actions are performed by using a combination of keyboard shortcuts along with the mouse, and players could customize macro commands for single-click movement, communication, or combat abilities through the game's configuration menu, which could be placed on interface's hotbar for later use. A player may interact with static, non-player characters found in towns or throughout the game who expanded the game's story and could offer quests which could be completed for helpful rewards. In addition to a main character, players were given the option to be joined by a single, computer-controlled partner using the game's Partner System, whose actions were customized by using the appropriate menu. Players could also group with one another to form a party of up to eight individuals, who each shared access to a special chat channel and were able to view each other's current status. With each player able to have their own computer partner, the total group size could reach a maximum of 16 characters. Combat Combat in Grandia Online took place in real-time and retains many similarities to previous games in the series, including the Initiative Point (IP) Gauge, which was used for the game's Ultimate Action Battle System. The gauge, represented as a circle, contained icons representing each character in a player's party, as well as each enemy monster which was currently engaged. The icons moved across the gauge to its end, which allowed the player to accumulate combo points that can be saved to unleash powerful combination attacks along with other party members. Special combat abilities called Just Commands could be learned by continually using an equipped weapon, and occupy their own specific hotbar that can be quickly used during battle. As players defeat enemies, they gain experience points which go towards gaining levels, allowing a character to become stronger and face progressively more difficult opponents. The number of individuals in a player's party, as well as the use of computer partners and high level differences between characters can all adversely affect experience gain. Plot Grandia Online was set in a fantasy world that occupies the same universe as the original Grandia video game, and took place many years beforehand during the fabled "Age of Genesis". All players began their journey as an escapee from a village that has been mysteriously overcome by a dark force, becoming petrified and unlivable. Meeting with a powerful sorceress named Liete, the player learns that