gPotato announced yesterday that Allods Online will officially launch in North America on April 26. Following that reveal, Gala Networks Europe just announced that the game will go live in Europe on May 5 accompanied by Volume 4: Astral Odyssey. Why are the launch dates different? European Producer Vince Douvier answers that question in a lengthy statement on the official forum. Here are his main points:

• The game must be polished before release.
• Translating for the English, French and German versions is a time-consuming process.
• Some key and important game mechanics are being modified and adjusted, while others are being completely overhauled.
• The game is being adapted for the European market.

In other news, players who have participated in the beta program and reached level 30 will be rewarded with a Halo buff. Players at level 35 or higher who log in at least once between April 11 and May 11 will also receive an extra shoulder award.