new NPCs as well as new deities to serve. As with the already present gods in Norrath, players can pledge to these new deities and gain access to their Miracles and Blessings (buffs).

EQ2 will get another level cap increase with Rise of Kunark, this time raising it to level 80. Of course to complement such a level increase, you can expect hundreds of new quests for solo, group, and raid gameplay types with plenty of rewards for all 24 classes. In addition to gear, you’ll also be able to get a new mount – the Kunarkian Rhinoceros. It will be interesting to see how much content there is for players that aren’t interested in rerolling characters, but haven’t hit the existing level cap. Sony is promising plenty of content for 1-20 and of course the endgame, but what about people in the middle? We’ll just have to wait and see.

Everquest II: Rise of Kunark is on track for a November 13, 2007 release for $39.99, with plans for a $59.99 Limited Edition. We haven’t gotten any word yet on what the Limited Edition might contain. It’s worth noting as well that Rise of Kunark will include the base game, as well as all previous expansion packs. All you need to do to get caught up is shell out $39.99 and you’ll have access to all of the content that EQ2 has to offer. I love that Sony is making the game as accessible as possible to newbies, and definitely lessening the dent on their wallets.