State of the Game Letter
Aracos79
I posted this in another thread... but I think it's more appropriate here. It's a thought I had about the source of the complaints with the game, and perception of the game itself both by ANet and the players:
I don't know if this is the right thread for this, but I just had an idea about why things are going where they are going. Instead of creating the ideal PvP experience (that they promoted prior to release) ANet has decided to make Guild Wars into "the free WoW". And given the response from many of the "PvE diehards" I think that's exactly what's happened. People have flocked to this game from other MMO's... EQ2, Lineage, WoW, you name it... and have come here for the free experience. Has ANet decided to cater to them instead of the PvP community they originally targetted? I think that's a valid question.
Whatever the case... I just want to see the game succeed. :P
I don't know if this is the right thread for this, but I just had an idea about why things are going where they are going. Instead of creating the ideal PvP experience (that they promoted prior to release) ANet has decided to make Guild Wars into "the free WoW". And given the response from many of the "PvE diehards" I think that's exactly what's happened. People have flocked to this game from other MMO's... EQ2, Lineage, WoW, you name it... and have come here for the free experience. Has ANet decided to cater to them instead of the PvP community they originally targetted? I think that's a valid question.
Whatever the case... I just want to see the game succeed. :P
Drakron
Quote:
Originally Posted by PhineasToke
I am very concerned by the number of players in general (lowered districts), my Guild members, and friends who have left the game permanently. I am also very concerned by how few new players I meet in pre-seared. I keep a pre character just for observing the world, and mostly I see veteran players recasting characters.
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The situation of the rest of the players was no diferent, most were offline for a very long time and I seen about 2-3 people including me that still regulary played.
I suspect that became the norm on most PvE guilds, it also does not help being in a guild only give us a channel and the whole guildhall is useless (only point would be conducting a meeting but we have the Guild channel for that) for such guilds.
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Is it because of replayability |
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grinding |
Doing a mission once ... ok, doing twice ... fine, doing it for the 45th time with a new character is grind.
We dont have ascended players, we have ascended character and as following the storyline is OK for the first time its certainly not for the 3rd time, its something player have shown they avoid ... thats why we have Forge runners since those people do not wish to go over the whole ascention grind again.
Quote:
or some other factor I am unaware of? |
You beat time game ... well there is elite capturing and quests but chances are you beat the quests already and "wait for the right boss to spawn" gets real old really quickly.
So whats next ... nothing, Underworld and Fissure of Woe ends up being too long, too deadly and too nerfed to serve the needs of most players (expecialy the ones in "never gets favor" europe servers) so there is nothing left but farming but since that is a huge grind it just make players frustated and even more bored.
There is no alterantive to farming as gold income, there is no player crafting and the NPC crafters end up being a no choice because we have to farm for the materials, pay a high cost and end up selling at a lost due to the lowest price set being far under craft cost (thats my pet peeve with the whole pricing deal) and the trader buying price many times dont even cover the cost, selling IS a pain in the ass since we have to spam the trade channel and hope someone actualy wants it and its willing to pay the price.
nooby nooby
1.more emotes
2.improve looks of warriors!they look cheezy.
3.i like to know what happen to GWEN
2.improve looks of warriors!they look cheezy.
3.i like to know what happen to GWEN
Gaile Gray
You know, honestly, no one is considered a "minority," vocal or otherwise. We will definitely remain open to input from anyone, no matter his or her playstyle. It's our intention and our commitment to continue to hone Guild Wars to be the game that people want to play. No matter who they are. No matter where they are. No matter how they want to play. Period.
Guild-Hall Messenger
Quote:
Originally Posted by Gaile Gray
You know, honestly, no one is considered a "minority," vocal or otherwise. We will definitely remain open to input from anyone, no matter his or her playstyle. It's our intention and our commitment to continue to hone Guild Wars to be the game that people want to play. No matter who they are. No matter where they are. No matter how they want to play. Period.
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if it hurts PVE ability to play in PvP maps
_____________________
Dac the Hork
Tactical-Dillusions
Quote:
Originally Posted by Gaile Gray
You know, honestly, no one is considered a "minority," vocal or otherwise. We will definitely remain open to input from anyone, no matter his or her playstyle. It's our intention and our commitment to continue to hone Guild Wars to be the game that people want to play. No matter who they are. No matter where they are. No matter how they want to play. Period.
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You do it so much better than me.
Can we have that massive field of tengu braves for us poor farmers? It's easy for you to create, *nudge nudge* lol
Calibretto_9
Already been said to some degree, but balancing issues need to be corrected for PvP. This includes the need for skill changes (Nature's Renewal), armor choices (Relatively no need to run anything but gladiator's armor as a warrior), and lastly and this is completely just my opinion, a need for necromancer refinement.
Currently there are very few reasons to choose a necromancer as a primary pvp character, considering that not enough people are dying to provide ample energy from soul reaping and soul reaping has absolutely no skill lines in it to encourage you to choose necromancer as a primary. Heck, if you want to be a necromancer, just go ele/necro and use their greater energy reserves or mesmer/necro and know that you will always have energy, not wait till someone dies.
**Edit - Spelling error.
Currently there are very few reasons to choose a necromancer as a primary pvp character, considering that not enough people are dying to provide ample energy from soul reaping and soul reaping has absolutely no skill lines in it to encourage you to choose necromancer as a primary. Heck, if you want to be a necromancer, just go ele/necro and use their greater energy reserves or mesmer/necro and know that you will always have energy, not wait till someone dies.
**Edit - Spelling error.
Fenril Atrum
Will there be more hairstyles, flashy armor, pets for the ranger profession, and customization, in general? it's nice to see some variety in the game.
Guild-Hall Messenger
btw gaile
look at the overwhelming majority of players against the increase in skill gain and faction increase..
It is an amazing outcry.
A.Net needs to take notice of the massive "we love grind" movement.
btw gaile show this video at the workplace tomorrow
http://www.gamespot.com/pc/rpg/guild...w_6101982.html
Does Jeff still work at anet?
___________________
Dac The Hork
look at the overwhelming majority of players against the increase in skill gain and faction increase..
