Ultimate Naruto Launches As Free-To-Play MMO

You know what's big these days? Naruto. You know what else is big these days? Free-to-play massively multiplayer online roleplaying games. So it stands to reason that more than a few of our readers should be excited about this next bit of news: Ultimate Naruto, the f2p MMORPG themed after the uuber popular manga and anime, has officially launched its open beta.

Published by IceGames Co. Ltd, Ultimate Naruto is kicking off its open beta with a special event geared at bringing in new players and rewarding everyone with some additional goodies.

As for the game itself, here's a rough estimation of what you can expect, coming straight from the horse's mouth. Not that we think IceGames are actually horses. That would just be silly. Everyone knows horses hate MMOs.

“Combining anime-based plotlines, exhilirating combat and a pure Japanese anime style, Ultimate Naruto gives players the chance to slip into the shoes of their favorite characters from the Naruto anime series and form their own path as an ultimate and powerful ninja,” reads a statement announcing the game's open beta launch. “The faithful Naruto RPG offers players an engaging gameplay experience, fan-favorite storylines, cool social options, and even a chance to raise and nurture a powerful tailed beast.”

With the launch of the open beta, players will have access to the entire game, including the Ninja School class system where different types of ninjas can learn their own discipline and become familiar with its distinctive features.

You'll have three schools to choose from, including the Secret Jutsu, Ninjutsu and Taijutsu. Those secretive types are immortal, the ninja folk have a “unique understanding of all forms of ninjutsu,” and the taijutsu crew are super skilled in hand-to-hand combat. In other words, you're basically looking at a fighting game wrapped within an MMO tortilla.

In celebration of the open beta's launch, IceGames is holding a special promotion through Facebook with various milestones established for in-game goodies. For 3,000; 5,0000 and 10,000 “likes,” each level will unlock free boosters of gold and silver for players within the game to enjoy. Just head on over to the game's Facebook page and hit the like button. With more than 2,600 so far, that first reward tier is all but achieved.

And now, here's a look at some more gameplay with some helpful voiceover by Youtube user, TheStormPow. Keep in mind that his comments were based on the MMO back when there was very little information actually available. Everything above, however, is official.