Spiralmon rundown

---Background Story---

"E-Class Battle sprites were originally small, mechanical, AI-driven field companions that aided the Spiral Knights in planetary reconnaissance. That was before the crash landing on Cradle. Sprites collected from the crash within the Clockworks appear to be reacting to the Core's energy signal, changing dramatically based on their environment, improving their capabilities even as they remain loyal to their primary directive to support Knights in exploration and discovery."

---The Three Starter Sprites---

"The first three Battle Sprites represent three different play-styles. While each has at least one skill that serves as direct damage, they each offer different play-style options."

"The smoldering Drakon resembles a dragon and delivers powerful, fiery blasts to your foes. It's ideal for anyone who favors head-on combat."

"The divine Seraphynx resembles an angelic cat-like creature and uses its luminous powers to defend the party from attacks. It's a fine choice for knights who wish to aid their fellow party members."

"The shadowy Maskeraith resembles a masked phantom and uses its toxic powers to debilitate enemies. This devious sprite is a perfect choice for those that like to hide in the shadows or cripple their foes before delivering the final blow."

"We will do individual spotlights on each sprite some time in the future."

---Naming sprites and customization---

"You can name your sprite and customize certain aspects of its appearance. The promotional images are just one example of the final form of the three sprites.}

"No, everyone can name their sprite Sephiroth." (You can name your sprite anything you want, even if another person named their sprite the same.)

"Regarding equipping sprites with items, I can confirm at least one item that we're developing that all sprites can equip: harnesses. A sprite's harness is that metal component you see wrapped around all sprites. A harness determines the damage type output for the sprite's attacks. The default harness always does normal damage, but other harnesses can be acquired to change the attacks to other damage types."

"Not all sprites are capable of all damage types. For example, the Drakon does not have access to a piercing damage harness."

"The Drakon gets Elemental/Shadow, Seraphynx gets Elemental/Piercing and Maskeraith gets Piercing/Shadow." (posted by Shidara, confirmed by Nick)

---Obtaining Sprites---

"Once the Battle Sprites are available, a new series of rank missions will be added for players as soon as they reach Haven. These missions will teach players about Battle Sprites and allow them to try out each of the three starter sprites before ultimately choosing one to keep."

"Of course, these new rank missions will be playable by any player who has already surpassed those early ranks, rewarding you with a Sprite to keep just like new players."

"You will ultimately be able to own and raise more than one sprite, though your first selection is an important one."

---Using Sprites in Combat---

"Sprites use their skills when you want them to, via a key press." (This means they won't automatically attack the enemy)

"Sprites will be equipped similarly to how other equip-able items are implemented. Once you complete the rank missions dedicated to introducing them, you will be able to equip one."

---Sprites and PvP---

"The use of sprites in the Coliseum is still up for debate, though we're only going to include them where it makes sense (not Blast Network)."

---OMG! WHEN CAN I GET ONE OF THESE CUTE SPRITES?!1?!---

Battle sprites are still in development with a planned release date in the first half of the year. Keep an eye on these forums for more info!