It is an amazing outcry.
A.Net needs to take notice of the massive "we love grind" movement.
btw gaile show this video at the workplace tomorrow
http://www.gamespot.com/pc/rpg/guild...w_6101982.html
Does Jeff still work at anet?
___________________
Dac The Hork
telarin
I think it should be made such that the probablility of dropping good or rare items increase when you have more members in your party. this would encourage team play.
Tactical-Dillusions
ArenaNet is a new company and they have made a fantastic...and free online game.
I don't think they anticipated just how successful it would be in such a short space of time. Look at all the people who have flocked from other online games to play Guild Wars.
Anet were caught like a fish out of water because they were underprepared for it's astounding success.
Being a new company, it's not surprising they were a little aprehensive.
What are they doing?
Working like crazy mofo's to kick out all this new stuff that we want and ask for and that takes months. They didn't know that a vast proportion of us would finish the game so quickly and crave more of it.
They realised that they were underprepared and are sweating their asses off to please every single one of us right now.
People wonder why there are no fantastic streaming updates lately...that's because they are working on the waves of ideas that they get flooded with every day. They are a company that has limited staff, budget and time.
Give them credit, a little time and our continued support through these forums and Guild Wars will continue to evolve into everyones dream.
I can bet that the folks behind the pay-per-month MMORPGS will be having sleepless nights over guild wars.
So many people ask them questions, send emails, point out problems, request things etc. Please don't complain when they say "we're working on it"....they don't have time to answer everyones questions.
Despite my 1 rant per month (being a power player too) , Anet continue to have my support.
Keep up the great work.
I don't think they anticipated just how successful it would be in such a short space of time. Look at all the people who have flocked from other online games to play Guild Wars.
Anet were caught like a fish out of water because they were underprepared for it's astounding success.
Being a new company, it's not surprising they were a little aprehensive.
What are they doing?
Working like crazy mofo's to kick out all this new stuff that we want and ask for and that takes months. They didn't know that a vast proportion of us would finish the game so quickly and crave more of it.
They realised that they were underprepared and are sweating their asses off to please every single one of us right now.
People wonder why there are no fantastic streaming updates lately...that's because they are working on the waves of ideas that they get flooded with every day. They are a company that has limited staff, budget and time.
Give them credit, a little time and our continued support through these forums and Guild Wars will continue to evolve into everyones dream.
I can bet that the folks behind the pay-per-month MMORPGS will be having sleepless nights over guild wars.
So many people ask them questions, send emails, point out problems, request things etc. Please don't complain when they say "we're working on it"....they don't have time to answer everyones questions.
Despite my 1 rant per month (being a power player too) , Anet continue to have my support.
Keep up the great work.
Aracos79
Quote:
Originally Posted by telarin
I think it should be made such that the probablility of dropping good or rare items increase when you have more members in your party. this would encourage team play.
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Drakron
And so we have to run afraid of THE EVIL BOTS that simply do nothing, yes they gain gold but I am not grief by a bot.
Drops always suck, drops such even more at the end since here we are with lv 20 character and we see what, groups of 4+ lv22+ enemies that will still only one item ... why you think people make monks builds just to farm?
Because henchman are a buch of thievering AI bots that arena net made to NERF the players, most of the time we get almost nothing on map if we run with a 8 members party, they steal gold and they steal drops.
I rather take the human bots stealing gold with me having more drops that the Arena Net henchman bots stealing gold and I getting crap out of it.
Drops always suck, drops such even more at the end since here we are with lv 20 character and we see what, groups of 4+ lv22+ enemies that will still only one item ... why you think people make monks builds just to farm?
Because henchman are a buch of thievering AI bots that arena net made to NERF the players, most of the time we get almost nothing on map if we run with a 8 members party, they steal gold and they steal drops.
I rather take the human bots stealing gold with me having more drops that the Arena Net henchman bots stealing gold and I getting crap out of it.
FengShuiBundi
Along with this
I would also like to request or rather inquire as to the fate of our beloved little Unnatural Signet. Will we be seeing a revamped version of that soon, something with an AoE effect?
I would also like to request or rather inquire as to the fate of our beloved little Unnatural Signet. Will we be seeing a revamped version of that soon, something with an AoE effect?
Arturo02
Quote:
Originally Posted by Red Sonya
...My really only complaint is the Droknar's runs that just about everyone is doing now (because many have to to be competitive in the lower level arenas.)...
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ReclinerOfRage
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We believe Observer Mode, along with far more detailed statistics for each battle, will enable a greater number of players to enjoy Guild Wars at higher level of play. And that means more fun for everyone. |
Sorrows Furnace - Whatever. Given your stance on farming I somehow doubt your claim of "accelerated sources of XP and rare items". It'll probably be one of those play through once dealies, and if someone manages to get a good, constant source of rares out of it, it'll be nerfed. You know I'm right.
As for it being free content, color me unenthused. How come we're still playing with the same PVP maps we've had since E3E?
Quote:
We have been making significant strides in gathering and tracking data about botters. Our belief is that the better we are at combating bots, the more we are able to protect the economy for everyone. As we succeed, you can expect significant changes to the availability of high-quality loot for normal players. |
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In coming updates, you should expect a significant increase in the rate of item unlocking and skill acquisition through both PvE and PvP. In other words, you will be able to get Faction, XP and rare items more quickly. |
I know better than to let Arenanet get my hopes up anymore.. there's been too much letdown. My prediction: Faction gain will be increased plus 10 or something equally retarted, rather than 30x the rate of what it is now.
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With this in mind, we have been testing a variety of playbalance adjustments internally for some weeks now. |
SOT
Quote:
Originally Posted by Drakron
Well this is in a nutshell the state of the game for me.
Stop playing over a week ago because its boring. |
Red Sonya
The game is great, keep the nerfs coming.
Drakron
I stop playing because of the lag issues and never feel to go back again.
And this is a public forum, I even own and have installed Guild Wars ... I was not aware that I had to play the game x time in order to retain posting abilities on this forum.
And its quite fitting I post that on a "state of the game" since it shows some people quit playing for the time being for some reasons, beats listing to the small hardcore player base that is unlikely to sustain the game in relation to sales, all games have one and Guild Wars is no diferent.
