Funcom unveiled more about their upcoming MMORPG The Secret World during PAX 2009. We can now see the first official screenshots (also on the official website) and know the story behind this horror-themed MMO.

Imagine if every myth, conspiracy theory and urban legend was true. Imagine if your worst nightmare came to life. Imagine a world where vampires hunt for mortal blood in dingy London nightclubs, where werewolves lurk in the sewers beneath Seoul, and where the undead prey on the living in the shadows of New York City. In this world, three secret societies are battling: the Templars, the Illuminati and the Dragon.

The player chooses the society to join and fights his way to the top, earning titles and rewards while travelling through real world locations: Europe, Asia, Africa and America. The Secret World has no classes or levels, featuring a freeform character customization that allows players to create the alter-ego they want to play.

Players can create or join player-made organisations called cabals, with their own headquarters which can be decorated and furnished. Also, combat will be real-time, with movement as key to success, be it in swords or firearms, magic and melee.