Since its announcement and initial video footage this summer, Cryptic Studios has kept most Trekkies and MMO fans in the dark on the specifics of its upcoming title Star trek Online. But the studios' development team recently found some time to field questions submitted by members of the official Star Trek Online Web site .

Because Star Trek Online will focus on battles in space between the Federation and the Klingon, its no wonder the first question was regarding how the ships will act in comparison to a more traditional ground-based MMO. "Federation ship classes are inspired by the television shows. So, for example, you could have a ship like the Enterprise, the Defiant or the Voyager. We call the different classifications of ships Cruisers, Escorts and Science Vessels," said the development team's spokesman. "More details on the exact roles and differences are coming soon, but for now, suffice it to say that the ship roles are a combination of naval combat and traditional MMO gameplay. Klingon ships are different, and reflect their style and culture. And everything will be very customizable and very Star Trek." While space PvP will play a significant role in the game, there will be ground based PvP on planets, too. "There will be open PvP ground locations, and perhaps instanced PvP locations."

Character customization and class training can make or break any MMORPG. With a game based on the Star Trek IP and its vast backstory and catalog of species, ships, and potential skills and abilities, customization and diversification will play a big role in the success of the title. "You will be able to modify and customize the uniform of your characters, but it will always have the look of a uniform. The costume options will reflect popular pieces from the show, as well as new concepts and styles...You can train and advance in any ship class, or even in multiple ship classes."

Because a large portion of Star Trek Online will take place aboard whatever ship you choose to captain, the ability to create and customize bridge officers should prove for even more diversity for your character, their ship and their crew. "Certainly your skills and abilities - and those of your Bridge Officers - will affect your ship in many ways, as will your ship modifications. So expect to see lots of permutations." Both your bridge officer's physical features and skills and abilities will be fully customizable, which could make for a game that has the potential to satisfy even the most hardcore of Star Trek fans.