And this is a public forum, I even own and have installed Guild Wars ... I was not aware that I had to play the game x time in order to retain posting abilities on this forum.
And its quite fitting I post that on a "state of the game" since it shows some people quit playing for the time being for some reasons, beats listing to the small hardcore player base that is unlikely to sustain the game in relation to sales, all games have one and Guild Wars is no diferent.
ExplosiveBadger
Better drops. You barely get anything these days. Its terrible, really.
Lag issues are ridiculous due to the fact of the game being streamed. I rather have everything being downloaded to boot. I know this won't happen but i'm getting it across that you guys put 256mb falling under requirements and us 256ers who bought the game thinking it'd run halfway decent got crap. I'm upgrading soon but not soon enough.
Also more races .
I'm recomending all these things I know won't happen. All my ideas are far-fetched.
Thanks.
Lag issues are ridiculous due to the fact of the game being streamed. I rather have everything being downloaded to boot. I know this won't happen but i'm getting it across that you guys put 256mb falling under requirements and us 256ers who bought the game thinking it'd run halfway decent got crap. I'm upgrading soon but not soon enough.
Also more races .
I'm recomending all these things I know won't happen. All my ideas are far-fetched.
Thanks.
SOT
Quote:
Originally Posted by Drakron
I stop playing because of the lag issues and never feel to go back again.
And this is a public forum, I even own and have installed Guild Wars ... I was not aware that I had to play the game x time in order to retain posting abilities on this forum. And its quite fitting I post that on a "state of the game" since it shows some people quit playing for the time being for some reasons, beats listing to the small hardcore player base that is unlikely to sustain the game in relation to sales, all games have one and Guild Wars is no diferent. |
To the wrong argument.
Lord Malikai
My only complaint is the rate of drops. Good drops. I mean, you get all the way to the end of the game and you're still dealing with sub par drops from monsters that are the elite of the elite ? Very rarely do you get a good gold drop from the last missions, if any at all. I'm an RPG fanatic, there has always been that feeling of "!! YEA !!" when I get something cool, I just don't get that anymore playing GW. I refuse to go do mindless farming for hours and hours to get something good which should be readily available from those high level nasty monsters in those areas.
Ok, so what, it may flood the market with high end weapons and items. It may increase the farmers. But at the same time, prices will drop and the "demand" for such weapons and items will drop because the normal Joe can go get one himself. You won't need to go to LA for hours and try to buy a weapon for 1 million gold, you won't have to go into X zone and farm for Y hours to get something decent. You can simply play the game to the end and find something worth using.
Ok, so what, it may flood the market with high end weapons and items. It may increase the farmers. But at the same time, prices will drop and the "demand" for such weapons and items will drop because the normal Joe can go get one himself. You won't need to go to LA for hours and try to buy a weapon for 1 million gold, you won't have to go into X zone and farm for Y hours to get something decent. You can simply play the game to the end and find something worth using.
DrSLUGFly
I stopped playing because critical viral infection completely cut off my internet connection.. Don't suppose you could include a Ward Against Viruses skill
Seriously though, I don't have anything valuable to contribute at the moment, due to my connection issues I'm now paying for my time by the hour... when I have more time I'll read the thread thoroughly and think about my opinions on the state of the game. For now, I just want to say good job so far, I look forward to the new zones and the expansion
Seriously though, I don't have anything valuable to contribute at the moment, due to my connection issues I'm now paying for my time by the hour... when I have more time I'll read the thread thoroughly and think about my opinions on the state of the game. For now, I just want to say good job so far, I look forward to the new zones and the expansion
Rieselle
First of all, I'd just like to mention that, from a technology perspective, GW is an amazing success. Recently I've played (and abandoned) both EQ2 and WoW, but I've still browse their forums and talk to people playing on WoW now and then. The amount of server problems, bugs, content bugs, "mysterious 24 hour weekly maintenance", gross imbalances, missing graphics on things, etc, that those 2 games have had even up to the present, really shows me the GW is one of the better online RPGs to come out recently on PCs.
However, I still dont think it quite escapes many of the problems dogging the entire genre, and maybe PC games in general.
I've mentioned most of my ideas elsewhere, but here's a more of a "state of the game" sort of big-picture, philosophical view.
One thing that I personally miss very much: Visual Joy! Fun! Kickass crazy coolness!
There isnt enough "visual reward" for doing things in this game. Sure, it's a heck of a lot better than WoW ("Omg! I just the brand new Fireball 5 spell! Now I can see bigger numbers!"), but it's still pretty sparse. More animations and better, more stylish use of spell effects. Currently, very good examples existing in the game:
Knockdown+Aftershock, the knockdown followed by the impact effect, very cool, very fun to do. We need more of these melee "combo" type situations where skills naturally flow into each other, with a rhythm, and an impressive climax. Even better if there is some timing or skill involved in pulling the whole thing off.
Firestorm, and phoenix, the unique charge-up animation and sound for these spells make them fun to use. Although the actual impact graphics are a bit of a let down. In contrast, Meteor Shower and Meteor are pretty boring to watch. Maelstrom is also pretty nice, but its persistent effect is incredibly pissweak.
Very glaring deficiencies: Mesmer spells. Take Shatter Enchantment, it's the perfect chance to spawn some purple translucent triangles over the target, and then "shatter" them, spraying them everywhere with a dramatic glass shatter sound. Instead we get a purple circle that makes some synth noise and fades away. Priest spells too. Heck, necro spells other than Death spells.
Obsidian Flame: For such a powerful spell, the flame is so small that it often gets completely obscured by the enemy model, and cant be seen. Also it's very dark and hard to see. You could easily make the initial flare-up much brighter, larger and taller, without using any more particles or resources. Or heck, make it a purple version of the "on fire" graphic effect.
Eruption is almost invisible, at least give it the "dustcloud" effect as Dust Trap.
Why isnt "final thrust"... a thrust?!?! Especially since there is a "thrust" animation present in the game - you can see it on short swords and axes.
