Cryptic Studios has an MMO out called Start Trek Online. It takes place a few decades after TNG, DS9, and Voyager. Being a Trek fan, I really wanted to try it out. After a month of playing in the STO universe, here’s what I enjoy about the game and things I wished were different.

Character Creation

Even though you can be captain of a Federation or Klingon vessel, you have to at least level up a bit as federation officer before unlocking the Klingon option. For the Federation, there are many options to choose from:

• Andorian
• Bajoran
• Benzite
• Betazoid
• Bolian
• Human
• Saurian
• Trill
• Vulcan

You can also create your own unique alien race and play as a Starfleet officer. Think through when creating your character, different species have different inherent traits. In addition, you have several other traits to add to flesh out your new character.

Once you’ve selected your character, you have 3 options for your specialty: tactical, science, and engineering.  I chose to go with the Science profession and focus on having my character become a researcher.

Leveling isn’t as quick as ensign to commander. Within each rank, you gain skill points that you must allocate as your character develops. I really like this system and I think it feel more appropriate for a Star Trek game.

Space Combat

While I’m not a space combat fan, I do enjoy the thoughtful gameplay with space combat. It’s not a quick shoot him down fight, it takes some planning and, in some cases, teamwork to win battles.

Upgrading your ship is definitely a necessity, as some enemies require pretty savvy maneuvering and powerful weapons.  As you increase in rank, you will have opportunities to get better ship that can handle better equipment.

My advice is to explore the area thoroughly after a battle instead of leaving after your finish your mission. There may be bonus items such as Alien artifacts and

Away Team Missions

I would say that these missions are the opposite of space battles. They tend to be faster paced and I like assembling my away team as a kind of shield for my character. While some missions appear a bit too easy, it’s a good fit for a casual gamer as myself.

I also love that you can upgrade your NPC crew and have them trained by others.  It’s interesting to develop certain skills with my bridge officers.

Verdict

If you’re a Trek fan, this game is something to check out. I like how they tie in The Next Generation, Deep Space 9, and Voyager characters into the storyline.  I even enjoy hearing Leonard Nimoy narrate the space exploration.

I’m hoping some different missions will be added to keep the game from feeling repetitive.  I’m looking to see how this game expands and I’m hoping to see some new playable races become available, like the Romulans. If you’re online, drop me a line. I’m serving on the U.S.S. White Mage!