Independent developer Crytek (Far Cry, Crysis) has announced that its popular CryENGINE 2 middleware has been licensed by Swedish developer MindArk for use in a forthcoming upgrade to MMO Entropia Universe which the two say will create the most realistic looking MMO game ever seen. Officials expect that the transition to a platform built around CryENGINE 2 is expected to be finished by mid-2008, and will be available to all Entropia Universe partners. The virtual world has already proven itself to be a popular destination for players, as MindArk announced in October 2006 that Entropia Universe surpassed 500,000 registered users, which participate in an in-game economy that has both game-based and real-world value attached to virtual items. First launched in 2003, the online game uses a system based on skills and experience which allows for occupational proficiency in areas ranging from event promotions and store ownership to hunting and mining. Players also have the chance to buy and sell property, become financially successful, and even find a mate in their virtual world. Said MindArk CEO Jan Welter Timkrans, “The upgrade of Entropia Universe will be built around the spectacular features supplied by CryENGINE 2, offering a complete and immersive experience to Entropia participants. It will create synergies between the proven and safe Real Cash Economy backbone, the Entropia storyline with colonists fighting to establish a new world, and the very life-like visuals supplied from CryENGINE 2." "When we saw what the engine was capable of, we immediately understood that it would be perfect for Entropia, as both MindArk and Crytek are pioneers in their respective fields," he added.