Even better to have more combat animations - knockaway, knocking up, Blocking visually with the shield, evading visually with a sidestep.
Anyway, I'd be happy to go on and on in a Sanitarium post if anyone is interested in sharing ideas. :P
All I can say is, take a look at some of the more stylish console/pc games and try to recreate some of the "feel" and the "impact" and the "style" present in those games. Devil May Cry, Soul Calibur, Phantasy Star Online, even Command and Conquer: Generals (not that good an RTS, but very fun to play and watch!). Or even Total Annihilation - an old game, but its use of physics combined with lighting for "impact" makes it spectacular to this very day. (Something that Starcraft, for all its "balanced" goodness, never had a hope of matching.).
Think of the old sidescrolling beat-em ups and fighting games. You'd fight and kill things over and over, day in day out, but you didn't get bored - why? Because you could try and do difficult things, try different styles of things, try to pull off fancy and flashy moves, and it'd all be visually rewarding.
For a game with as much combat as GW, it would be a shame for it not to have those sort of elements. The multiplayer and rpg skill-choosing aspects should give even more opportunities for this sort of gameplay. We need more skills that lead into each other in a multiplayer sense. We should reward sequences of varying skills, rather than repetition of identical skills (air spike?).
That is all.
However, I still dont think it quite escapes many of the problems dogging the entire genre, and maybe PC games in general.
I've mentioned most of my ideas elsewhere, but here's a more of a "state of the game" sort of big-picture, philosophical view.
One thing that I personally miss very much: Visual Joy! Fun! Kickass crazy coolness!
There isnt enough "visual reward" for doing things in this game. Sure, it's a heck of a lot better than WoW ("Omg! I just the brand new Fireball 5 spell! Now I can see bigger numbers!"), but it's still pretty sparse. More animations and better, more stylish use of spell effects. Currently, very good examples existing in the game:
Knockdown+Aftershock, the knockdown followed by the impact effect, very cool, very fun to do. We need more of these melee "combo" type situations where skills naturally flow into each other, with a rhythm, and an impressive climax. Even better if there is some timing or skill involved in pulling the whole thing off.
Firestorm, and phoenix, the unique charge-up animation and sound for these spells make them fun to use. Although the actual impact graphics are a bit of a let down. In contrast, Meteor Shower and Meteor are pretty boring to watch. Maelstrom is also pretty nice, but its persistent effect is incredibly pissweak.
Very glaring deficiencies: Mesmer spells. Take Shatter Enchantment, it's the perfect chance to spawn some purple translucent triangles over the target, and then "shatter" them, spraying them everywhere with a dramatic glass shatter sound. Instead we get a purple circle that makes some synth noise and fades away. Priest spells too. Heck, necro spells other than Death spells.
Obsidian Flame: For such a powerful spell, the flame is so small that it often gets completely obscured by the enemy model, and cant be seen. Also it's very dark and hard to see. You could easily make the initial flare-up much brighter, larger and taller, without using any more particles or resources. Or heck, make it a purple version of the "on fire" graphic effect.
Eruption is almost invisible, at least give it the "dustcloud" effect as Dust Trap.
Why isnt "final thrust"... a thrust?!?! Especially since there is a "thrust" animation present in the game - you can see it on short swords and axes.
Even better to have more combat animations - knockaway, knocking up, Blocking visually with the shield, evading visually with a sidestep.
Anyway, I'd be happy to go on and on in a Sanitarium post if anyone is interested in sharing ideas. :P
All I can say is, take a look at some of the more stylish console/pc games and try to recreate some of the "feel" and the "impact" and the "style" present in those games. Devil May Cry, Soul Calibur, Phantasy Star Online, even Command and Conquer: Generals (not that good an RTS, but very fun to play and watch!). Or even Total Annihilation - an old game, but its use of physics combined with lighting for "impact" makes it spectacular to this very day. (Something that Starcraft, for all its "balanced" goodness, never had a hope of matching.).
Think of the old sidescrolling beat-em ups and fighting games. You'd fight and kill things over and over, day in day out, but you didn't get bored - why? Because you could try and do difficult things, try different styles of things, try to pull off fancy and flashy moves, and it'd all be visually rewarding.
For a game with as much combat as GW, it would be a shame for it not to have those sort of elements. The multiplayer and rpg skill-choosing aspects should give even more opportunities for this sort of gameplay. We need more skills that lead into each other in a multiplayer sense. We should reward sequences of varying skills, rather than repetition of identical skills (air spike?).
That is all.
Asplode
Okay, first a short rebuttal.
I think the eagerness for an observer mode really overlooks its possible downsides.
What happens if a guild is working on a build and doesn't want to leak out its most paramount features right away. How do you test it if you know you have lurkers about?
The next thing that people appear to want are more Guild Hall features and I can't agree more. There are innumerable occasions where my guildies and I have wanted to test a certain skill combo, or measure/optimize a spell's impact in a controlled environment, but honestly lack the resources to set something up with accomodating features.
Some kind of, I don't know, guild arena where members can readily enter and exit combat, spawn and calibrate dummies with certain enchantments or whatnot on them...Guild Lab? *shrug*
Also, I'd really like to see some kind of guild vault where you can discard some runes, or newbie-level items for others to use would be useful, especially for larger guilds where direct transaction isn't always convenient.
I really want to touch on my biggest concerns without rambling, so on we go without segue: Disconnections. It happens, stuff happens to your computer and connection, it's not always your fault, but you're always left behind when you log back on. If GW could implement some way to reinstate a dropped player from, say, a HoH hold, that would be awesome. Let's say the player logs back on after dropping from a pvp game, should they get a chance to get back on the boat the next round? Of course you'd close all means of exploitation, force the character to maintain the same character, skillbar, attributes, items, refund points, et cetera.
As for my final concern and most controversial, game balance. Just one thing, really. Is it possible to maintain balance while somewhat making the guild lord less easy to "gank"?
Well those are my more important and pressing concerns, in a nutshell. There's not much more to desire, but if you think about it what keeps people playing a game is change. Stir things up, play with balance, force active players to adapt, or fail.
I think the eagerness for an observer mode really overlooks its possible downsides.
