Digital distribution options announced for Mythic's MMOG

Embracing the ease and accessibility afforded to subscribers by digital distribution options, Mythic Entertainment has announced the online availability of all future Dark Age of Camelot expansion packs.

Beginning this month with the release of Catacombs, an in-game menu option will allow players to download the expansion pack and immediately enjoy the new game experience. Forthcoming expansion Dark Rising can also be pre-ordered using the new option, and a discounted rate will be offered for players combining the two packs.

Catacombs and Dark Rising can be purchased for USD 19.99 each, or USD 29.99 for both. The enhancements to Mythic's acclaimed MMOG will also be available in traditional retail packs, and a bundle containing the original game and all expansions released to date will be available at retail this month, for USD 39.99.

Mark Jacobs, President and CEO of Mythic Entertainment stated: "For four years we have continually improved Dark Age of Camelot with both free and paid content to ensure that the game remains one of the industry leaders. We are excited to offer this new service to our subscribers, providing them with almost immediate access to the latest major expansions for the ever-expanding world of Dark Age of Camelot."

"As always, we will continue to support our community with a mix of free and paid updates available both online and at retail," he added.

Dark Age of Camelot was originally released in 2001, and has since received multiple enhancements, both free and through retail outlets. The new option for direct download is a first for the company, but follows a growing trend in the industry as Massively Multiplayer Online Games and pay-per-play gaming experiences a surge in popularity.

A recent Screen Digest report suggested that the growth of the digital distribution market was set to soar, forecasting a market worth EURO 350 million by 2010. Although the bulk of the growth was attributed to the PC market, the report suggested that the next generation of consoles would also play a major role in the development of online gaming and digital distribution.