Can narrative design in MMOs ever be truly great?
...ch are the backbone of most MMO storytelling, often feel like a series of disconnected tasks rather than a cohesive narrative. Players may find themselves jumping from one quest giver to the next, completing a series of objectives without a...
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MMOs and the fine line between fun and obligation.
... their peers. This pressure can lead to players feeling like they are "working" in the game, rather than truly enjoying the experience. The Burnout Epidemic The relentless nature of daily quests, combined with the social pressure t...
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How accessibility changed the landscape — for better or worse.
...ld lead to a stagnation in the genre, as developers focus more on catering to casual players rather than pushing the boundaries of what is possible in an MMO. This could result in a lack of innovation and a decreased appeal for players who ...
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Why standing still might say more than you think
AFK Culture: Is It Hurting or Helping MMOs? Why Standing Still Might Say More Than You Think In the ever-evolving world of Massively Multiplayer Online (MMO) games, the concept of "AFK" (Away From Keyboard) has become a topic of intense d...
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Which games are doing it best, and why players love it.
...cessful player housing systems are those that are seamlessly integrated into the game world, rather than feeling like a separate or isolated feature. Games like Elder Scrolls Online and Final Fantasy XIV have achieved this by placing player...
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The pros and cons of skill-based progression systems.
...d progression system is the unparalleled level of player agency and customization it offers. Rather than being pigeonholed into a specific role or playstyle, players can freely mix and match abilities, skills, and combat techniques to suit ...
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What keeps us collecting — and spending?
... and desirability of those items is heightened. Additionally, the fear of being perceived as "less than" by their in-game social circles can compel players to keep up with the virtual Joneses, leading them to make purchases they might not ...
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Why modern crafting systems are more than just filler content.
The Evolution of MMO Crafting: From Tedious to Satisfying Why Modern Crafting Systems Are More Than Just Filler Content In the early days of massively multiplayer online (MMO) games, crafting systems were often seen as little more than te...
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Which is more fun, strategic, and future-proof?
...e detached and automated, as players focus more on ability rotations and resource management rather than direct input. However, this can also contribute to a more strategic and contemplative gameplay experience, appealing to players who pre...
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A look back at one of the most unique MMOs ever made
... The Secret World's gameplay was also a significant departure from the standard MMO formula. Rather than the traditional class-based character progression, the game embraced a more open-ended and flexible system. Players could freely switch...
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