What happens if a guild is working on a build and doesn't want to leak out its most paramount features right away. How do you test it if you know you have lurkers about?
The next thing that people appear to want are more Guild Hall features and I can't agree more. There are innumerable occasions where my guildies and I have wanted to test a certain skill combo, or measure/optimize a spell's impact in a controlled environment, but honestly lack the resources to set something up with accomodating features.
Some kind of, I don't know, guild arena where members can readily enter and exit combat, spawn and calibrate dummies with certain enchantments or whatnot on them...Guild Lab? *shrug*
Also, I'd really like to see some kind of guild vault where you can discard some runes, or newbie-level items for others to use would be useful, especially for larger guilds where direct transaction isn't always convenient.
I really want to touch on my biggest concerns without rambling, so on we go without segue: Disconnections. It happens, stuff happens to your computer and connection, it's not always your fault, but you're always left behind when you log back on. If GW could implement some way to reinstate a dropped player from, say, a HoH hold, that would be awesome. Let's say the player logs back on after dropping from a pvp game, should they get a chance to get back on the boat the next round? Of course you'd close all means of exploitation, force the character to maintain the same character, skillbar, attributes, items, refund points, et cetera.
As for my final concern and most controversial, game balance. Just one thing, really. Is it possible to maintain balance while somewhat making the guild lord less easy to "gank"?
Well those are my more important and pressing concerns, in a nutshell. There's not much more to desire, but if you think about it what keeps people playing a game is change. Stir things up, play with balance, force active players to adapt, or fail.
Tuna
Quote:
Originally Posted by MSecorsky
Although I meant the original comment to be more toungue-in-cheek than anything,
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Quote:
I'm going to have to follow up and ask why you have the requirement to be able to use enchantments/hexes effectively against something which specifically targets those? Makes no sense. If you go against a team that uses various protections against physical damage, do you only consider it beating them if you do so with physical damage? Sure, you may want to use enchantments/hexes by your definition of 'effectively', but too bad. |
Basically, if there is no viable counter, the skill is overpowered.
As for observer mode, I too see problems with discovering too much about others builds. (or to easily) With or without time delays you can have people sitting around to find out who the prot monk is and which skills they run etc. which could cause problems down the road. We'll have to wait to see how its implemented though.
TheGreatBoo
Well, not really a suggestion or bug reports. However, I've loved this game since beta, and I still love it now despite the vast majority of griefers and noobs in the community. Theres nothing you can do to improve the community, it takes individual effort. I would like to say though, that you have built a solid and fun game, and I hope to see what the future brings. Keep up the good work, and thank you for creating an excellent game.
Actually though after thinking for a minute or two, I do have one question, if it hasn't been answered already: When can we expect observer mode? Is the staff planning on releasing it in an update, or are we going to have to wait for an expansion? Thanks.
Actually though after thinking for a minute or two, I do have one question, if it hasn't been answered already: When can we expect observer mode? Is the staff planning on releasing it in an update, or are we going to have to wait for an expansion? Thanks.
Divinitys Creature
Quote:
Originally Posted by Gaile Gray
You know, honestly, no one is considered a "minority," vocal or otherwise. We will definitely remain open to input from anyone, no matter his or her playstyle. It's our intention and our commitment to continue to hone Guild Wars to be the game that people want to play. No matter who they are. No matter where they are. No matter how they want to play. Period.
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Makkert
Most of it sounds great. But it still remains so vague to me. Even a remote ETA (expected time of arrival) such as 'sep 05' would be nice.
FengShuiBundi
This post is stolen from Blackace!
Can you please implement the following? It would make PvE a worthwhile endeavor.
Can you please implement the following? It would make PvE a worthwhile endeavor.
Quote:
Originally Posted by Blackace
Get rid of Pre-searing Ascalon. It's worthless, has nothing to do with the rest of the game, and being it's the only source of PvP embedded in PvE content you give false hope to new players.
For the rest of the game it's simple. PvE is supposed to teach players the basics for PvP and prepare them for it. The current game fails wonderfully at this, so I decided to take a sip of Mountain Dew and come up with something Anet never could see. A.) Every mob in PvE has a monk Boss. Maybe 2 just to make sure idiots never advance. The reasoning here is simple: The parts that give most PvE players trouble are ones with monks. Most groups load up on damage, bring a monk along, forget about Necros and Mesmers and run through everything. Here's a big hint: give those classes a defined scenario where the fit and they will be accepted into parties more. You also get a 2 for 1, since groups that are horrible will take forever to make it through. Learning how to disable monks is fundamental. Give the monk bosses energy management like Channeling, Energy Drain, ViM, Bonneti's, or whatever. B.) I want a ranger like creature that spams nothing but rituals and posions everyone. Make sure he has Oath shot. This will teach players that in PvP only one thing matters: Fertile Season and Nature's Renewal. Make sure this monster is designed extra carefully to mimic real life Tombs morons: spams natures renewal even if his Monks and Ele mob teammates have enchantments up-what does he care, NR rocks. Spam fertile season even when they are winning the battle, it builds character. Drop Frozen Soil asap no matter who dies. Arcane mimicry Greater Conflag and drop it along with Winter for extra fun. Enchantment loaded builds go to hell. Necro hexes lose having any point in PvE. Yay. No more mass monk builds loaded with bonds and frontloaded energy management. You eliminate god knows how many builds for PvE but who cares? C.)A El/Mo smiter with boon+draw conditions+rof. This guy will rock everyone's face. He'll just beat any PuG PvE team senseless, not to mention he has a monk casting spell breaker on him. When that drops to the inevitable NR spam from the ranger he just loses one spell to diversion and keeps on ticking. Rock on. He also has Ward against Foes because he's an asshole. Cheers! D.)Please include a mesmer with nothing but energy denial,diversion spam and wards. Energy denial rocks. Make sure he has Wards to just screw the Fire Eles over(you know, they are the only ones that matter in PvE) and has all kind of non-hex energy denial. This includes Sigs, Energy drain, maybe Tap, and even Signet of Humilty because he rocks. E.) For safe measure, a necro that does nothing but cast Tainted Flesh and Putrid Explosion. No explanation needed for this guy, if you cant see his ownage I feel bad for you. This group will train every PvE player to get used to PvP. Fighting under these conditions, who can't get better? Wait, whats that you say? This build will just make PvE lose a lot builds, and turn everything into monotonous gameplay? *shrug* |
sidepocket13
i love this game! i am 75% pve and 25% pvp. not hard core at all, if i lose or die its no big deal. I have never been into tombs because i KNOW i will get flamed for being a noob, and i am ok with that. my suggestions are as follows.
