.."The one and only place where you can say LOL as much as you want and not get punched in the face for it..."
Control: 10/10
Nexon did a great job of using almost the entire keyboard as controls. It may sound like a little too much, but don't worry, it isn't. MapleStory is designed at the beginning to help beginners to the game with controls and how to use attacks and other moves. Also, they let you change the controls based on our personal needs. The AI of this game is spectacular, too. Well done Nexon.
Graphics: 9/10
The one thing I like about the graphics in MapleStory is that they are colorful and well thought out. The one thing I don't like is that they are pretty low and basic, and not more humane. But ya gotta give it up for the 2D Nexon put in; 2D is classic. They always fit the screen, and are visible by all means.
Sound: 10/10
The sound is clear and always at a good pitch. For all you death metal, jazz, or other listenersof music, MapleStory will have some music for you. It is quite pleasant for the player.
Difficulty: 9.5/10
MapleStory is just right at the beginning of the game for beginners, but as you move on, it gets a little harder, making the difficulty perfect for players who really like mapling. The only problem is, when you grow more levels, at one point it gets a little TOO hard.
Gameplay: 10/10
The gameplay is so great in this game, I'll explain as much as I can in few words. you can choose four types of characters; bowman, warrior, magician, and thief. The become 2nd jobs at lvl 30, 3rd jobs at lvl 70, and 4th jobs at lvl 120 (as of 5/7/2008). You can go on up to 8 different servers and over 150 channels of play. The people online are usually all nice, too. You can get buddies on a friends list, join a guild of people, and make a black (hated of people) list, too! There are also quests for people and guilds, too. Battling is the best part, though. Just fighting different monsters in parties and groups of people or by yourself is so fun. It's great to take your anger out on, and, there's no blood (sorry death metal fans). It's the one and only place where you can say LOL as much as you want and not get punched in the face for it, and who can blame it? Also, you can by clothes and weapns at a local town's shop, along with potions and healing items. There are six main towns; Henesys (archer), Ellinia (magician), Lith Harbor (beginner), Kerning City (thief), Perion (warrior), and Sleepywood (part of the dungeon). Also, you can buy clothes that go over your clothes in the NX Cash Shop. In the Free Markets, you can trade and buy stuff from maplestory users near. And now, on trade shop, you can trade nx cash for things or anyhting with anyone in the world. There is so much to do., and it is so fun!
Fun: 10/10
MapleStory is the greatest MMORPG I've ever played, and probably in the top 5 for the best games of all-time. Great job Wizet and Nexon!
Total Score: 9.75/10
GameSpot Rounded Score: 9.5/20
Grade: A
Two Words: Online Extravaganza!