Champions of Norrath Hands-On

GameInformer has put together a preview of Champions of Norrath, Sony's upcoming PS2 RPG, based upon a press copy they recently received. Here's a snip to get you started:
Overall, Champions Of Norrath: Realms Of Everquest should appeal to both die-hard Everquest fans as well as gamers who are just looking for some good dungeon-crawling, hack n' slash gameplay. The game doesn't get so mired down in Everquest lore that you won't know what's going on, but does feature enough references to the universe that ardent followers of the franchise will take notice. While I did have a few minor gripes with the camera and graphics, I was impressed with the fact that while the combat was simple, I really got into it. Leveling up my character and decking him or her out in my latest weapons and armor finds was engrossing. It was kind of like my own personal virtual dress-up doll, only more deadly and with more muscles.