more in depth skill description
more character design
larger scale battles for both pvp and pve, i know this will probably cause bandwith issues but i figured i would throwit in there. (city seiges?)
re-vamped trade system/auction hall
preview of dyed armor before actually commiting to it (spent a ton of $ on dye for my monk to dye her sacred armor only to find out just the fringe changes color)
toggle for capes
more enemies then scorpions!
and write Gwen back in somehow!
all minor things, i know, but like i said before i love this game!
more in depth skill description
more character design
larger scale battles for both pvp and pve, i know this will probably cause bandwith issues but i figured i would throwit in there. (city seiges?)
re-vamped trade system/auction hall
preview of dyed armor before actually commiting to it (spent a ton of $ on dye for my monk to dye her sacred armor only to find out just the fringe changes color)
toggle for capes
more enemies then scorpions!
and write Gwen back in somehow!
all minor things, i know, but like i said before i love this game!
tlr1293
- take away the TRADE channel - implement an auction house. This would create a true value system and not some fake "c/o is 150k". Items sell for what people are truely willing to pay.
- leave the PvE storyline in place BUT, allow for randomness AND the storyline to co-exist. This takes some explaining:
... I have not done "Quest to Do Something", so I am the INVITER of a PUG - we do the instanced, monster-set storyline version of the quest.
OR
... I have done the quest and if I am the INVITER, the instanced area we dive into is randomized for area monsters, bosses, locations, numbers, rewards, placement, etc...
... the randomized area would need to provide some incentive for us to 'explore it' right? A 'Dungeon of Extreme Southern Shiverpeak Style Difficulty' in every area, location randomized (your party must locate it to enter) and hidden. Why would you go there? to receive 1, yes 1 ATTRIBUTE point for completion. "Players would end up with hundreds of points! That sucks!" Not really, remember - very hard - very very hard - die and out, no revive - randomized monsters (not same always) making it difficult to plan for - very long quest with no set path to follow - and you had to FIND it first, didn't you? - you might even have to carry a seed...to make a bridge...to get to the sword...that is the only weapon that kills the griffon...so you can get into the castle...where the prisoners are...who has a spy amongst them...alerting his minions to your presence...bringing a horde of undead to your location unlike any seen before...where having the high-ground will help, etc, etc, etc...
That's it. "Thats it?" Yes, that's it - Randomize the explorable areas for players that have already been through there and control the inviting, with a very hidden entrance to an uber-difficult dungeon area that has many a randomized monster very difficult to plan skills around while having to possibly complete a randomized quest where the completion is a reward of 1 attribute point.
Why Attribute points? I'm level 20 and I wish I had 5 more for my Elem-Marks-Beast Ranger with Purple, Green and Orange Druid's Armor (looks cooler than you might think).
I do think that randomness (which is a quality of some other online games) combined with the good story, combined with a bit of suprise, intrigue, and difficulty, will win the hearts of many.
A.Net, NC.Soft, whatever you wish to be called...we know it will take a while and would cost us money as an upgrade in the stores, but if you at all understand this suggestion (to the rant above), you would get to work on it because THAT will win you 'Game of the Century' honors AND flood your servers so you have to upgrade and cause many more 'err=7' problems (unless you rename the error) and raise heck with the PvP'ers (because many saw the coolness of the new PvE part of the game and said: I'M IN!).
- leave the PvE storyline in place BUT, allow for randomness AND the storyline to co-exist. This takes some explaining:
... I have not done "Quest to Do Something", so I am the INVITER of a PUG - we do the instanced, monster-set storyline version of the quest.
OR
... I have done the quest and if I am the INVITER, the instanced area we dive into is randomized for area monsters, bosses, locations, numbers, rewards, placement, etc...
... the randomized area would need to provide some incentive for us to 'explore it' right? A 'Dungeon of Extreme Southern Shiverpeak Style Difficulty' in every area, location randomized (your party must locate it to enter) and hidden. Why would you go there? to receive 1, yes 1 ATTRIBUTE point for completion. "Players would end up with hundreds of points! That sucks!" Not really, remember - very hard - very very hard - die and out, no revive - randomized monsters (not same always) making it difficult to plan for - very long quest with no set path to follow - and you had to FIND it first, didn't you? - you might even have to carry a seed...to make a bridge...to get to the sword...that is the only weapon that kills the griffon...so you can get into the castle...where the prisoners are...who has a spy amongst them...alerting his minions to your presence...bringing a horde of undead to your location unlike any seen before...where having the high-ground will help, etc, etc, etc...
That's it. "Thats it?" Yes, that's it - Randomize the explorable areas for players that have already been through there and control the inviting, with a very hidden entrance to an uber-difficult dungeon area that has many a randomized monster very difficult to plan skills around while having to possibly complete a randomized quest where the completion is a reward of 1 attribute point.
Why Attribute points? I'm level 20 and I wish I had 5 more for my Elem-Marks-Beast Ranger with Purple, Green and Orange Druid's Armor (looks cooler than you might think).
I do think that randomness (which is a quality of some other online games) combined with the good story, combined with a bit of suprise, intrigue, and difficulty, will win the hearts of many.
A.Net, NC.Soft, whatever you wish to be called...we know it will take a while and would cost us money as an upgrade in the stores, but if you at all understand this suggestion (to the rant above), you would get to work on it because THAT will win you 'Game of the Century' honors AND flood your servers so you have to upgrade and cause many more 'err=7' problems (unless you rename the error) and raise heck with the PvP'ers (because many saw the coolness of the new PvE part of the game and said: I'M IN!).
