Saturday, 30 May 2015

Feature Test - Class Switching


Character classes have been a common convention in RPGs and MMOs since the beginning. However, there has been little deviation from the standard "one character can only have one class" formula. Major MMOs that have been released since 2010 like Wildstar, Elder Scrolls Online, Guild Wars 2, TERA, Star Wars The Old Republic, Rift, and Dragon Nest have all followed the standard formula. 
In this post, I would like to take a look at the advantages and disadvantages of having a class switching feature and provide some examples of its successful implementation.

Monday, 18 May 2015

Realism in Games - Equipment Skins


Equipment skins, transmogrification, costume items - this game feature goes by many names. It is when an equip-able item, that has its own look when worn, changes its appearance while keeping the benefits of wearing the item. In other words, if you want to combine the protection of full plate armor and the fashion of a party dress you like, which would be impossible in real life, you can do so with this game feature. Here are some reasons for why I think this is a great feature to have in RPGs and especially MMOs even though it may be unrealistic.