INFERNO2K
Enable all skills for PVP.
This game was not ment to be a grinding game.
Why should I put in 50-100 hours trying to unlock elite skills and all skills to compete with other players in PVP if I just picked up this game off the shelves.
This game was not ment to be a grinding game.
Why should I put in 50-100 hours trying to unlock elite skills and all skills to compete with other players in PVP if I just picked up this game off the shelves.
Xellos
Quote:
To answer your first point...I don't feel there is anything wrong with this game other than the majority of the people that play it. I can find hundreds upon hundreds of little things that I enjoy about the game. It makes the little things that I don't enjoy pale in comparison.... To the point where little crap that alot of you complain about isn't even worth mentioning. I don't feel the need to nerf builds because I can't counter it...I don't feel the need to complain endlessly about not getting updates every week....I don't feel the need to bitch and moan about nerfing....I don't feel the need to whine about unfair skills.....because this game is the most balanced fair game I've ever had the pleasure of picking up. |
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Gaile, let me just repeat this again: There is no "problem" with Nature's Renewal or Spirit Groups. Its just that many people are not good enough at the game to beat it, thus they want it nerfed. PS- My spirit team just got beaten. Booya, its not invinvcible. |
Wha?
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P.S.: The other day I was playing Starcraft and caught 2 n0 members in a pub on U.S. East. Gee, looks like that intensive PvP testing in the alpha is going *so* well. |
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It would be nice to actually SEE these people being caught and judged for the violations of the EULA. Once this is in place then people will think twice before they commit a violation toward others. |
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Cranking up the quality of loot that drops is a neccessary change. Changes to 'farming' so far have all been nerfs that made it increasingly difficult for people to acquire good equipment for their characters, when what should have happened is a raising of the quality of loot across the board. You see lots of botting and boring farming runs because there are very few areas in the game that still have reasonable value/time ratios. I assure you that if people could make comparable amounts of money simply running missions with their friends, they would. |
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As far as accessability issues, there are two serious ones at the moment. First, weapon upgrades. They are only available from rare weapons, which don't drop with any frequency, and even then it's unlikely that you'll pull an actually good upgrade. This would likely be addressed by changes to the drop rate. The other is collector items. There are still several important PvP-neccessary items that are not available from collectors - 15%>50 swords, hammers, and axes, 20/20 healing staves, strength shields - that need to be added still. Putting those into the game would allow PvE characters to be competitive with PvP characters. |
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Let Izzy do his job. |
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Just get it in already. It's an invaluable tool that's a neccessary step towards making this game more competitive. |
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Is it because of replayability, grinding, or some other factor I am unaware of? I am also very concerned by the lack of marketing of the game outside of the hardcore game magazines. I earned my Degree in Marketing in 1974, and although I have not used my knowledge commercially in a few years, the basics till hold true. I've seen no MSM advertising that would appeal to the casual gamer who doesn't want to play their kids Xbox or Playstation. Even my Daughter, who is an avid PC gamer, has been hesitant to commit to the game because it hasn't caught her or her friends attention. And they are PC gamers, not just console fixated. |
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Never a truer word spoken, and they removed the only counter, Unnatural Signet is gone.. nothing can be done about NR... it completely disables a mesmer who might aswell be carrying a banner saying interupt me!! and it strips all enchants of anything within 200yrds!! its crazed. |
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btw gaile look at the overwhelming majority of players against the increase in skill gain and faction increase.. It is an amazing outcry. A.Net needs to take notice of the massive "we love grind" movement. btw gaile show this video at the workplace tomorrow http://www.gamespot.com/pc/rpg/guil...ew_6101982.html Does Jeff still work at anet? |
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they aren't doing it to be competitive, they are doing it because they don't like to lose, both in the arenas and on missions. |
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I've mentioned most of my ideas elsewhere, but here's a more of a "state of the game" sort of big-picture, philosophical view. |
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As for my final concern and most controversial, game balance. Just one thing, really. Is it possible to maintain balance while somewhat making the guild lord less easy to "gank"? |
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The additions will include new quests, new monsters, new items and new accelerated sources of XP and rare items. |
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With this in mind, we have been testing a variety of playbalance adjustments internally for some weeks now. |
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. We will try, when possible, to implement most playbalance changes immediately at the start of a new ladder season. |
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We are also looking into improvements to individual PvP maps, GvG matchmaking for high-rated teams, and ways to ease the burden of needing exactly 8 players to GvG. |
Awell so much for my post. There's alot of things I believe that Anet should take priority on, but there are others where you just have to take time, since it's so delicate. But hey, whatever, the balls in their court. The customers will be waiting.
ozz
Quote:
Originally Posted by Gaile Gray
Please share your thoughts. We are listening and we want to hear what you have to say.
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However, I would like to clarify, should the "State of the Game" Letter originate from Anet, NCSoft I am personally more interested in reading about the "State of the Game" from a development standpoint
What is Anet, NCSoft preparing in response to all the suggestions which are by now, at this time, superflous and over abundant.
It even appears this thread has gone the way of the DoDo Bird and degenerating into a partial suggestion thread and kindling flame fest.
What is Anet planning to do regarding PvE, regarding the apparent overpopulation of 'creatures' obviously intended to prevent item and gold farming but, due to the effectiveness of certain skills, is ineffective?
There was a time, in April when I began playing GW, that drops of all kind were abundant, gold was easy to come by, and there never was lack for any character I had I was always assured of finding a great weapon through normal game play. Now, the solution is to empoverish the game world and encourage farming, especially 'sweatshop style' farming.
Regarding PvP, what are Anet's plans? Regarding Guild Halls, Guilds, Storage, item drops, trade, and every aspect of this game we have become accustomed and use regularly?
I am interested in hearing from Anet, from you Gaile. Everything else is dribble and pablum moderated to the tone of "I want this, I want that."
Galatea
ArenaNet,
Despite some of the frustrations of this game (economy, botters, traders), I think your team is doing a great job with the game and communicating with your players. My commentary on the items mentioned in your State of the Game Letter:
Ascended Content
I am very excited to hear that more content will be added for ascended players and on. New quests, monsters, items, etc.. are all definitely needed, especially for those who have finished the game multiple times. Although, I personally think advertising the "Sorrow's Furnace" update as a Summer Update was a little misleading, because it appears that it will be available towards the end of the summer, rather than during it.
Character Advancement
Also good to hear that faction, XP, etc.. can be acquired faster. It eliminates the 'grind' that people complain about -- but also, it means that people will be completing the game faster, and what will they do when the content runs out?
PvP Playbalance
Thank you ArenaNet.
I don't have much comment on observer mode, since I am not sure what to expect.. but I am looking forward to it, because it sounds like a cool, new addition to the game.
----------------
As for things that I and my guild members are hoping ArenaNet will implement in the near future:
1. An Auction House System
2. Questable Armors & Novelty Items
3. Practice Matches in the Guild Halls
4. Someway to write comments about those on our friends list (to remember why they are on there)
5. More information about guild members (where are they & what district)
I also understand that the 'nerfs' made to areas regarding farming had to be done because of the botting situation, but it has made some upset because they either a) are in need of the in-game money or b) actually enjoy farming. I remember how the game was before the flooding of bots, and I miss how those areas used to be. I also liked secret 'alternate pathways' in the game, such as a certain one in the Kryta mission that was hard to get through, but now you can't even walk there because a big tree was implemented to block the path.
Anyway, I hope that ArenaNet will be able to keep and continue making the game enjoyable for all us players, as well as rid the game of bots.. but I know it will be a difficult process. Many of the games that have been around for quite a while also have problems with botting and selling of in-game currency, and they appear not to have fixed their economies either.
Despite some of the frustrations of this game (economy, botters, traders), I think your team is doing a great job with the game and communicating with your players. My commentary on the items mentioned in your State of the Game Letter:
Ascended Content
I am very excited to hear that more content will be added for ascended players and on. New quests, monsters, items, etc.. are all definitely needed, especially for those who have finished the game multiple times. Although, I personally think advertising the "Sorrow's Furnace" update as a Summer Update was a little misleading, because it appears that it will be available towards the end of the summer, rather than during it.
Character Advancement
Also good to hear that faction, XP, etc.. can be acquired faster. It eliminates the 'grind' that people complain about -- but also, it means that people will be completing the game faster, and what will they do when the content runs out?
PvP Playbalance
Quote:
and ways to ease the burden of needing exactly 8 players to GvG. |
I don't have much comment on observer mode, since I am not sure what to expect.. but I am looking forward to it, because it sounds like a cool, new addition to the game.
----------------
As for things that I and my guild members are hoping ArenaNet will implement in the near future:
1. An Auction House System
2. Questable Armors & Novelty Items
3. Practice Matches in the Guild Halls
4. Someway to write comments about those on our friends list (to remember why they are on there)
5. More information about guild members (where are they & what district)
I also understand that the 'nerfs' made to areas regarding farming had to be done because of the botting situation, but it has made some upset because they either a) are in need of the in-game money or b) actually enjoy farming. I remember how the game was before the flooding of bots, and I miss how those areas used to be. I also liked secret 'alternate pathways' in the game, such as a certain one in the Kryta mission that was hard to get through, but now you can't even walk there because a big tree was implemented to block the path.
Anyway, I hope that ArenaNet will be able to keep and continue making the game enjoyable for all us players, as well as rid the game of bots.. but I know it will be a difficult process. Many of the games that have been around for quite a while also have problems with botting and selling of in-game currency, and they appear not to have fixed their economies either.
Xellos
Quote:
Originally Posted by INFERNO2K
Enable all skills for PVP.
This game was not ment to be a grinding game. Why should I put in 50-100 hours trying to unlock elite skills and all skills to compete with other players in PVP if I just picked up this game off the shelves. |
One thing I believe is pathetic is that they fail to address the PVP gametypes. They are not adding new PVP zones, they are not making Arena any more credible, and their not making Tombs any more Prestigeous. Meaning overall, PVP still sucks as far as what your playing goes if it isn't GvG. Your adding 2 PVE zones, and 0 PVP zones. For god sakes, can't you at least do a half quarter pounder job by re-introducing the CTF zone? You revamped it so that it became some hated kill by the clock map. God forbid competition arena should be won by anything other then KILLING.
primal98
*ahem* I can live without awesome drops, I can live with forced explaration(aka I cant go everywhere I want)... but what I think the game needs is more depth in the maps. PVP needs many more arenas to battle (CTF FFA etc), and PvE needs more depth and reason in the quests. I mean there are so many regions that are never used for squat, add more quests! I hate mission towns, where the only reason is to get the next mission. There should be more mini quests/games with cool rewards PvP should also have quests(sort like in KOTOR where you would fight ppl for money at the beginning), where after you complete them you are thrown into an arena with other ppl for a final duel :P
~prime
~prime
INFERNO2K
Add more character slots.
Dids
What I'd like (mostly from an rpg-ish perspective).
1- Greater diversity in character appearance. Even with Dye and some mistmatched armor, my character just looks too much like the other characters.
2- In terms of items, I'd like the runes we find and what not to be worth something. Not a ton, but fixed values so that sup. rune isn't selling for 25g. I'm not doing farming runs trying to get 100K, but it's an odd experience when I get that rare gold drop and it ends up being of no greater value than your avg. armor drop.
3- Minor nit- but I have far more indentity with Alesia and Stephen than Devona and Menhlo. I'd much rather have the standard henches available on the later missions. I feel like I'm losing my friends and gaining these new people who I don't care about.
1- Greater diversity in character appearance. Even with Dye and some mistmatched armor, my character just looks too much like the other characters.
2- In terms of items, I'd like the runes we find and what not to be worth something. Not a ton, but fixed values so that sup. rune isn't selling for 25g. I'm not doing farming runs trying to get 100K, but it's an odd experience when I get that rare gold drop and it ends up being of no greater value than your avg. armor drop.
3- Minor nit- but I have far more indentity with Alesia and Stephen than Devona and Menhlo. I'd much rather have the standard henches available on the later missions. I feel like I'm losing my friends and gaining these new people who I don't care about.